If Anyone Wants to Be Contentious
But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God.
1 Corinthians 11:16 (NKJV)
In this letter, the apostle Paul addresses a matter that goes beyond external traditions or customs: the contentious spirit. Although the immediate context of the passage deals with order in worship and conduct within the church, his final warning touches a deep part of the human heart: there are those who, rather than seeking understanding or truth, simply love controversy.
Paul is clear. If someone wants to be contentious—that is, to seek conflict by habit or by nature—the churches of God do not follow that pattern. A lifestyle of constant contention is not part of the DNA of the Body of Christ. This teaches us that the Gospel transforms not only what we believe, but also how we relate to others, how we debate, and how we respond to disagreement.
1. The Contentious Person Seeks to Impose, Not to Build Up
A contentious person is not interested in mutual growth or the edification of the church. They want to be right, not to build unity. They care more about proving their point than displaying the love of Christ.
2. Constant Contention Reveals an Immature Heart
The habit of always opposing, always starting a new debate, is a sign of pride, insecurity, or a lack of character shaped by the Spirit. A mature believer chooses their battles wisely—and above all, chooses peace.
3. Unity Is More Powerful Than Being Right
The church must be united in the essentials: Christ, His redemptive work, His resurrection, and His return. In secondary matters, we can have differences without breaking fellowship. Unity doesn’t mean uniformity—it means mutual respect under one Lord.
4. There’s Room for Differences, But Not for Quarreling
Preaching styles, worship methods, clothing choices, food preferences—these are cultural or personal differences. But when love reigns, there’s space for diversity without the need for division.
5. God’s Churches Do Not Promote a Culture of Destructive Criticism
Paul states it clearly: “We have no such custom.” Being argumentative is not part of the believer’s lifestyle. The Kingdom of God is built with humility, gentleness, and patience—not with sarcasm, shouting, or inner rivalries.
6. Love Must Always Frame Our Relationships
Paul ends chapter 13 of this same letter by saying, “the greatest of these is love.” And that love is shown not only in spiritual matters, but in how we treat the brother or sister who thinks differently. Love doesn’t seek to win—it seeks to serve.
But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God.
1 Corinthians 11:16 (NKJV)
Think About It:
• Am I fueling unnecessary debates or building up with my words?
• Am I willing to lose an argument in order to win a heart?
• What can I do today to sow peace and love, even in the midst of differences?
If Anyone Wants to Be Contentious
