Confused Contention

“They have rewarded Me evil for good, and hatred for My love” (Psalm 109:5).   “He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy…  If a wise man contendeth with a foolish man, whether he rage or laugh, there is no rest” (Proverbs 29:1,15).  “Some therefore cried one thing, and some another: for the assembly was confused; and the more part knew not wherefore they were come together” (Acts 19:32). 

Contention is surely confused

That rages against Christ our Lord. 

Our Savior was greatly abused;

He loved us, yet He was abhorred!   

Consider such hardened confusion  

With thinking so hopelessly flawed:   

How great is the sinner’s delusion

Who foolishly fights against God! 

The one who is often reproved  

With stubbornness all the more hardened,

Could have his transgressions removed,

And all of his sins could be pardoned! 

The Spirit of God will contend  

With those yet resisting the Savior,  

But one day the striving will end,

And so will His offer of favor. 

The rebel won’t listen to reason,

Regardless of how it’s presented. 

Destruction will come in its season

To those who have never repented. 

We see this confusing contention

In those who don’t know why they’re here,

And yet they despise the mere mention

Of truth in the Gospel so clear. 

O Lord, we give thanks for Your kindness

Which You plainly show in Your Word

That turns us from our willful blindness

To rest in Your promise assured. 

We thank You, Lord, for Your salvation,

Which You, by Your grace, have made plain. 

Your Gospel is our declaration;

Contention confused is insane!