Scripture offers some very strong words regarding people who create unnecessary division within the Church. They are called liars and deceivers with evil motives, “Their perverted hearts plot evil, and they constantly stir up trouble” (Proverbs 6: 14).
Scripture offers a list of sins the Lord hates and is an abomination to Him, “There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him; haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers” (Proverbs 6: 16-19). The seventh sin, the sin of creating discord, caught my attention.
“Hate” and “abomination” are strong words. That clear and concise description runs contrary to a current definition of God’s love that has removed from Him any passion against what we chose that opposes His will.
The Lord is winnowing His Church by removing anything from us that is contrary to His heart. As we invite the Holy Spirit to examine our motives do our words “make haste to run to evil” and create division without any foundation of truth? There are times when we need to confront sin, but those times are fewer and farther between than an undisciplined spirit will realize. Mostly our division is caused by our weaponized opinions about things that will not matter in the long run.
We need to be careful in the coming days about the attitude of our hearts as the Lord begins to winnow His Church. Creating any unjustified division will be dealt with swiftly by the Lord. Something is coming that will require us to form a unified front against the assaults of hell.
I’ve had a hard time with this one for the last few years. I see so many church leaders adding to the gospel and, as the self-appointed CEO of the local church, take it as their mission to impose interpretations over scripture.
A growing number of people also seem to be fed up with this phenomenon (“reformed” escapees are a big subset). But far more chuch-goers say we should stop challenge these leaders in favor of harmony. I find that hard to do when my young ones are listening and I have to continuously undo the teaching. How many young believers are in the seats who don’t have someone in the next seat to guide them through the confusion?
I’m often reminded of Paul’s admonition to teach the simple gospel.
Words of wisdom.