NO Division HERE

Of late there have been some controversial, brow raising, anti-biblical statements made by several individuals in our places of employment, in the media, even in pulpits across America. What are we supposed to do with all of that? This week our devotional team tackles the topic, “Noting of Divisive People.” Saints, commit this scripture to memory, prepare to be encouraged,  and be ye ready to give an answer to anyone who asks for a reason of hope that is in you with meekness and fear!

In reference to today’s selected scriptural passage, one of my favorite Bible commentary writers declares that the apostle Paul sought to preserve the spirit of love while simultaneously preserving an equally vital necessity in the church at Rome—doctrinal integrity. Errant teachings have done irreparable harm to countless Christian congregations over the centuries. Church history has revealed that some much-needed reforms were also spearheaded by some saints who took up the call to defend the faith.

Most likely, until our Lord returns, there will always be a need for vigilance on the part of those who have deep reverence for the Lord and His word. Apparently the concern about maintaining doctrinal integrity was not the only matter threatening unity among the saints, neither then nor now. Relational problems were emerging in the first century church that were too disruptive for a quick patch-over discussion in the pastor’s office. Having researched a lot of Bible passages over the years about strife and factiousness among churchgoers---and true saints, alike—I have concluded that when sinners of any group congregate for any amount of time—be they friends, married folks, or simply neighbors—some degree of friction is inevitable. It need not, however, lead to great exoduses from fairly cohesive congregations.

I suspect that as worldwide apostasy increases—barring a fifth great [Christian] spiritual awakening—or Christ’s rapture of His own, whichever comes first—we may see in remnant churches [i.e. seriously committed churches] increased instances of what took place in Corinth, wherein Paul declared, ‘I wrote to you in my epistle to not keep company with anyone named a brother, who is sexually immoral, or covetous, or an idolator, or a reviler….[1 Cor. 5:11]. Second Thessalonians 3:6-15 says “We command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition which he received from us.” Some had to be strongly warned against freeloading and laziness! Beyond those divisive matters related to  doctrinal principles, certainly God’s people must newly resolve to LOVE one another—for the love of Jesus our Savior!

PRAYER: Lord God, we have known and believed the love that You have for us…and he who abides in love abides in You, and You in him. Because of Calvary, may we be zealous to demonstrate such love towards one another. Your name be praised; amen!
By Sis. Denise Diggs