It is not unusual to hear
someone say that it is wrong to debate. I most often hear this from false
teachers who do not want to be exposed, though others make this argument as
well.
Those who make this argument
appeal to passages like Romans 1:29 in the KJV. It condemns "debate"
among other things. However, that word (eridos) refers to malicious
feuding that is hateful and harmful. Some translations say
"bickering," "fighting," and "quarreling." That
does not apply to cordial discussions in which opposing views are considered.
(When the KJV was first published, "debate" was an ugly word that
carried the idea of violent disputing. It denoted something entirely different
than modern debates).
The book of Acts is filled
with debates. We read that Paul debated in Jerusalem (9:29, NIV), in Antioch
(15:2, NIV), and in Athens (17:18, NIV). We are also told that he was
"arguing persuasively" in Ephesus (19:8, NIV). Likewise, Apollos
"vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate" in Achaia (18:28).
Obviously, the early saints did not think it was wrong to debate.
Debates are an expedient way
to "test the spirits" (1 John 4:1) and to "contend for the
faith" (Jude 3). That is because they permit both sides of a position to
be considered. When done in the right spirit, it is not wrong to debate.
