What does the Bible say about biting and devouring one another?

In Galatians 5:15, Paul warns the believers against the dangers of internal conflict, stating, 'But if you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another.' This metaphor highlights how divisive actions—such as slander and accusations—can destroy the body of Christ. This warning was specifically aimed at the factions emerging in the Galatian church, where some were advocating for justification by works of the law rather than by faith in Christ alone.

John Calvin elaborates on this idea, explaining that the terms 'bite' and 'devour' represent not only verbal offenses but also any act that arises from malice or injustice. The underlying truth is that actions rooted in contention and strife do not benefit a community but lead to its ruin. Instead of fostering a spirit of brotherly love, these destructive behaviors ultimately weaken and threaten the unity and health of the church body. It is a sobering reminder that within the church, mutual edification should be the goal, not mutual destruction.