Quarrels

Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will. 2 Timothy 2:23-26

There were gnostics in Timothy's church, who thought they possessed "deeper knowledge" than he'd learned from Paul. There were legalistic Jews, who insisted that believers should be circumcised and keep the Law. There were frustrated women, who argued among themselves about details, and criticized each others' service. Just teach the Truth, Timothy, of Jesus' grace provision; the good news of His finished work. Refuse to be involved in the arguments of the stupid, arrogant and self-righteous. Don't let it get to you, but gently teach them that God's plan, policy and provision are always GRACE; fulfilled by the Son and enabled by the Holy Spirit in the lives of those who are IN CHRIST. Please notice it is a tactic of Satan to cause this kind of contention and discord among the brethren. Pastor's duty: shape these people up by clear and consistent teaching of Bible Doctrine. Not by stroking. By faithful and authoritative TEACHING.