The Violent Dispute
Jump to: SubtopicsTerms
Topical Encyclopedia
The term "The Violent Dispute" is not a specific phrase found in the Bible, but it can refer to several instances of intense conflict or confrontation recorded in the Scriptures. These disputes often highlight the human condition, the struggle between good and evil, and the consequences of sin. Below are some notable examples of violent disputes in the Bible, along with their theological implications and lessons.

1. Cain and Abel (Genesis 4:1-16):
The first recorded violent dispute in the Bible is the conflict between Cain and Abel, the sons of Adam and Eve. Cain, in a fit of jealousy and anger, murdered his brother Abel. This act of violence was the result of Cain's offering being rejected by God, while Abel's was accepted. The Lord said to Cain, "Why are you angry, and why has your countenance fallen? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you refuse to do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires you, but you must master it" (Genesis 4:6-7). This passage underscores the destructive power of unchecked sin and the importance of mastering one's sinful desires.

2. Korah's Rebellion (Numbers 16):
Korah, along with Dathan, Abiram, and 250 other leaders, challenged the authority of Moses and Aaron. This dispute was marked by a violent confrontation, as the earth opened up and swallowed the rebels, and fire consumed the 250 men offering incense. The Lord declared, "Separate yourselves from this congregation, so that I may consume them in an instant" (Numbers 16:21). This event serves as a warning against rebellion against God's appointed leaders and the dire consequences of such insubordination.

3. The Conflict between David and Saul (1 Samuel 18-31):
The relationship between King Saul and David is marked by jealousy and violent pursuit. Saul's envy of David's success and popularity led to multiple attempts on David's life. Despite Saul's aggression, David refrained from retaliating, demonstrating restraint and respect for God's anointed king. David's refusal to harm Saul, even when given the opportunity, is encapsulated in his words, "The LORD forbid that I should stretch out my hand against the LORD’s anointed" (1 Samuel 24:6). This narrative highlights the virtues of patience, respect for God's timing, and the importance of leaving vengeance to the Lord.

4. The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:54-60):
Stephen, the first Christian martyr, faced a violent dispute with the Jewish leaders who were enraged by his bold proclamation of the Gospel. As they stoned him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit" and "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" (Acts 7:59-60). Stephen's response to violence with forgiveness and faithfulness exemplifies the Christian call to love one's enemies and to bear witness to Christ even unto death.

5. The Riot in Ephesus (Acts 19:23-41):
The Apostle Paul's ministry in Ephesus led to a significant disturbance as the silversmith Demetrius incited a riot against Paul and his companions. The uproar was fueled by economic concerns over the decline in sales of silver shrines of Artemis. The city clerk eventually calmed the crowd, stating, "You have brought these men here, though they have neither robbed our temple nor blasphemed our goddess" (Acts 19:37). This incident illustrates the clash between the spread of the Gospel and entrenched pagan practices, as well as the societal upheaval that can accompany the transformative power of Christianity.

These examples of violent disputes in the Bible serve as reminders of the fallen nature of humanity and the ever-present need for divine intervention and grace. They also provide valuable lessons on the importance of faith, obedience, and the pursuit of peace amidst conflict.
Subtopics

Violent

Related Terms

Parting (27 Occurrences)

Ran (100 Occurrences)

Dash (30 Occurrences)

Swine (15 Occurrences)

Robes (124 Occurrences)

Trembled (43 Occurrences)

Rage (43 Occurrences)

Plunge (4 Occurrences)

Choked (6 Occurrences)

Amain

Slayeth (28 Occurrences)

Slash (1 Occurrence)

Shaking (162 Occurrences)

Violent (151 Occurrences)

Moved (316 Occurrences)

Robe (142 Occurrences)

Violet (3 Occurrences)

Plunder (118 Occurrences)

Sounding (99 Occurrences)

Parted (67 Occurrences)

Thoughts (151 Occurrences)

Forced (84 Occurrences)

Grief (252 Occurrences)

Devils (48 Occurrences)

Crying (247 Occurrences)

Haters (220 Occurrences)

Seize (91 Occurrences)

Crushing (93 Occurrences)

Oppressed (81 Occurrences)

Strength (517 Occurrences)

Torn (100 Occurrences)

Seized (118 Occurrences)

Quarrel (22 Occurrences)

Broken (559 Occurrences)

Orders (736 Occurrences)

Venison (10 Occurrences)

Violence (98 Occurrences)

Veils (5 Occurrences)

Kick (8 Occurrences)

Upbraided (4 Occurrences)

Unpleasing (6 Occurrences)

Orphan (25 Occurrences)

Oppresses (6 Occurrences)

Lips (199 Occurrences)

Loud-voiced (6 Occurrences)

Landmarks (1 Occurrence)

Loot (15 Occurrences)

Gripping (6 Occurrences)

Gasp (5 Occurrences)

Game (11 Occurrences)

Wrap (9 Occurrences)

Whipping (4 Occurrences)

Whirlwind (33 Occurrences)

War (529 Occurrences)

Weavers (4 Occurrences)

Waters (386 Occurrences)

Wall (227 Occurrences)

Forcing (25 Occurrences)

Forcefully (3 Occurrences)

Forthwith (30 Occurrences)

Forcibly (1 Occurrence)

Flash (19 Occurrences)

Twisted (79 Occurrences)

Terrible (90 Occurrences)

Townsmen (18 Occurrences)

Terribly (9 Occurrences)

Taber

Thresh (7 Occurrences)

Tumble (1 Occurrence)

Tottereth (2 Occurrences)

Tear (97 Occurrences)

Toss (13 Occurrences)

Trembleth (21 Occurrences)

Rash (18 Occurrences)

Resembled (18 Occurrences)

Rebuked (39 Occurrences)

Rank (42 Occurrences)

Rock (176 Occurrences)

Reproved (20 Occurrences)

The Violent
Top of Page
Top of Page