Do You Disagree like a Christian or Pick a Fight like a Fool?

In online “discussions,” most Christians do a great job expressing their views, even when they disagree. That's because they refuse to take things personally, refuse to name-call, and refuse to get angry.

Let's look at 4 biblical guidelines for disagreements that will help us whether we disagree face-to-face, in emails, or on social media: 

1. We should state our beliefs as graciously as possible: 

"Let your conversation be always full of grace." Colossians 4:6

2. If someone is rude, we should respond in the opposite spirit: 

"A gentle answer turns away wrath." Proverbs 15:1.

3. We should approach people humbly, not acting like a "know-it-all":

"When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom." Proverbs 11:2

4. If the other person is contradicting Scripture, we should be patient and prayerful:

"Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth." 2 Timothy 2:25

If we can't disagree biblically, we'd be wise to keep our mouths shut (Proverbs 17:28).

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For more insights on Christian conversation, see the Bible Love Notes Collection of 1-minute devotions about Christian Speech. In fact, why not use it as a Bible study with your prayer partner or small group. One devotion that is especially pertinent to this subject is Ad Hominem Disagreement - A Sign of Weak Faith.

Note: Online, highlighting certain words and sentences by making them all caps is the same as rudely shouting at someone. The only time all caps are appropriate is when you are writing to someone who is seeing-impaired or when you're saying something positive like “I LOVE JESUS!” 

Bible Love Notes