"And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will."
Senseless arguments are not necessary in God's kingdom. There is no discourse that can happen among those who are unwilling and not open to the Gospel which is why Christ commands that we simply "shake the dust off or feet" (Mk 6:11) and walk away. It is why Paul left Athens and had little harvest there and why he rejoices so greatly for cities like Ephesus, Philippi, and Corinth who embrace the Gospel with faith. There is no argument so clever or human words so persuasive that can open a hardened heart or uncover blind eyes. God alone does these things.
But instead of quarrel, the Lord's servant is kind, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, and correcting with gentleness. Then God might grant repentance leading to knowledge of truth that they might escape from the schemes of the Devil. Salvation comes not through debating the faith, but belongs solely to our God and is his sovereign choice. Therefore, do not treat your brothers with contempt, but show him gently his error and give him reasons for the hope that you have in Christ.
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