Avoid Foolish Disputes

“But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and useless.”

Titus 3:9

It has been said, “when a person has an important conversation or correspondence with a friend or counselor, the most personal, and sometimes the most urgent, concerns are mentioned last.” That seems to be the case in this epistle. In Crete, Titus was to set things in order. Leadership and sound teaching was lacking. The churches were in danger of no longer winning people to Christ. As he closes his letter, Paul leaves Titus with some vital counsel.

Titus faced a large intimidating group of false leaders who were diluting the truth. They were Jewish legalists who taught for money and prestige (Titus 1:10-11). Their teaching led others in the congregations to “major on the minors.” They engaged in topics that had no bearing on repentance and salvation. Precious opportunities were given over to “pet” topics. The Apostle Paul called them “foolish disputes.”

Foolish is from the Greek word móros. It is the root for our English word, moron. Titus was not to get involved in discussions of subjects that were controversial and contentious. It is as if Paul is telling Titus, “Do not get involved with a moron who just wants to be controversial.” R. Kent Hughes wrote, “Those who engage in such debates distract the church from its mission and purpose.” Adherence to these instructions keeps us focused on our true purpose.   

Whenever teaching through the Bible, there should always be personal and practical aspects given within the message. We should always avoid tangents or riding a consistent hobby horse. Theological controversies should be carted out of sight and mind, leaving room for the only thing that matters, the Cross of Christ.

“Allegorizing the Scriptures until they become absurd. Theological nit-picking that edifies no one. Wandering from the word into political by-paths and into Christian crusades against this and that. What a tragedy to spend precious time on these things while a world is perishing!”

– William MacDonald