Titus 3:9
Our days are few and are far better spent in doing good than in disputing over matters which are, at best, of minor importance. The old schoolmen did a world of mischief by their incessant discussion of subjects of no practical importance, and our churches suffer much from petty wars over confusing and unimportant questions. After everything has been said that can be said, neither party is any the wiser, and therefore the discussion no more promotes knowledge than it promotes love.
It is foolish to sow in so barren a field. Questions upon points where Scripture is silent, upon mysteries which belong to God alone, upon prophecy’s doubtful interpretation, and upon mere modes of observing human ceremonies are all foolish, and wise men avoid them. Our business is neither to ask nor answer foolish questions, but to avoid them altogether, and if instead we observe the apostle’s precept to be careful to maintain good works, we shall find ourselves far too much occupied with profitable business to take much interest in unworthy, contentious, and needless strivings.
There are, however, some questions which are the reverse of foolish, which we must not avoid, but fairly and honestly deal with, such as these: Do I believe in the Lord Jesus Christ? Am I renewed in the spirit of my mind? Am I walking not after the flesh, but after the Spirit? Am I growing in grace and does my lifestyle adorn the doctrine of God my Saviour? Am I looking for the coming of the Lord, and watching as a servant should who expects his Master to come? What more can I do for Jesus?
Such inquiries as these urgently demand our attention, and if we have been at all given to arguing over trivial matters, let us turn our critical abilities to a service more profitable. Let us be peacemakers and endeavor to lead others, both by our teaching and example, to avoid foolish questions.
– C. H. Spurgeon