Divisive

by Chadwick Brewer

“I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery, they deceive the hearts of the naive” (Romans 16:17-18).

There are appropriate reasons for there to be division in the church. In times of false teaching or wrong practices, there needs to be a clear distinction between those who are genuine and those who are false (I Corinthians 11:19). These fractions will allow proper actions to be taken, whether it be correction, repentance, and reunification (II Corinthians 2:7), or correction and loving discipline (I Corinthians 5:5). The ultimate goal in both scenarios is for the congregation to be as whole and healthy as possible.

by john ivar andresen on Flickr.com

However, some like to cause division, and others are willing to be divisive, given the right opportunity. Some crave the chaos, friction, and pandemonium that ensue with division. Some have their own agendas and are willing to sacrifice the unity and health of a congregation to get what they want. Some divisive people are members, some are preachers, some are elders, and some are deacons. Regardless of the position they hold or the role they fulfill, this divisive heart is evil.

Paul writes to the Romans, urging them to watch out for such people. He tells them to avoid such individuals since they do not hold to the doctrine of the Lord Jesus; rather, their first allegiance is to their own appetites. They can be smooth talkers and flatter with the best of them, but they will deceive and bring destruction. Look carefully in moments of division. Are they building up the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:12)? Are they trying to maintain the unity of the Spirit and obtain the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3)? Or are they destroying the temple of God?