How should believers respond when faced with division in their church community? The Scene at Iconium Acts 14:4: “But the city was divided. Some sided with the Jews, others with the apostles.” • Even Spirit-led ministry can stir sharp division. • The split forced everyone to choose loyalty either to tradition or to the apostolic gospel. Facing Division Without Losing Heart • Expect opposition when truth is proclaimed (John 15:18-20). • Remember the real battle is spiritual, not merely personal (Ephesians 6:12). Keep the Gospel Central • Paul and Barnabas “spoke boldly for the Lord” (Acts 14:3). • 1 Corinthians 2:2 keeps priorities clear: Christ crucified first. • When disagreements flare, realign around the cross and resurrection. Seek Unity Around Truth, Not Comfort • 1 Corinthians 1:10 calls believers to agree “so that there may be no divisions.” • Ephesians 4:3 urges every effort to “keep the unity of the Spirit.” • Unity that sacrifices doctrine is counterfeit; unity grounded in Scripture endures. Respond with Courage and Grace • Courage: keep serving; don’t let strife silence testimony (Acts 14:3). • Grace: “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15); avoid quarrelsome attitudes (2 Timothy 2:24). • James 3:17-18: wisdom from above is “peace-loving… full of mercy.” Practical Steps for Today • Search your own heart first (Matthew 7:3-5). • Pray for wisdom and soft hearts (Colossians 4:2). • Address issues privately, directly (Matthew 18:15). • Refuse gossip (Proverbs 16:28). • Pursue reconciliation promptly (Romans 12:18). • Honor godly leadership and church discipline (Hebrews 13:17). • If core doctrine is denied, stand firm and, if necessary, separate graciously (Romans 16:17; 2 John 1:10-11). • Keep doing good; division must not paralyze ministry (Galatians 6:9-10). When to Stay, When to Move On • Paul stayed “a considerable time” (Acts 14:3) then left when violence loomed (14:6). • The Spirit sometimes says stay (Acts 18:9-11) and sometimes go (Acts 16:39-40). • Discern by Scripture, prayer, and counsel whether your presence builds up or hinders the gospel. Promises to Anchor Hope • Psalm 133:1 — God blesses unity. • John 17:23 — Jesus prayed that our oneness would witness to the world. • Romans 15:5-6 — God grants like-mindedness so we may glorify Him together. • Philippians 1:6 — He will finish what He started, even through conflict. Division can wound, yet God uses conflict to purify and clarify. Keep eyes on Christ, cling to His Word, pursue peace without compromise, and trust the Spirit to restore genuine unity. |
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