Quarrels and strife are recurring themes in the Bible, often depicted as destructive forces that disrupt harmony and fellowship among individuals and communities. The Scriptures provide insight into the origins, manifestations, and consequences of such discord, as well as guidance on how to address and resolve conflicts in a manner that honors God.

Origins of Quarrels and Strife

The Bible identifies the root of quarrels and strife as stemming from the sinful nature of humanity. James 4:1-2 asks, "What causes conflicts and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from the passions at war within you? You crave what you do not have; you kill and covet, but are unable to obtain it. You quarrel and fight." This passage highlights the internal desires and selfish ambitions that lead to external conflicts. The sinful nature, characterized by pride, envy, and greed, fuels disputes and divisions.

Manifestations of Quarrels and Strife

Quarrels and strife manifest in various forms, including verbal disputes, physical altercations, and long-standing feuds. Proverbs 17:14 warns, "Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out." This imagery illustrates how minor disagreements can escalate into significant conflicts if not addressed promptly. The Bible also speaks to the destructive power of the tongue, as seen in Proverbs 18:21 : "Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit." Words can inflame tensions and perpetuate strife, leading to broken relationships and communities.

Consequences of Quarrels and Strife

The consequences of quarrels and strife are far-reaching, affecting individuals, families, and entire communities. Galatians 5:19-21 lists "hostility, strife, jealousy, rage, rivalries, divisions, factions" among the works of the flesh, warning that "those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." Strife disrupts the unity and peace that God desires for His people, hindering their witness to the world. It can lead to bitterness, resentment, and even violence, as seen in the account of Cain and Abel (Genesis 4:1-8), where jealousy and anger culminated in the first murder.

Biblical Guidance for Resolving Quarrels and Strife

The Bible offers wisdom for resolving quarrels and strife, emphasizing the importance of humility, forgiveness, and love. Ephesians 4:31-32 instructs, "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you." Believers are called to pursue peace and reconciliation, following the example of Christ, who made peace through His sacrifice on the cross (Colossians 1:20).

Matthew 18:15-17 provides a practical approach to conflict resolution within the church, advising individuals to address grievances privately first, then with witnesses if necessary, and finally involving the church if the issue remains unresolved. This process underscores the importance of addressing conflicts directly and with the aim of restoration.

The Role of Wisdom and Peacemaking

Wisdom plays a crucial role in preventing and resolving quarrels. James 3:17-18 describes the wisdom from above as "first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap the fruit of righteousness." The pursuit of godly wisdom leads to peace and righteousness, contrasting with the chaos and disorder of strife.

Peacemaking is a blessed endeavor, as Jesus declared in Matthew 5:9 , "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God." Believers are encouraged to actively seek peace and pursue it (1 Peter 3:11), reflecting the character of God and fostering unity within the body of Christ.