Drawing Biblical Wisdom to Overcome Division and Conflict
Introduction
Spiritual ignorance—an unawareness or misunderstanding of deeper spiritual truths—has long contributed to strife and contention in society. Whether it manifests in heated political debates, racial tensions, or religious disputes, a lack of spiritual understanding often fuels division and conflict. The Bible speaks candidly about the dangers of spiritual ignorance, describing it not just as a shortcoming but as a sin with serious consequences. In a world longing for unity, God’s call to seek wisdom stands as a beacon of hope and guidance.
Biblical View of Spiritual Ignorance
The Bible consistently portrays spiritual ignorance as a barrier to a right relationship with God. In Hosea 4:6, God laments, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” This ignorance is not merely intellectual; it is a failure to understand and embrace God’s truth. Scripture warns that remaining ignorant of God’s ways leads to sin and separation from Him. Proverbs 1:7 declares, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Spiritual ignorance, then, is not simply a passive state; it is a willful neglect of the wisdom God offers, which the Bible identifies as sinful (Romans 1:21-22).
Types of Ignorance
Spiritual ignorance takes several forms:
· Spiritual Ignorance: Not knowing or understanding God’s truth and character. This type often results from neglecting Scripture, prayer, and meaningful engagement with faith.
· Willful Ignorance: Choosing to ignore or reject spiritual truth, even when it’s presented clearly. The Bible warns against hardening one’s heart (Hebrews 3:13), showing that this form of ignorance is a deliberate sin.
· Former Ignorance: The state before coming to faith or spiritual awakening. Ephesians 4:18 describes those “darkened in their understanding” because of separation from God, but also offers hope for transformation through Christ.
Each type carries its own implications, but all hinder individuals and communities from living out God’s call to wisdom, love, and justice.
Consequences of Ignorance
The consequences of spiritual ignorance are far-reaching. Ignorance leads to sin, as individuals act without understanding God’s will. It opens the door to deception, allowing false beliefs and divisive ideologies to take root. Without spiritual knowledge, people miss out on the transformation God desires for them, remaining trapped in cycles of strife and brokenness. The apostle Paul warns in Acts 17:30 that “God commands all people everywhere to repent” of ignorance and seek Him. Remaining ignorant is not neutral—it has real, spiritual and social consequences.
Ignorance and Societal Strife
The link between spiritual ignorance and societal contention is unmistakable. When individuals lack spiritual discernment, they are more susceptible to the polarizing forces of politics, race, and religion. Instead of seeking understanding and reconciliation, ignorance breeds suspicion and hostility. The Bible calls believers to be “peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9) and to “love one another” (John 13:34), yet ignorance undermines these mandates, perpetuating division rather than healing.
Political debates often devolve into personal attacks when spiritual wisdom is absent. Racial tensions escalate when people fail to see the image of God in every person. Religious disputes intensify when dialogue is replaced by dogma. In all these areas, spiritual ignorance fuels the fires of strife, making true unity impossible.
God’s Call to Wisdom
God’s remedy for ignorance is clear: pursue wisdom. James 1:5 encourages, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without finding fault.” The pursuit of spiritual knowledge is not reserved for scholars or clergy—it is a calling for every believer. Wisdom is the antidote to division, equipping individuals and communities to discern truth, practice love, and build peace. Proverbs is filled with exhortations to seek understanding, reminding us that wisdom is available to all who desire it.
Overcoming Ignorance
Overcoming spiritual ignorance requires intentional action. Here are practical steps for individuals and communities:
1. Engage with Scripture: Regular reading and study of the Bible is foundational for spiritual growth and understanding.
2. Pray for Wisdom: Ask God for discernment and insight in personal and communal matters.
3. Seek Community: Learn from others in faith communities who can offer perspective, accountability, and support.
4. Practice Humility: Be open to correction and willing to admit when you don’t know or understand something.
5. Apply Truth: Let biblical knowledge shape attitudes, words, and actions, especially in areas of division.
When individuals and communities commit to these steps, spiritual ignorance loses its grip, and the possibility for unity and peace emerges.
Conclusion
Spiritual ignorance is more than a personal failing—it is a root cause of societal strife and division, especially as it relates to politics, race, and religion. The Bible teaches that ignorance is a sin, but it also offers hope in God’s call to seek wisdom. By pursuing spiritual knowledge, we can overcome the barriers that divide us and become agents of healing and reconciliation. The journey from ignorance to understanding is not easy, but it is essential for cultivating unity and peace in our world.
Minister A Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 