A Word on Controversy

There is no doubt that theologies of all kinds breed controversy.  These controversies are often paired with passion because emotions are so involved with the theology driving each person.  Some people think about controversy and make the conclusion, “I do not like controversy, therefore I must stay away from theology.  2 Tim. 2:14 says that we are to avoid foolish controversies and wrangles about words right?”  It does say that, but please do not think that avoiding theology is the answer here.

Why do I say that this is not the answer to controversy?  Jesus’ whole life was one of controversy, just as all the prophets were, and all the apostles were.  Paul debated in the market day to day, from morning to evening he would try to persaude the people.  So what do we do about controversy?  Do we just “buck up” and “be a man (woman)” about it?  No.  We must see something in Paul’s prohibition to Timothy about foolish controversies.  Paul forbids them, that is clear.  But often we learn something massive from Scripture if we look at the opposite of what is being taught.  Paul forbids being a part of foolish controversies, but does he forbid being a part of godly controversies?  Not at all, and I even think he encouraged it when you take into account his life, and the whole context of 2 Tim. 2:14-19.

The bottom line is this: don’t avoid studying theology because you want to avoid controversy.  Theology and knowing as much of it as you can is precisely what will get you through controversies.  Many people say that a truism (statement that is always true) for our culture is “Discuss anything but politics and religion.”  People say this because these two subjects cause so much controversy.  I would answer this truism with another truism from our culture, “A little knowledge is a dangerous thing.”  When you do not know enough theology to know what is worth being controversial over, people are hurt, and pride is born.  When you do know enough theology to know what is worth being controversial over, people are protected against lies.

(These are my words on RC Sproul’s book “Essential Truths of the Christian Faith”, page 15)