A person who stirs up conflict in a community is a traitor. – Proverbs 16:28
Understanding Division
As we gather together, we quickly realize that division can create chaos in our communities. It is a force that disrupts harmony, leading us away from unity in Christ. When we read the Bible, we see that division is not from God; it tears apart the very fabric of relationships. We must remind ourselves that our unity is rooted in love and the desire for peace. By recognizing those who cause division, we can collectively work to mend our relationships and elevate each other. It is essential to address the heart of the matter. We can choose not to engage in conflict and instead focus on what brings us together.
Proverbs 6:16-19
“There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.” – Proverbs 6:16-19
Romans 16:17
“I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them.” – Romans 16:17
Titus 3:10
“Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them.” – Titus 3:10
Galatians 5:19-21
“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.” – Galatians 5:19-21
1 Corinthians 1:10
“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
The Cost of Division
As a community, we have to be aware of the toll division takes on our relationships and our overall mission. Division creates unnecessary stress and contention, drawing our focus away from the teachings of Jesus. There is a cost associated with allowing division to flourish. It can cause us to miss out on the blessings of unity and the joy that comes from working together for a common purpose. We must recognize how serious it is to allow division to seep into our hearts. Through understanding this cost, we find the motivation to work toward reconciliation and restoration in our communities.
James 3:16
“For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.” – James 3:16
Proverbs 17:14
“Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.” – Proverbs 17:14
Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” – Matthew 5:9
Ephesians 4:3
“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” – Ephesians 4:3
2 Corinthians 12:20
“For I am afraid that when I come, I may not find you as I want you to be, and you may not find me as you want me to be. I fear that there may be discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, slander, gossip, arrogance and disorder.” – 2 Corinthians 12:20
Fostering Unity
Unity is not a mere absence of conflict but playing an active role in promoting harmony. As Christians, we are called to be peacemakers, actively working to eliminate division and encourage collaboration among members of our faith community. We each have a crucial role in fostering unity by choosing to listen, empathize, and find common ground with others. By sowing seeds of kindness and understanding, we can create an environment that nurtures love and support rather than division. Together, we can create a peaceful atmosphere filled with God’s love.
Colossians 3:14
“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” – Colossians 3:14
Philippians 2:2
“Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.” – Philippians 2:2
Psalm 133:1
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” – Psalm 133:1
1 Peter 3:8
“Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.” – 1 Peter 3:8
Ephesians 4:13
“Until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.” – Ephesians 4:13
Steps to Reconciliation
Sometimes, people who cause division in our lives may need our compassion rather than our anger. We can take proactive steps toward reconciliation as a community. The Bible encourages us to approach those who cause division with a gentle spirit and an open heart. By doing so, we can potentially mend broken relationships and find common ground. It is not about ignoring the wrongs done but instead about seeking constructive dialogue that leads to healing and understanding. Together, we can pave the way to a harmonious community, even in the face of discord.
Matthew 18:15
“If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.” – Matthew 18:15
Galatians 6:1
“Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.” – Galatians 6:1
Luke 17:3
“So watch yourselves. If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them.” – Luke 17:3
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1
God’s View on Division
When we look into the scriptures, we see the heart of God regarding division. He desires unity among His children, and He calls us to focus on love, grace, and understanding. The teachings of Jesus challenge us to break down the walls that division creates. We must remember that God views division as harmful and disruptive and believe that He desires fellowship, peace, and a spirit of togetherness. Understanding God’s perspective on division encourages us to choose love over conflict every single day.
John 17:21
“That all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” – John 17:21
1 Corinthians 12:25-26
“So that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.” – 1 Corinthians 12:25-26
Zechariah 8:16
“These are the things you are to do: Speak the truth to each other, and render true and sound judgment in your courts;” – Zechariah 8:16
Psalm 34:14
“Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.” – Psalm 34:14
Romans 12:18
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” – Romans 12:18
Living in Harmony
Harmony, rooted in love and acceptance, should be our goal as a Christian community. When we actively seek to build relationships based on trust and support, we prevent division from creeping in. This harmony reflects Christ’s love—an unshakeable foundation that draws us closer together rather than tearing us apart. Our commitment to living in harmony brings balance and peace to our interactions with others, allowing us to thrive in community as we fulfill our God-given mission. Together, we can show what it looks like to love one another in Christ.
Philippians 4:9
“Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” – Philippians 4:9
Romans 14:19
“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” – Romans 14:19
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Romans 15:5-6
“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” – Romans 15:5-6
Colossians 3:2
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” – Colossians 3:2
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the verses about those who cause division, we recognize the importance of safeguarding unity in our communities. We must stay vigilant and engaging in Christ-like actions that lead to love and peace. Our commitment to reconciliation and understanding paves the way for a nurturing atmosphere that draws us closer together. Let us encourage one another as we strive to overcome division with understanding, open hearts, and a commitment to unity.
As we journey together, we can create an environment filled with love and harmony. We can choose to encourage others to build one another up instead of tearing each other down. For more insights on how to foster unity, check out our articles on working together in the church and the church beyond buildings.
Together, we look ahead with hope, trusting that our efforts will lead us to deeper connections and a stronger community in Christ’s love. Together, we can overcome anything that tries to divide us.