One of the more positive features of a debate is the chance to see the candidates side by side and having them simultaneously be presented and respond to the issues.

We must be aware, however, that one of the more negative results of a debate is that the “victor” may be determined by his ability to debate & dodge the issues rather than his ability to present solutions to the issues at hand.

In spiritual warfare, it is critically important to remember who our primary enemy is and how he operates. Our primary enemy is not people, their plans, or their behaviors. It is Satan and his forces of evil (Eph.6: 12). Satan seldom identifies himself and he always uses deception to achieve his objectives.

For reasons to be explained further in detail, luring a Christian into a debate is a satanic trap. Debating appeals to the pride and arrogance of our fallen nature as it affords one the opportunity to show everyone how wise we are and how foolish everyone else is who may hold differing opinions. While leading the Christian to believe that he is fighting the “good fight” (1Tim.1: 18 NIV) and exercising his faith via debate, the satanic objective is to cause needless (2Tim.2: 23) divisions and “arguments” (Col.2: 4 NIV) among believers and to use the equal opportunity afforded to him in the debate forum to spread and/or reinforce his false doctrines.