But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them.
Titus 3:9-10 NIV
I have strong opinions and beliefs about many things, especially theological. And, occasionally, I find myself drawn into an argument, defending some position I care about. But I have to be careful about the arguments I get drawn into. Debates about genealogies are rare in my experience. But foolish controversies, arguments, and theological quarrels are much more common. And Paul tells me here to avoid them.
Paul is not telling us to avoid taking a stand for what we understand to be true. Paul himself strongly defended the gospel message that he proclaimed (Gal. 2:11-14). And he encouraged both Timothy (1 Tim. 1:3-4) and Titus (Tit. 1:10-11) to defend the truth.
But he tells us here to avoid getting caught up in foolish controversies, arguments, and theological debates. Activities that are unprofitable and useless. Is there anything to be gained in the debate? Is there a chance of resolution? Or is the topic worth arguing about? If not, then it is foolish to get involved.
Paul goes on to warn us about people who create division within the body of Christ. They might enjoy argument and controversy. Or they might promote strange and unusual theological positions that put them at odds with the rest of the body. Don’t let them draw you into a conversation that is divisive. And be careful of the theological novelty they might be promoting. Carefully compare what they advocate with what the Scripture teaches. And reject anything that is not fully in line with God’s word.
Paul’s closing words in his first letter to Timothy dealt in part with those who create controversy (1 Tim. 6:3-5), and they are appropriate for us as well. “But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness” (1 Tim. 6:11).
