Little Red Book Ministry

III. Denominational Differences
Another problem you will meet up with as a Christian will be found in the area of denominational differences. There are many doctrinal variations among Christians. Many of the major protestant denominations will at least conform to the majority of the doctrines found in lesson 4. One notable exception will be found in the sharp split over the issue of the security of the believer. This, however, cannot prevent a person from being saved or getting to heaven. It is therefore an acceptable variation in most cases.

A. Don’t be drawn into useless arguments
“But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes” (2 Timothy 2:23).

1. Arguments over doctrine
Many Christians love to argue over doctrine. Most of these people are not interested in the truth. They are only interested in proving themselves to be right to their own satisfaction. When you meet someone like that, it is OK to state your position and give proof verses, but it rarely serves any purpose to argue. Many of these people have made up their mind to believe what they want to believe regardless of the facts.

Romans 14:1–5; 1 Corinthians 3:1–3; 2 Corinthians 12:20; 1 Timothy 6:3–5

2. Arguments in front of lost people
This is a very serious mistake that many weak Christians make. Lost people will get the impression that doctrine is a gray area rather than an absolute. Remember, doctrinal division comes primarily from Christians who no longer believe that there even is an absolute. They have been deluded by incorrect wording in false versions of the Bible.

When these people want to argue with you over established, major doctrinal issues, simply inform them in a kindly manner that your Bible gives the absolute truth on the position and allows for no discussion. Then withdraw from the situation. If they want to argue over minor doctrinal issues, point out that the issue isn’t worth arguing about and withdraw from the situation.