But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and strife and disputes about the Law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. Reject a factious man after a first and second warning, knowing that such a man is perverted and is sinning, being self- condemned.
Tit 3:9-11
I heard (and been a part of at times) too many "spiritual" discussions that were nothing more than foolish controversies and disputes about the Bible. They missed the point of the Scriptures and the majored on the minors.They are like a Pharisee eating his soup who would "strain out a gnat and swallow a camel!" (Mat 23:24) It's so easy to get into those types of discussions and feel sanctified and justified for trying argue our interpretation of the Bible with no regard for the other person's feelings or ideas. And, usually we completely miss the main point of the passage.
Jesus said this about people who majored on the minors: "you tithe mint and dill and cummin, and have neglected the weightier provisions of the law:justice and mercy and faithfulness; but these are the things you should have done without neglecting the others." (Mat 23:23) When we feel like we've arrived in justice, mercy and faithfulness, then maybe we'll be justified in putting such scrutiny on tithing the herbs from our gardens/arguing about the meaning of the white horse in Revelation.
Lord, help me to focus on the things that You say are important. Help me to love what you love: justice, mercy and faithfulness. Help me to love my brothers and sisters in Christ more than I love to be right. Help me to honor their feelings and opinions. Most of all, I want to honor you by my life.
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