But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. Titus 3:9
You don’t have to go to every argument you are invited to. – Bryan Jones to his daughter Gretchen.
This Pastoral Epistle was written to Titus who is given charge overseeing many pastors on the island of Crete. He must have had great strength of character. Opposition to the Christian messages was prevalent. Engaging in heated conflict proves counterproductive. A positive ethic focuses on overcoming evil with good.
Unprofitable and useless are strong words with very unpleasant implications. Who has time for that? However, it is hard to argue with someone doing something loving and kind. The Gospel message of hope and peace garners far more attention than petty controversies over who’s who in a moment that will soon pass away.
Feel free to turn down those invitations!
Love,
Gretchen