There's a fine line between debate and argument. While most believe the two to be the same, or at least, very similar, both have completely different aims, characteristics, and outcomes.
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Arguments often involve a number of people all sharing opinions, slogans, and judgments, each more ready to hear their own voice understood, rather than to understand others. Rather than attempting to learn, one only seeks to voice their views, neither wanting to hear, let alone think about their opponent's views. Often, such a discourse results with a heated discussion and each person leaves with a less than cordial view of the others.
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A debate can loosely be defined as a formal discussion of a chosen topic. Unlike an argument, a debate has a specific aim: to educate the persons involved. Such an "education" involves listening to the other person and seeking to understand them, while at the same time clearing up questions they may have.
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A good rule of thumb for determining the volatility of the situation:
If someone gets mad, everyone loses.
Why do I say that?
As stated above, debates seek to educate. If a person becomes angry or defensive, they close themselves to new ideas, rendering the debate without purpose.
As Jesus tells us in Matthew 10:16, we should be "wise as serpents." Being wise DOES involve being able to defend your faith when the time comes to it.
-Paul
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