Topical Encyclopedia Dissensions refer to disagreements or conflicts that cause division among individuals or groups. In the context of the Bible, dissensions are often seen as works of the flesh and are discouraged among believers. The New Testament provides guidance on how to handle and avoid dissensions within the Christian community, emphasizing unity and peace as central to the faith.Biblical References: 1. Galatians 5:19-21 · In his letter to the Galatians, the Apostle Paul lists dissensions among the "acts of the flesh." He warns that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. The passage reads: "The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God" . 2. Romans 16:17 · Paul advises the Roman church to be vigilant against those who cause divisions. He writes, "Now I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who create divisions and obstacles that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Turn away from them" . This instruction underscores the importance of maintaining doctrinal purity and unity within the church. 3. 1 Corinthians 1:10 · Addressing the Corinthian church, Paul appeals for unity, urging believers to avoid divisions. He states, "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" . This call for unity highlights the importance of harmony in the body of Christ. 4. Titus 3:10-11 · Paul instructs Titus on how to deal with a divisive person, advising that such an individual should be warned twice and then avoided if they do not change. The passage reads, "Reject a divisive man after a first and second admonition, knowing that such a man is corrupt and sinful; he is self-condemned" . This directive emphasizes the need for discipline in maintaining church unity. Theological Insights: Dissensions are often rooted in pride, selfish ambition, and a lack of love, which are contrary to the teachings of Christ. The New Testament consistently calls believers to pursue peace and unity, reflecting the oneness of the body of Christ. The presence of dissensions can hinder the church's witness to the world and disrupt the fellowship among believers. The early church faced numerous challenges related to dissensions, often arising from doctrinal disputes, cultural differences, and personal conflicts. The Apostles, particularly Paul, addressed these issues by emphasizing the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, which enables believers to live in harmony and love. Practical Application: Believers are encouraged to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). By doing so, they can overcome the tendencies that lead to dissensions. Church leaders are called to foster an environment of open communication, mutual respect, and sound teaching to prevent divisions. In personal relationships, Christians are urged to practice forgiveness, seek reconciliation, and prioritize the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3). By adhering to these principles, the church can effectively demonstrate the love and unity that Christ prayed for in John 17:21, "that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you" . Greek 1370. dichostasia -- standing apart, dissension ... Word Origin from dichostateo (to stand apart) Definition standing apart, dissension NASB Word Usage dissensions (2). division, sedition. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1370.htm - 7k Library Further Dissensions among the Arians at Constantinople. The ... On Reconciling Religious Dissensions among Christians You Say that Some of them Cause Dissensions... That the Catholic Faith May be Confirmed Even by the Dissensions ... The Doctrine of the Christians, is Opposed to Dissensions, and ... Causes of the Deposition of Cyril, Bishop of Jerusalem. Mutual ... Heresy, as Well as Schism and Dissension, Disapproved by St. Paul ... But, Before I Make My Answer to Your Letter, I must Expostulate ... A Message of Warning and Entreaty Whether a Religious Order Should be Established for the Purpose of ... Thesaurus Dissensions (5 Occurrences)...Dissensions (5 Occurrences). ... (WEY). Galatians 5:20 enmity, strife, jealousy, outbursts of passion, intrigues, dissensions, factions, envyings; (WEY YLT NAS NIV). ... /d/dissensions.htm - 7k Dissension (18 Occurrences) Intrigues (4 Occurrences) Informed (39 Occurrences) Factions (5 Occurrences) Envyings (3 Occurrences) Enmity (23 Occurrences) Discord (7 Occurrences) Domestic (5 Occurrences) Dissimulation (3 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about envy? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the works of the flesh? | GotQuestions.org What is the fruit of the Holy Spirit? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Dissensions (5 Occurrences)Romans 16:17 1 Corinthians 1:10 1 Corinthians 1:11 Galatians 5:20 Titus 3:9 Subtopics Related Terms |