Why Argue?

I say this in order that no one may delude you with beguiling speech.

Colossians 2:4 (RSV)

A non-believer, who counted people of various denominations among his friends, spent most of his time discussing the Bible and asking questions about it. Depending on the denomination of the person he was speaking with, the answers always differed doctrinally. Even when there were points of agreement, a doctrinal nuance invariably remained—which is entirely natural. One day, he decided to join an interdenominational church. There, he found a mixture of doctrines, almost all of them intertwined with one another in some way.

When discussing the Christian faith in a group setting, he did nothing but argue with others. He imagined he knew everything about the various religions thanks to his friends. Yet, he misled those who lacked a deep understanding of the Word or a solid faith. This often happens when one is not deeply rooted in the Word of God: repeating what one has heard without grasping its true meaning. This is precisely the point Paul addressed in his teachings; he sought to protect Christians from the trap of fruitless arguments.

You have likely encountered a believer from another denomination trying to prove that you are wrong and that they hold the correct answer. No Christian should seek to compare themselves to others to demonstrate any sort of superiority. Christ has called us to bear with one another and to love one another. Faith does not seek controversy to prove its worth; it strengthens others so that everyone may continue their spiritual growth. Do not argue about your faith or your sanctification, for God Himself knows that this is a process that will only be completed at the end of our lives in this corruptible body.

May the grace and peace of God be with you.