By Al Felder Christians are sometimes warned to avoid controversy as though every disagreement were spiritually harmful. That is not what Paul taught. Paul confronted false doctrine, identified dangerous teachers, reasoned from Scripture, and instructed church leaders to correct those who contradicted the truth. Some issues must be addressed because God has spoken and souls are at stake. At the same time, Paul repeatedly warned against foolish disputes, arguments over words,

By Al Felder When Christians hear the expression “itching ears,” they often picture people searching for teachers who will tell them that sin does not matter, obedience is unnecessary, and judgment should not be feared. That application is certainly valid. Many people want a form of religion that comforts them without correcting them. They prefer messages that affirm their choices, minimize repentance, and promise God’s approval without submission to His authority. However, i

By Al Felder Religious teaching can accomplish many things. It can attract an audience. It can stir emotions. It can introduce unfamiliar information, expose error, answer questions, and provoke discussion. In the digital age, it can also generate views, shares, subscriptions, and a loyal following. However, none of those results, by itself, proves that the teaching has fulfilled its biblical purpose. A lesson may hold our attention without strengthening our faith. It may lea