AVOID

AVOID. Titus 3:9 Paul reminded Titus of the difference between what is good and profitable and what is useless, vain, and unprofitable for everyone. Judaizers were divided into sects with various opinions about the law, the resurrection of the body, divorce and remarriage, a Sabbath day’s journey, what constitutes work, and other ideas of self-opinionated men. Most arguments are guesses, strange ideas, and interpretations that aren't essential to the lives and testimony of believers. When we get caught up in arguments, no one benefits, even if we win. Winning an argument often means losing influence over the person you defeated, as they may not want to talk to you about spiritual truths anymore. Some things are not profitable, such as foolish questions, ancestries, arguments, and controversial opinions, but truth can be affirmed when we face false teaching directly. To argue over things of no value is not what we are called to do. We should avoid those impractical, unprofitable debates that only waste time. Honest discussion about scriptures to better understand the teaching in context and the practical application of truth affirms what is right. Arguments based on strange interpretations from a person's imagination or odd stories about past events should be avoided. Contention is outward conflict driven by inner jealousy among those seeking power, prestige, or status. It represents malicious intent to interfere with or halt others' actions. This issue arises when false teachers justify their claims about ancient pedigrees by relying on private interpretations of Old Testament prophecies. Those who stand for truth should not even engage with foolish questions and genealogies, as they provoke unnecessary and unhealthy curiosity. Ignoring such matters does not mean neglecting; it means avoiding trivial and unprofitable topics. Strange ideas and false teachings are often the sources of arguments and controversy. In conversation, it’s easy to focus on words “in the original” and overlook the main point of the passage in its context. It’s unwise to concentrate on just one aspect of a spiritual truth while ignoring other relevant parts of the teaching. Avoid nit-picking on theological issues that are unclear. Continually harping on certain points does not build up anyone. Overreacting or focusing on insignificant matters wastes our time and diverts attention from what truly matters. Open and honest discussion of spiritual truth can lead to wisdom and understanding. If a discussion becomes argumentative, steer the conversation toward a more productive topic. If the arguments continue, excuse yourself and walk away. Titus was to avoid unprofitable and pointless situations and focus on the work of organizing everything, teaching the Lord’s people how to make the doctrine of God our Savior attractive, and encouraging them to do good works.