Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature: Dissension refers to disagreement, conflict, or discord that arises among individuals or groups, often leading to division and strife. In the context of the Bible, dissension is typically viewed as a negative force that disrupts unity and harmony within the community of believers. It is often associated with sinful behavior and is warned against in Scripture. Biblical References: 1. Proverbs 6:16-19 · This passage lists things that the Lord hates, including "a person who stirs up dissension among brothers." Dissension is seen as a destructive force that undermines relationships and community. 2. Romans 16:17 · The Apostle Paul warns the Roman church, "Now I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who create divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them." Here, dissension is linked to false teachings and is something believers are to avoid. 3. 1 Corinthians 1:10 · Paul appeals to the Corinthian church, "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." The call is for unity and agreement, contrasting with the divisive nature of dissension. 4. Galatians 5:19-21 · Dissension is listed among the "acts of the flesh," which include "hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy." These are contrasted with the fruit of the Spirit, emphasizing that dissension is contrary to the life led by the Spirit. 5. Titus 3:10-11 · Paul advises Titus, "Reject a divisive man after a first and second admonition, knowing that such a man is corrupt and sinful; he is self-condemned." This instruction highlights the seriousness of dissension and the need for church leaders to address it decisively. Theological Implications: Dissension is often seen as a manifestation of the sinful nature, which seeks to disrupt the unity that is meant to characterize the body of Christ. The New Testament frequently emphasizes the importance of unity among believers, reflecting the unity of the Godhead and the oneness of the Church as the body of Christ. Dissension, therefore, is not merely a social or relational issue but a spiritual one that can hinder the witness of the Church and the work of the Holy Spirit. Practical Considerations: In dealing with dissension, believers are encouraged to pursue peace and reconciliation. Matthew 18:15-17 provides a model for addressing conflicts within the church, emphasizing direct communication and the goal of restoration. Additionally, Ephesians 4:3 urges believers to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Church leaders are called to be vigilant against dissension, promoting sound doctrine and fostering an environment where love and unity can flourish. The emphasis is on maintaining the integrity of the faith and the community, ensuring that the Church remains a reflection of Christ's love and unity to the world. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) Disagreement in opinion, usually of a violent character, producing warm debates or angry words; contention in words; partisan and contentious divisions; breach of friendship and union; strife; discord; quarrel.Greek 1370. dichostasia -- standing apart, dissension ... standing apart, dissension. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: dichostasia Phonetic Spelling: (dee-khos-tas-ee'-ah) Short Definition: division ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1370.htm - 7k 4714. stasis -- a rebel, revolutionist 4714b. stasis -- a standing, by impl. an insurrection, fig. strife 1266. diamerizo -- to distribute, to divide 1261. dialogismos -- a reasoning Library The Dissension of the Arabians. Of the Dissension Caused by Paulinus; of the Innovation by ... Being Grieved by the Dissension, He Counsels Peace. Dissension About a Successor to Auxentius, Bishop of Milan. ... Of the Civil Dissension Occasioned by the Sedition of the Gracchi. Dissension Between Theophilus Bishop of Alexandria and the Monks ... Heresy, as Well as Schism and Dissension, Disapproved by St. Paul ... Rhodo and his Account of the Dissension of Marcion. Whether Peace is the Proper Effect of Charity? Whether Peace is the Same as Concord? Thesaurus Dissension (18 Occurrences)... quarrel. Multi-Version Concordance Dissension (18 Occurrences). Luke ... earth? No, I tell you that I came to bring dissension. (WEY). John ... /d/dissension.htm - 11k Difference (19 Occurrences) Sedition (8 Occurrences) Variance (1 Occurrence) Violent (151 Occurrences) Factious (2 Occurrences) Faction (4 Occurrences) Dissensions (5 Occurrences) Dispute (37 Occurrences) Determined (89 Occurrences) Resources What is the cause of church splits? How can healing occur after a church split? | GotQuestions.orgDoes God hate gays / homosexuals? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about child abuse? | GotQuestions.org Dissension: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Dissension (18 Occurrences)Luke 12:51 John 7:43 Acts 15:2 Acts 23:7 Acts 23:10 Acts 24:5 Acts 24:12 Romans 13:13 Galatians 5:20 1 Timothy 2:8 1 Timothy 6:4 Proverbs 6:14 Proverbs 6:19 Proverbs 10:12 Proverbs 15:18 Proverbs 16:28 Proverbs 28:25 Proverbs 29:22 Subtopics Related Terms |