Biblical Disagreements
Believers will differ in their understanding of certain doctrines. The challenge is to remain focused on Christ and His Word, growing in love and holiness, rather than being distracted by arguments. Spirituality is measured not by doctrinal correctness but by Christ-likeness and love.
1. Avoid Distracting Arguments
Paul's last words warn against distracting arguments that lead believers away from Christ-centeredness. The challenge is to remain focused on studying God's Word in the filling and teaching of the Holy Spirit, not to become fixated on pet doctrines.
"Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit... Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth... But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes... In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves..."
Don't quarrel about words. Study to rightly divide the Word. Avoid foolish controversies that breed strife. Instruct with gentleness those who oppose.
"But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience... All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works."
Follow sound doctrine, godly living, and love. All Scripture is profitable—it equips us completely for every good work.
2. Good Men Differ on Minor Doctrines
Good men and women differ in their opinions on some doctrines due to different interpretations of Scripture. The possibility is that either or both are wrong. There are some things we will only be sure of when we get to heaven, and we must operate on earth upon "best practice" in exegesis and life.
Major differences in today's churches include prophetic interpretation (pre, mid, post-tribulation Rapture views), manner of baptism, and spiritual gifts. These are secondary issues—we can disagree and still be unified in Christ.
3. Spirituality is Determined by Christ-Likeness, Not Correctness
Spirituality is determined not by correctness of doctrine on secondary issues, but by holiness and Christ-likeness of the person's life. A great saint of the past identified four tests for truth regarding interpretations of Scripture. They are useful to consider before arguing—which is always a sign you have it wrong!
Four Tests for Your Interpretation:
- A. Does my interpretation make me more practical and loving towards others?
- B. Does my interpretation make me more evangelistic for the lost?
- C. Does my interpretation make me more keen to serve in the local church?
- D. Does my interpretation make me focus on others rather than myself?
If these questions are not true for your viewpoint, then on the basis of Scripture you are 100% likely to be wrong in your interpretation and application.
"Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless... our beloved brother Paul... hath written unto you; as also in all his epistles... in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction. Ye therefore, beloved... beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ."
Some things in Scripture are hard to understand, and the ignorant twist them. Beware of error. Grow in grace and knowledge of Christ.
4. The Fruit of Right Interpretation: Love and Service
Right interpretation of Scripture produces love, humility, service, and focus on others. These passages show what true spirituality looks like:
"And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant."
Greatness in God's kingdom is measured by servanthood, not doctrinal pride.
"If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all."
To be first, become last and servant of all. Humility and service mark spiritual maturity.
"Abide in me, and I in you... This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you... These things I command you, that ye love one another."
Abide in Christ and love one another. This is the command that supersedes all doctrinal debates.
Conclusion
Disagreements on secondary doctrines are inevitable. But let us not be distracted from the main thing: growing in Christ-likeness, loving one another, and serving faithfully. Test your interpretations by their fruit. If they produce love, humility, evangelism, and service, you are on solid ground. If they produce pride, division, and arguments, you have twisted the text.