In the Bible, “contention” refers to a disagreement or conflict, often characterized by strife, rivalry, or quarrelsome behavior. It is frequently noted as a negative trait, warning against the divisions it can create within relationships and communities (James 3:16, Proverbs 17:14).
Scripture
10 By insolence comes nothing but strife,
but with those who take advice is wisdom.
11 Wealth gained hastily will dwindle,
but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.
12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick,
but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life.
Contention in the Bible: Meaning Explained
Contention in the Bible largely serves as a cautionary theme regarding the destructive nature of conflict and division within human relationships. The verses in James 3:16 highlight that “where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.” This underscores the notion that contention breeds disorder and can lead not only to personal turmoil but also to larger societal chaos. Similarly, Proverbs 17:14 warns that “the beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention before it be meddled with.” This metaphor emphasizes the idea that, much like allowing water to spill uncontrollably, once contention begins, it can escalate quickly, inundating both personal relationships and community harmony.
Thus, the biblical perspective on contention extends beyond mere quarrels to encompass the moral and spiritual implications of maintaining peace and unity. Ephesians 4:3 calls believers to “endeavor to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace,” suggesting that striving for unity is instrumental to living a life that reflects Christ’s love and character. Through these teachings, the Bible advocates for reconciliation, patience, and forgiveness as counterweights to contention. By prioritizing harmony over rivalry, believers can create healthier relationships and communities, reflecting the peace that is at the heart of Christian teachings.
The concept of contention in Scripture also finds resonance in the warnings against pride and ego, which can serve as catalysts for disputes and divisions among individuals. In such contexts, the Bible frequently addresses the importance of humility and the recognition of one’s limitations. For instance, the Book of Proverbs underscores the dangers of being overly assertive and self-seeking, suggesting that contention often arises when individuals place their desires above the well-being of others. By promoting humility, these passages encourage believers to seek common ground rather than provoke conflict, emphasizing that genuine relationships thrive on respect and shared understanding.
Moreover, the theme of contention reflects the broader narrative of God’s desire for His followers to live in harmony. The Scriptures present numerous instances where division is counterproductive to the intended purpose of community. For example, in situations involving church unity, believers are urged to resolve disputes amicably, recalling Christ’s teachings on love and forgiveness. This instruction not only fosters healthy interpersonal dynamics but also serves to model the unity that God desires among His people. Thus, contention is not merely a social issue but rather a spiritual one, where overcoming disagreements is integral to fulfilling the call to love and serve one another as representatives of Christ in the world.
The Nature of Human Conflict
Contention in the Bible often reflects the inherent conflicts that arise from human relationships. It highlights the struggles between individuals, communities, and even nations, emphasizing the reality of differing opinions, desires, and ambitions. This aspect of contention serves as a reminder of the fallen nature of humanity and the need for reconciliation and understanding among people.
The Call for Unity and Peace
Another significant meaning of contention in the Bible is the call for unity and peace among believers. The scriptures encourage followers to seek harmony and to resolve disputes amicably, promoting a spirit of cooperation rather than division. This theme underscores the importance of love and humility in overcoming contention, urging individuals to prioritize their relationships with one another and with God.
Spiritual Warfare and Divine Conflict
Contention can also be understood in the context of spiritual warfare, where it represents the struggle between good and evil. This broader meaning illustrates the ongoing battle that believers face against spiritual forces that seek to create division and strife. In this light, contention serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance, prayer, and reliance on God’s strength to overcome the challenges posed by spiritual adversaries.
How to Foster Peace and Unity in Christ
Fostering peace and unity in Christ is a beautiful journey that begins in our hearts and extends to our relationships with others. As we immerse ourselves in Scripture, we find that Jesus calls us to love one another deeply, just as He loves us (John 13:34-35). This means actively seeking to understand and embrace our differences, rather than allowing them to divide us. Start by practicing empathy—listen to others with an open heart, and strive to see the world through their eyes. Engage in prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to guide your interactions and help you cultivate a spirit of reconciliation. Remember, unity doesn’t mean uniformity; it’s about celebrating the diverse body of Christ and recognizing that each person brings unique gifts to the table. By extending grace, forgiveness, and kindness, we can create a community that reflects the love of Christ, drawing others to Him in the process. Let’s commit to being peacemakers, for as Matthew 5:9 reminds us, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
Bible References to Contention in Scripture:
Proverbs 17:14-15: 14 The beginning of strife is like letting out water, so quit before the quarrel breaks out.
15 He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous are both alike an abomination to the Lord.
Proverbs 18:6-8: 6 A fool’s lips walk into a fight, and his mouth invites a beating.
7 A fool’s mouth is his ruin, and his lips are a snare to his soul.
8 The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels; they go down into the inner parts of the body.
Proverbs 22:10-12: 10 Drive out a scoffer, and strife will go out,
and quarreling and abuse will cease.
11 He who loves purity of heart, and whose speech is gracious, will have the king as his friend.
12 The eyes of the Lord keep watch over knowledge, but he overthrows the words of the traitor.
Proverbs 26:20-22: 20 For lack of wood the fire goes out,
and where there is no whisperer, quarreling ceases.
21 As charcoal to hot embers and wood to fire, so is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife.
22 The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels; they go down into the inner parts of the body.
1 Corinthians 1:10-12: 10 I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.
11 For it has been reported to me by Chloe’s people that there is quarreling among you, my brothers.
12 What I mean is that each one of you says, “I follow Paul,” or “I follow Apollos,” or “I follow Cephas,” or “I follow Christ.”
1 Corinthians 3:3-5: 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?
4 For when one says, “I follow Paul,” and another, “I follow Apollos,” are you not being merely human?
5 What then is Apollos? What is Paul? Servants through whom you believed, as the Lord assigned to each.
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.
Philippians 2:3-4: 3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.
4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
James 3:14-16: 14 But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth.
15 This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.
16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.
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.
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.