01/09/2025
*Argued*
Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen. (Acts 6:9)
Many people argue with one person.
But they could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he (Stephen) spoke (Acts 6:10).
Disputes are always present.
The Pharisees argued with Jesus (Mark 8:11)
Some of the Pharisees and Herodians and Sadducees argued with Jesus (Mark 12:13, 18, 28)
The disciples argued with one another (Mark 9:10; Luke 22:24; 24:15)
The scribes argued with the disciples (Mark 9:14, 16)
Saul also argued with the Hellenistic Jews (Acts 9:29)
Paul and Barnabas had no small amount of dissension and debate with them (Acts 15:2).
The debate continues.
What to do if there is a dispute?
Paul and his companions decided to go to the apostles and elders in Jerusalem to discuss the dispute (Acts 15:2).
Yes, that is what should be done. What is the point of dragging out the argument?
A decision must be reached.
When there are disputes, we should see God's servants. Or we should look in the Scriptures.
Both parties must be willing to accept what the Scriptures say.
There was a doubt about the place of Jesus' birth.
The wise men, following their knowledge, arrived at King Herod's palace in Jerusalem. The king said, "I do not know."
The king called together the chief priests and the scribes to find out the place.
They searched the Scriptures. They found the right place - Bethlehem.
Yes, the answer is in the Scriptures.
Isn't that why they searched the Scriptures daily to see if it was so? (Acts 17:11; 2 Tim.3:14 - 17)
When there are disputes in churches, if they seek answers in the country's constitution, the society act, or the expert opinions of lawyers, that church is not the church of God.
What should be done if there is a dispute in the church of God about whether to vote or to cast lots? We must look to the Word of G