How can John 3:25 guide us in addressing disagreements within the church? Setting the Scene “Then a dispute arose between John’s disciples and a certain Jew over the matter of ceremonial washing.” (John 3:25) The verse drops us into a moment of tension. People who loved God found themselves arguing about religious practice. John the Baptist’s response in the following verses shows a pattern we can imitate when disagreements flare up in the church today. What Sparks Conflict? • Competing loyalties • Traditions held tightly • Partial understanding of truth • Personal pride and territorial instincts Seeing the roots keeps us from only treating the symptoms. John’s Model: Redirect to Jesus Read the next lines (John 3:26-30). Instead of defending his ministry, John: • Acknowledged God’s sovereignty: “A man can receive only what is given him from heaven.” (v. 27) • Recalled his role: He was “the friend of the bridegroom,” not the groom. • Rejoiced when Christ was exalted: “He must increase; I must decrease.” (v. 30) When Jesus stays at the center, side issues shrink to size. Core Principles for Church Disagreements 1. Remember who owns the ministry “A man can receive only what is given him from heaven.” God, not we, grants platforms, gifts, and influence. 2. Keep identity anchored in Christ John knew he was the forerunner, not the Messiah. Clear identity frees us from turf wars. 3. Pursue unity of mind and conviction “I appeal to you… that all of you may be of one mind and that there may be no divisions among you.” (1 Corinthians 1:10) 4. Cultivate humility and patience “With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love.” (Ephesians 4:2-3) 5. Reject fruitless arguments “Reject foolish and ignorant speculations, for you know that they breed quarreling.” (2 Timothy 2:23) 6. Seek heavenly wisdom “The wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, accommodating…” (James 3:17-18) Practical Steps • Pause and pray before responding. • Ask, “Will my words make Jesus larger or me larger?” • Clarify facts; avoid assumptions. • Focus on shared mission: preaching the gospel, making disciples. • Choose forums that build up, not public arenas that inflame. • If conscience differs on secondary issues, practice Romans 14:19—pursue what leads to peace and mutual edification. • When wrong, repent quickly; when sinned against, forgive readily. Verses to Keep Close • John 3:30 – “He must increase; I must decrease.” • Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” • Romans 14:19 – “So then, let us pursue what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” • James 3:17 – Wisdom that is “peaceable, gentle, accommodating.” By following John the Baptist’s Christ-centered posture, the church can navigate disagreements in a way that magnifies Jesus, guards unity, and fosters spiritual growth. |
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