Patient, Not Arguing

“Anyone who teaches anything different … is simply ignorant … with a craze for questioning everything and arguing about words. All that can come of this is jealousy, contention, abuse, and wicked mistrust of one another; and unending disputes.”—1 Timothy 6:3–5 TJB

Paul warned Timothy to be aware of problems he might encounter in his ministry and interpersonal relationships. He would discover that some people simply love to argue and cause problems. Instead of building others up and focusing on the Gospel, they engage in “unending disputes” and have “a craze for questioning everything.”

They may think they have good intentions, but Paul said their approach is the result of jealousy and “wicked mistrust of one another.” They stir up controversy in ways that disrupt the unity of the body of Christ, split relationships, and weaken our testimony.

God’s people are to cultivate an attitude of humility, realizing that “we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it” (v. 7). Instead of arguing and looking for reasons for disputes, we are to be gentle and patient, with a desire to be content.

We should not be driven by selfish gain but have the attitude of a servant. We are not to be argumentative but should be motivated out of love. We’re to be instruments of healing and reconciliation, always pointing people to Jesus.

Don’t be caught up in selfish pursuits or dominated by a doubting, divisive spirit. Always seek first the Kingdom of God. Don’t seek to tear others down with arguments but be an instrument of peace and forgiveness.

Reflection Question: What action steps can you take to cultivate a spirit of humility this week?