May 1998 Issue

"Is DEBATING scriptural?"

By Dick Ward

Bible Answer:

Did you know Stephen, Barnabas, Paul and Jesus engaged in open debate over religious matters? Paul said, "I am set for the defense of the gospel" (Philippians 1:17). The scriptures show the boldness of Stephen (Acts 7) and Barnabas (Acts 13) as they stood up for what they believed and practiced. The life of Jesus is replete with examples of open, religious discussion (Matthew 21:23ff; John 8:1-11; Matthew 22; Mark 2:23-28; etc.). When a man claims to preach the gospel he immediate obligates himself to defend his teachings and practices (I Corinthians 11:1). Peter said, "be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you…" (I Peter 3:15).

WHAT IS A DEBATE?

Is debating sinful? Some people have gotten the mistaken idea the Bible condemns religious discussions. Much of the problem is found in the misapplication of the word "debate" as found in Romans 1:29 and 2 Corinthians 12:20. This word (eris) is also translated "contention (2ts), strife (4ts), and variance (1t)". This word is defined as "contention, strife, wrangling" by Thayer in his Greek Lexicon. Obviously, wrangling is wrong. On the other hand, open discussion over religious differences is exemplified in the scriptures with Divine approval.

In a good debate both sides of the question at hand are presented. Each man has equal opportunity and time to present what he believes on the subject and the audience is given the opportunity to examine the evidence offered. It is evident a false teacher would not like to have his doctrine openly examined. We should have no respect for a man who privately presents his destructive heresies and then sanctimoniously opposes a public test of his teaching.

DO DEBATES DO GOOD?

Debates do good! The preacher of the gospel is required to "earnestly contend for the faith" (Jude 3) and debating is certainly one way to meet this command. When men have honest hearts, truth is learned and error is exposed. Problems dividing children of God can be solved and unity and trust restored (Acts 15). It is a way to "stop the mouths" of false teachers (Titus 1:11). Yes, debates do good! The problem is finding religious men who have the courage to stand up and honorably defend their teachings and practices.

[Editor’s Note: Thanks to Dick Ward for the article! This article was published in a newspaper column titled, "Did You Know?" in the Carrier Newspaper in Madison, Florida. He may be reached at: Dick Ward, 18 Eldorado East, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35405, (205) 556-2407.]

Email the Editor at markjward@yahoo.com