Do not get involved in foolish discussions about spiritual pedigrees or in quarrels and fights about obedience to Jewish laws. These things are useless and a waste of time. If people are causing divisions among you, give a first and second warning. After that, have nothing more to do with them. For people like that have turned away from the truth, and their own sins condemn them. I am planning to send either Artemas or Tychicus to you. As soon as one of them arrives, do your best to meet me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to stay there for the winter. Do everything you can to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos with their trip. See that they are given everything they need. Our people must learn to do good by meeting the urgent needs of others; then they will not be unproductive. Everybody here sends greetings. Please give my greetings to the believers—all who love us. May God’s grace be with you all.
Titus 3:9-15 NLT
The Christian life is not about feeling superior or winning arguments. In Paul’s time, believers often got sidetracked by pointless debates and meaningless discussions. Though Paul entrusted Titus with authority, he didn’t expect him to win every argument. Instead, Paul advised Titus to avoid certain disputes altogether, teaching that true wisdom includes knowing when to walk away. Having authority doesn’t mean controlling everything—it means discerning what truly matters.
Walking away can be difficult because we all crave being right and coming out on top. However, even in matters of unity—of great importance within the Body of Christ—Paul instructed Titus to rebuke someone twice and then move on (v.10). This approach preserves unity by avoiding endless conflict with those driven by their own agendas.
Ultimately, the Christian life is about walking with God. This walk transforms us, strengthening us through life’s storms and filling us with lasting joy, even in the midst of challenges. Spending time with God shifts our focus away from selfishness and superiority, freeing us to trust Jesus and pursue what is right. This is the essence of life as a child, friend, and servant of God. It’s the life we were created to live.
Do you know when to walk away from a foolish argument? How can you follow Jesus (right living) without looking down on others?
