How can we address "divisions among you" in our church community today? Setting the Scene: Paul’s Concern About Divisions “For, in the first place, I hear that when you come together as a church, there are divisions among you, and in part I believe it.” (1 Corinthians 11:18) • Paul writes to believers who meet regularly, yet fracture relationally. • The issue isn’t merely organizational—it is spiritual, springing from hearts that have lost focus on Christ and His body. Identifying the Roots of Division • Pride and party spirit (1 Corinthians 1:12–13) • Socio-economic favoritism (1 Corinthians 11:21–22) • Doctrinal quarrels (2 Timothy 2:14) • Unforgiven offenses (Matthew 5:23–24) • Cultural or ethnic prejudice (Galatians 3:28) Returning to the Cross as Common Ground • “For I decided to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” (1 Corinthians 2:2) • The cross levels every status and preference; we stand equal, forgiven, and called to the same mission. • Unity flows from remembering whose body we are disrupting when we divide (1 Corinthians 12:27). Practical Steps Toward Unity Today • Examine our hearts before gathering. “Let a man examine himself, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup.” (1 Corinthians 11:28) • Pursue face-to-face reconciliation quickly. “As far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18) • Teach sound doctrine consistently so truth, not opinion, guides us (Ephesians 4:13–14). • Celebrate the Lord’s Supper in a manner that highlights our oneness—sharing, waiting, including every believer (1 Corinthians 11:33). • Encourage servant leadership; those who lead must model humility (Mark 10:43–45). • Pray corporately for unity. Jesus asked the Father “that they may all be one” (John 17:21); we echo His request together. • Honor every member’s gifting and contribution (1 Corinthians 12:21-25). Safeguarding Unity at the Lord’s Table • The meal proclaims Christ’s death “until He comes” (1 Corinthians 11:26); divisions distort that proclamation. • Self-examination keeps the focus on repentance, not rivalry. • Waiting for one another emphasizes family over individuality. Continual Pursuit of Oneness • “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3) • Unity is maintained, not manufactured—guarded by love, truth, and ongoing submission to Christ. • As we walk in step with the Spirit, divisions fade, and the watching world sees the reality of the gospel (John 13:35). |
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