In the Bible, “strife” refers to conflict, contention, or struggle often resulting from disagreements or rivalry among individuals or groups (Proverbs 20:3; James 3:16). It is generally viewed negatively, as it can lead to discord and disrupt harmony within relationships and communities.
Meaning of Strife in the Bible
The concept of strife in the Bible serves as a critical commentary on the nature of human relationships and the consequences of discord. Scriptures such as Proverbs 20:3, which states, “It is an honor for a man to cease from strife; but every fool will be meddling,” remind believers of the importance of pursuing peace and maintaining integrity in their interactions. Strife often arises from pride and selfish ambition, as highlighted in James 3:16: “For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.” These verses underscore the notion that strife not only disrupts personal relationships but can also cascade into broader societal issues, causing division within communities and leading to a breakdown of trust and harmony.
Moreover, strife is often positioned in contrast to the ideals of unity, love, and reconciliation that the Bible promotes. For instance, in Matthew 5:9, Jesus declares, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God,” placing emphasis on the value of peace over conflict. The transformative message of the Gospel encourages believers to seek resolution and understanding a divine imperative to cultivate relationships marked by love, charity, and an unwavering commitment to peace.
In addition to the aforementioned insights, the Bible portrays strife as a universal human experience that often stems from deeper issues such as jealousy, anger, and lack of understanding. An examination of the narratives before they lead to irrevocable actions.
Additionally, the Apostle Paul frequently addressed the impact of strife on community life in his epistles. In his letters, he admonishes various congregations to avoid divisions and disputes, emphasizing that strife undermines the unity of the body of Christ. He uses imagery of the church as a single body with thereby reinforcing the necessity of striving for harmony and love within the body of Christ.
The Nature of Human Conflict
Strife in the Bible often reflects the inherent conflicts that arise from human relationships. It highlights that arise when people fail to live in harmony with one another.
The Call for Reconciliation
Strife also emphasizes the biblical call for reconciliation and peace. to pursue peace actively and to mend broken relationships.
The Spiritual Battle
Additionally, strife can be understood in the context of spiritual warfare. The Bible often portrays life as a battleground strength to overcome the challenges that threaten one’s faith and community.
How to Embrace Unity and Love in Christ
Embracing unity and love in Christ is a beautiful journey that begins in our hearts and extends to our relationships with others. As we reflect on passages like John 13:34-35, where Jesus commands us to love one another as He has loved us, we are reminded that our love is a testament to our faith. To cultivate this unity, we must actively listen to those around us, seek to understand their perspectives, and practice forgiveness, even when it’s challenging. It’s essential to remember that we are all part of the body of Christ, each with unique gifts and experiences that enrich our community. By prioritizing empathy and compassion, we can break down in a world that desperately needs it.
Bible References to the Meaning of Strife:
Proverbs 15:18-18: 18 A hot-tempered man stirs up strife,
but he who is slow to anger quiets contention.
Proverbs 17:14-14: 14 The beginning of strife is like letting out water, so quit before the quarrel breaks out.
Proverbs 20:3-3: 3 It is an honor for a man to keep aloof from strife,
but every fool will be quarreling.
Proverbs 28:25-25: 25 A greedy man stirs up strife,
but the one who trusts in the Lord will be enriched.
Galatians 5:19-21: 19 Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality,
20 idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions,
21 envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
James 4:1-3: 1 What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you?
2 You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask.
3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.
Philippians 2:14-14: 14 Do all things without grumbling or disputing,
Romans 13:13-13: 13 Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy.
1 Corinthians 3:3-3: 3 for you are still of the flesh. For while there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not of the flesh and behaving only in a human way?
2 Corinthians 12:20-20: 20 For I fear that perhaps when I come I may find you not as I wish, and that you may find me not as you wish—that perhaps there may be quarreling, jealousy, anger, hostility, slander, gossip, conceit, and disorder.
Titus 3:9-9: 9 But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless.
1 Timothy 6:3-5: 3 If anyone teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that accords with godliness,
4 he is puffed up with conceit and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy craving for controversy and for quarrels about words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions,
5 and constant friction among people who are depraved in mind and deprived of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain.
Matthew 5:9-9: 9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
Colossians 3:13-14: 13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.
14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.