“Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil…” – 2 Timothy 2:23-24
First, we must admit Paul’s talking to us. Then we must admit that he’s talking about whatever it is we’re arguing with people about on social media. Then we must breathe and learn the lesson!
The Lord’s servant – hopefully that‘s all of you – must not be quarrelsome. Period. That means there are things we’d love to debate and argue about, but we won’t. There are things we know we could really change people‘s minds about because of our knowledge and persuasive skills. But it’s a waste of time that repels people from Jesus Christ and the gospel. So we need to keep quiet on those things. Never trade your gospel witness for being ”right” on Facebook!
Be kind, be patient, seek to teach with love and gentleness. Toward everyone. Even that jerk who believes that thing that’s obviously dumb (to you)! This doesn’t mean you should ever compromise the faith – that we must never do. That isn’t a foolish controversy or quarrel. We absolutely must contend for the gospel. And that’s why we must not quarrel about a whole host of lesser issues!
Let’s face it, there’s lots of stuff we can argue with people about where we might be right yet we harm God’s Kingdom just by arguing. Christ calls us to surrender our total freedom of speech so we can speak freely, authentically, and impactfully about what matters most – the good news of Jesus Christ and the ancient truths of the faith!