how do you win somebody who twists truth, insults, lies, is prejudice against truth? is it possible or should we just find someboody else to converse with as they are just wasting our time

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 Here is guidance on how to approach individuals who twist truth, insult, lie, and are prejudiced against the truth, drawing from the King James Bible and the writings of Ellen G. White:

  • Regarding those who are perverse in their disputings, have corrupt minds, and are destitute of the truth, it is advised to "from such withdraw thyself" <1 Timothy 6:5>. Similarly, one should "Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceivest not in him the lips of knowledge" <Proverbs 14:7>, as "reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee" <Proverbs 9:8>.

  • The Scriptures describe the nature of those who deal falsely or lie. "They only consult to cast him down from his excellency: they delight in lies: they bless with their mouth, but they curse inwardly" <Psalms 62:4>. Such individuals "trust in lying words, that cannot profit" <Jeremiah 7:8>, and their "tongue is as an arrow shot out; it speaketh deceit" <Jeremiah 9:8>. "A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren" is also identified <Proverbs 6:19>.

  • When encountering someone who twists truth or lies, it is noted that "a wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue" <Proverbs 17:4>. Additionally, "he that hideth hatred with lying lips, and he that uttereth a slander, is a fool" <Proverbs 10:18>. The Bible asks, "Should thy lies make men hold their peace?" <Job 11:3>.

  • Concerning contention and reproof, it is taught that "the beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with" <Proverbs 17:14>. While one should "Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit" <Proverbs 26:5>, there is also the caution, "Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him" <Proverbs 26:4>. Furthermore, "If a wise man contendeth with a foolish man, whether he rage or laugh, there is no rest" <Proverbs 29:9>.

  • In contrast to lying and deceit, the call is to truthfulness and righteous conduct. "Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another" <Ephesians 4:25>. It is also stated that "He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit" <Proverbs 12:17>. When engaging with others, "debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and discover not a secret to another" <Proverbs 25:9>.

  • When dealing with those prejudiced against the truth, "work patiently, wisely, considerately, winning your way by the tender ministry of love" <7T 11.2 | PUR, October 9, 1902 par. 7 | AUCR, August 15, 1902 par. 15 | RH, August 12, 1902 par. 11 | RH, October 20, 1904 par. 5>. By presenting "the truth in such a way that it will be seen in all its beauty, exerting an influence that cannot be resisted," the "walls of prejudice will be broken down" <7T 11.2 | PUR, October 9, 1902 par. 7 | AUCR, August 15, 1902 par. 15 | RH, August 12, 1902 par. 11 | RH, October 20, 1904 par. 5>. It is advised to "Agree with the people on every point where you can consistently do so," showing that you "love their souls, and want to be in harmony with them so far as possible" <Ev 140.3 | HS 122.1 | RH, June 13, 1912 par. 4>.

  • It is crucial to avoid controversy and personal attacks. "Do not spend time in controversy with those who bring up objections" <CTr 214.4>, and "Do not repeat the words of your opponents, or enter into controversy with them" <SpTA04 23.2 | UL 270.3 | TM 249.1>. Christ's example is to be followed, as "Christ did not bring against Satan a railing accusation concerning the body of Moses... but in holiness and humility said, 'The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan'" <SpTA04 23.2 | TM 249.1 | UL 270.3>. Instead, "Keep always to the affirmative" <Ev 302.3 | GCB, May 18, 1909 par. 9 | GW 358.2 | 9T 148.1>, because repeating opponents' arguments can "strengthen their arguments" <Ev 302.3 | GCB, May 18, 1909 par. 9 | GW 358.2 | 9T 148.1>.

  • Cultivating self-control, meekness, and silence is important. "Your spirit, if kept gentle under provocation, will speak louder than any force of argument" <8MR 24.2>. "Ofttimes the greatest victories are gained through silence. Self may clamor for vindication; but silence gives time for reflection and prayer, and for God to speak to the soul. Silence is an evidence, not of weakness, but of strength, and is often more powerful than the strongest arguments" <ST, March 4, 1886 par. 12>. If one is "spoken to harshly, never retaliate. Utter not a word. When under provocation, remember that 'silence is eloquence'" <1SAT 376.3>.

  • In cases where individuals are steeped in error and unbelief, or seem to be seeking attention, it may be best to disengage. "Time and strength can be better employed than in dwelling at length upon the quibbles of our opponents who deal in slander and misrepresentation" <GW 375.3 | CW 55.1>. Sometimes, opponents "will die out more speedily to be left unnoticed, to have their errors and falsehoods treated with silent contempt" <3T 37.1 | CW 55.2>. If they persist in pressing their way in, "those who are of a sensible mind in the congregation will understand that yours is the higher standard" <GW 359.1>.

  • Ultimately, the focus should be on personal transformation and reliance on God. "If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain" <2T 54.1 | James 1:26>. We are to "fight the good fight of faith. Overcoming requires constant watchfulness and unceasing prayer" <19MR 151.3>. Rather than warring against each other, "War against these unenviable traits of character" within oneself <11MR 263.2 | 1888 1089.2>.

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