Now an argument started among the disciples ¹  as to which of them might be ²  the greatest.

“Listen now to my argument, ¹  and be attentive to my lips’ contentions. ² 

If indeed ¹  you would exalt yourselves ²  above me and plead my disgrace against me, ³ 

Now a dispute came about between some of John’s disciples and a certain Jew ¹  concerning ceremonial washing. ² 

When he said this, ¹  an argument ²  began ³  between the Pharisees and the Sadducees, and the assembly was divided.

If a wise person ¹  goes to court ²  with a foolish person, there is no peace ³  whether he is angry or laughs. ⁴ 

“Present your argument,” says the Lord. “Produce your evidence,” ¹  says Jacob’s king. ² 

So I want the men ¹  to pray ²  in every place, lifting up holy hands ³  without anger or dispute.

For people ¹  swear by something greater than themselves, ²  and the oath serves as a confirmation to end all dispute. ³ 

Then two prostitutes came to the king and stood before him.

How painful ¹  are honest words! But ²  what does your reproof ³  prove? ⁴ 

“How much less, ¹  then, can I answer him ²  and choose my words ³  to argue ⁴  with ⁵  him! ⁶ 

But if only God would speak, ¹  if only he would open his lips against you, ² 

Does he argue ¹  with useless ²  talk, with words that have no value in them?

“How long until you ¹  make an end of words? ²  You must consider, ³  and then ⁴  we can talk.

She persuaded him ¹  with persuasive words; ²  with her smooth talk ³  she compelled him. ⁴ 

A toss of a coin ¹  ends ²  disputes, and settles the issue ³  between strong opponents. ⁴ 

When you argue a case ¹  with your neighbor, do not reveal the secret of another person, ² 

So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, ¹  the circumcised believers ²  took issue with ³  him,

nor can they prove ¹  to you the things ²  they are accusing me of doing. ³