Why Public Arguments Among Christians Harm the Faith—and How to Avoid Them

Christian Living

Oct 29

Let’s choose unity over division, embracing love and humility in every interaction. As Paul reminds us, we are one body in Christ, called to uplift, not tear down, each other.

By Sarah Austin // EEW Magazine Online

In today’s world of instant reactions and online platforms, public disputes among believers are more visible than ever. While healthy dialogue has its place, turning disagreements into public spectacles often damages the message we’re called to uphold.

Yet, there are cases when Christians should confront fellow believers openly—especially when issues relate to core doctrines, unrepented sin, or public behavior that misrepresents the gospel. Paul’s confrontation of Peter in Galatians 2 is one example, where he rebuked Peter’s behavior in public to correct hypocrisy that could lead others astray.

But these situations should be approached with caution, humility, and a focus on restoration. When disputes center on secondary issues or involve pride and personal agendas, we risk doing more harm than good.

Here are 5 scriptural reasons to reconsider public arguments among Christians.

1. It Damages Our Witness

The world watches how we treat each other, and when we air our disagreements publicly, we risk harming the body’s testimony of love and unity. Public criticism, especially when it’s harsh or divisive, undermines the message of compassion and reconciliation that should characterize our faith.

Jesus prayed for believers to embody unity, saying, "May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them as you have loved me" (John 17:23).

Public discord suggests to outsiders that we’re not aligned in our love for one another, which can weaken our collective witness.

2. It Shifts Focus to Secondary Issues

Many public disputes focus on non-essential doctrines or personal interpretations, often causing confusion over the core gospel message. Debates on secondary topics can obscure the clarity of Christ’s teachings, drawing attention away from the foundational truth that unites us.

Paul cautioned against this in Titus 3:9, saying, "Avoid foolish controversies...and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless."

When we prioritize these debates publicly, we risk confusing the faithful and blurring the gospel’s simplicity, focusing attention on issues that don’t affect salvation or the Christian walk.

3. It Fuels Pride and Division

Publicly “winning” arguments can feed pride, while losing can breed resentment, leading to a cycle of division that harms fellowship. This is particularly dangerous in public forums, where individuals may feel compelled to defend their reputation instead of seeking understanding. Proverbs 13:10 warns, "Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice." Humility allows us to listen and reflect on others’ perspectives without feeling threatened. When pride drives our interactions, we risk alienating others and diminishing the unity Christ commands us to pursue.

4. It Lacks Grace and Love

The tone of public debates often fails to reflect Christ’s call to love others as ourselves. Snarky remarks, personal attacks, and condescension can be common in these exchanges, doing little to foster grace or understanding. When we choose to engage in debate, it’s crucial to remember Peter’s call to defend the faith “with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). Jesus exemplified kindness and compassion, even in confrontation. Without grace and love, we miss the opportunity to build others up, instead reinforcing a culture of criticism that can weaken faith.

5. It’s Rarely Resolving

Public platforms often lack the nuance and depth needed for meaningful resolution. Without nonverbal cues, digital arguments can easily lead to misunderstandings and escalated conflict. Social media comments sections, in particular, rarely lead to changed hearts or minds; rather, they can become echo chambers where opposing sides dig deeper into their positions.

Proverbs 17:14 wisely counsels, "Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out."

Dropping an issue isn’t avoidance—it’s recognizing when a public setting isn’t suitable for constructive discussion.

Thoughtful Confrontation

This doesn’t mean all disagreement should be avoided. The Bible records instances of discernment and discussion over key issues, showing that thoughtful confrontation has its place.

But when we must debate, let’s prioritize grace, choose private discussions whenever possible, and remain focused on the essentials of the faith.

As Paul urged, "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit...just as you were called to one hope when you were called" (Ephesians 4:3-4).