04/09/2025
In the Bible, contention is a negative and destructive form of strife, marked by arguments, quarrels, and a quarrelsome attitude. It is identified as a "work of the flesh" that destroys peace and unity within relationships, families, and the church.
Causes of Contention
The Bible identifies several causes of sinful contention:
đź“ŤPride and selfishness: The book of Proverbs states, "By pride comes nothing but strife" (Proverbs 13:10). Selfish ambition and arrogance are often at the root of disputes, as individuals prioritize their own interests over the needs of others (Philippians 2:3).
📍Envy and jealousy: James's epistle explains that conflicts arise from "passions at war within you," including envy and the craving for what others have (James 4:1–2).
đź“ŤAnger and wrath: A short temper is a major source of conflict. "A hot-tempered man stirs up strife," while someone who is slow to anger can calm a dispute (Proverbs 15:18).
đź“ŤFoolish talk: A fool's words can incite conflict and lead to bigger problems. Proverbs warns that "a fool's lips enter into contention" (Proverbs 18:6) and that a contentious person "kindles strife" (Proverbs 26:21).
Consequences of Contention
The Scriptures highlight the harmful results of a contentious spirit:
❓️Division: Contention creates factions and divisions within the body of Christ, hindering its mission and witness (1 Corinthians 1:10).
❓️Spiritual corruption: Where "jealousy and selfish ambition" exist, there is "confusion and every evil deed" (James 3:16).
❓️Broken relationships: Like a house divided against itself that cannot stand (Mark 3:25), contention can damage or destroy relationships between friends, family members, and married couples.
❓️Spiritual danger: As a work of the flesh, contention can jeopardize one's eternal life. Paul warned the Galatians that those who practice such things "will not inherit the kingdom of God" (Galatians 5:19–21).
Avoiding and Overcoming Contention
The Bible offers clear guidance on how to combat and avoid contention:
đź“Ś Pursue peace: God calls believers to be peacemakers and to "live at peace with everyone" whenever possible (Romans 12:18, Matthew 5:9).
đź“Ś Practice humility: Paul advises believers to do "nothing out of selfish ambition or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves" (Philippians 2:3).
đź“Ś Use gentle words: A gentle and soft answer can de-escalate a heated situation and prevent a full-blown quarrel from erupting (Proverbs 15:1).
📌 Walk in love: Love and forgiveness are central to resolving and overcoming disputes (Colossians 3:13–14). Love "does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful" (1 Corinthians 13:5, ESV).
đź“Ś Resist foolish disputes: Believers are instructed to avoid "foolish and ignorant disputes" about words or legalisms, as they "generate strife" (2 Timothy 2:23, Titus 3:9).
Righteous vs. Unrighteous Contention
While the Bible generally condemns a contentious spirit, there is a concept of "contending" for the faith. This is a righteous struggle for the truth, not a selfish quarrel. For example, the Epistle of Jude urges believers to "contend earnestly for the faith once for all delivered to the saints" (Jude 3). In this context, to contend is to defend the truth and sound doctrine, not to engage in personal, arrogant disputes.
