Introduction

Arrogance and division are recurring themes in the Bible, often addressed as significant obstacles to spiritual growth and community harmony. The Scriptures provide guidance on recognizing, confronting, and overcoming these issues, emphasizing humility, unity, and love as foundational Christian virtues.

Arrogance in Scripture

Arrogance, or pride, is frequently condemned in the Bible as a sin that leads to downfall and separation from God. Proverbs 16:18 warns, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." This verse highlights the inevitable consequences of arrogance, which blinds individuals to their own faults and distances them from divine wisdom.

The New Testament continues this theme, with James 4:6 stating, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" Here, the apostle James underscores the importance of humility as a means to receive God's grace, contrasting it with the opposition faced by the proud.

Division in the Early Church

Division within the Christian community is addressed extensively in the New Testament, particularly in the epistles of Paul. The apostle Paul frequently admonished early Christians to maintain unity and avoid divisions. In 1 Corinthians 1:10, he appeals to the church in Corinth: "I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree together, so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be united in mind and conviction."

Paul's letters reveal that divisions often arose from arrogance, as individuals or groups sought to elevate themselves above others based on spiritual gifts, social status, or adherence to particular leaders. In 1 Corinthians 3:3-4, Paul rebukes the Corinthians for their worldly behavior: "For you are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and dissension among you, are you not worldly? Are you not walking in the way of man? For when one of you says, 'I follow Paul,' and another, 'I follow Apollos,' are you not mere men?"

The Call to Humility and Unity

The Bible consistently calls believers to adopt humility and pursue unity as antidotes to arrogance and division. Philippians 2:3-4 exhorts, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." This passage encourages believers to prioritize the well-being of others, fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.

Ephesians 4:2-3 further emphasizes the importance of unity: "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Here, the apostle Paul highlights the virtues necessary for maintaining unity, urging believers to practice patience, gentleness, and love.

The Role of Love in Overcoming Arrogance and Division

Love is presented as the ultimate solution to arrogance and division. In 1 Corinthians 13, often referred to as the "Love Chapter," Paul describes love as patient, kind, and devoid of envy or pride. Verse 4-5 states, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no account of wrongs."

The transformative power of love is further emphasized in Colossians 3:14: "And over all these virtues put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity." Love serves as the binding force that unites believers, enabling them to overcome personal differences and work together for the common good.

Conclusion

The Bible provides a clear framework for confronting arrogance and division, urging believers to embrace humility, unity, and love. By adhering to these principles, Christians can foster harmonious communities that reflect the character of Christ and advance the mission of the Church.