I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought. 1 Corinthians 1:10 NIV
Can’t we all just get along? Some would say that unity is actually very simple, “everyone just needs to agree with MY way of thinking.” I truly believe that the divisions broadcast throughout our nation about our government, schools, and homes, find their root in the “churches” failure to honor Jesus desire for oneness among his followers. When we choose not to mend our differences, it plants seeds of discord that bears fruit in our nation. Please, Lord have mercy upon us.
Schimata is the greek word for “division” which literally means to split apart. A disagreement over where to eat is not division. Choosing not to eat with that person again because you don’t like their choice of restaurant is the schism (split). BTW discussions and personal convictions about food and what should be eaten, have been a source of division since the beginning of time. Mealtime should be a place of happiness and unity. When you see the argument you’re defending start to separate, be silent and extend grace. There are no winners when the body starts cutting off its members.
Divisions in church are not a new problem, at another time Paul addressed the issue in his letter to Titus. But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned. Titus 3:9-11 NIV
When would it be an appropriate time to distance yourself from a person who continues to stir up division? How would this be addressed in a church setting? How would you counsel someone who wanted to change from being divisive?
Blessings, Love y’all.