9. How did “foolish and ignorant debates” affect the early Christian congregation?

⁹ God’s Word gives specific advice concerning the types of unrighteousness that Christians must renounce or reject. For instance, in the immediate context of 2 Timothy 2:19, we find that Paul tells Timothy “not to fight about words” and to “reject empty speeches.” (Read 2 Timothy 2:14, 16, 23.) Some members of the congregation were promoting apostate teachings. Also, it appears that others were introducing controversial ideas. Even if the latter were not directly unscriptural, they were divisive. They resulted in bickering and arguing over words, creating a spiritually unhealthy atmosphere. Hence, Paul stressed the need to “reject foolish and ignorant debates.”

10. How should we respond when confronted with apostasy?

¹⁰ Today, Jehovah’s people are not often confronted with apostasy within the congregation. Still, when exposed to unscriptural teachings, regardless of the source, we must decisively reject them. It would be unwise to engage in debates with apostates, whether in person, by responding to their blogs, or by any other form of communication. Even when the intention is to help the individual, such conversation would be contrary to the Scriptural direction we just considered. Rather, as Jehovah’s people, we completely avoid, yes reject, apostasy.

11. What could give rise to ‘foolish debates,’ and how can Christian elders set a good example?

¹¹ There are other things besides apostasy that have the potential for disrupting the peace of the congregation. For instance, differences of opinion regarding entertainment can result in “foolish and ignorant debates.” Of course, when individuals promote entertainment that violates Jehovah’s moral standards, Christian elders should not tolerate such behavior simply to avoid controversy. (Ps. 11:5; Eph. 5:3-5) Still, elders are careful not to promote their personal views. They loyally adhere to the Scriptural admonition given to Christian overseers: “Shepherd the flock of God under your care, . . . not lording it over those who are God’s inheritance, but becoming examples to the flock.”​—1 Pet. 5:2, 3; read 2 Corinthians 1:24.

¹³ The Bible principles discussed above do not apply only to our choice of entertainment. Opinions about dress and grooming, health and nutrition, and other personal matters may also trigger controversy. Accordingly, if no Scriptural principle is being violated, Jehovah’s people wisely abstain from arguing over such matters, “for a slave of the Lord does not need to fight, but needs to be gentle [tactful, ftn.] toward all.”​—2 Tim. 2:24.