Arguing

zetesin, zeteseis (noun); zeteo (verb)

search, debate

Because I was at a loss how I could investigate these matters, I asked if he were willing to go to Jerusalem and be tried there on these charges.

-Acts 25:20

When Paul and Barnabas had a major argument and debate with them, the church appointed Paul and Barnabas and some others from among them to go up to meet with the apostles and elders in Jerusalem about this point of disagreement.

-Acts 15:2

Now a dispute came about between some of John’s disciples and a certain Jew concerning ceremonial washing.

-John 3:25

Arguing Unwisely

But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, quarrels, and fights about the law, because they are useless and empty.

-Titus 3:9

But reject foolish and ignorant controversies, because you know they breed infighting.

-2 Timothy 2:23

2 Tim. 2:23, Titus 3:9 - moras (feminine) = foolish

1 Cor. 1:25 - foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom

Mark 7:13 (variant) - you nullify the Word of God by the (foolish) tradition that you have handed down

Arguing Unwisely

If someone spreads false teachings and does not agree with sound words (that is, those of our Lord Jesus Christ) and with the teaching that accords with godliness, he is conceited and understands nothing, but has an unhealthy interest in controversies and verbal disputes. This gives rise to envy, dissension, slanders, evil suspicions, and constant bickering by people corrupted in their minds and deprived of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a way of making a profit.

1 Timothy 6:3-5

1 Tim. 6:4 - noseo = be sick. ailing (figurative)

Arguing Unwisely

Marks of unwise arguing:

Useless

Breeds infighting, quarrels

Gives rise to:

Envy

Lack of trust

Intellectual depravity

Wise Arguing

May my words and my thoughtsbe acceptable in your sight,O LORD, my sheltering rock and my redeemer.

Psalm 19:14

Is it worshipful?

Wise Arguing

But reject foolish and ignorant controversies, because you know they breed infighting. And the Lord’s slave must not engage in heated disputes but be kind toward all, an apt teacher, patient, correcting opponents with gentleness. Perhaps God will grant them repentance and then knowledge of the truth and they will come to their senses and escape the devil’s trap where they are held captive to do his will.

2 Timothy 2:23

Is the other person in mind?

Wise Arguing

For though we live as human beings, we do not wage war according to human standards, for the weapons of our warfare are not human weapons, but are made powerful by God for tearing down strongholds. We tear down arguments and every arrogant obstacle that is raised up against the knowledge of God, and we take every thought captive to make it obey Christ.

2 Corinthians 10:3-5

Are you depending upon God’s power and guidance?

Wise Arguing

Finally, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, affectionate, compassionate, and humble. Do not return evil for evil or insult for insult, but instead bless others because you were called to inherit a blessing...But set Christ apart as Lord in your hearts and always be ready to give an answer to anyone who asks about the hope you possess. Yet do it with courtesy and respect, keeping a good conscience, so that those who slander your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame when they accuse you.

1 Peter 3:8-9, 15-16

Are you displaying Christlikeness?

Wise Arguing

Is it worshipful?

Is the other person in mind?

Are you depending upon God’s power and guidance?

Are you displaying Christlikeness?