Bible Reading: Job 38, 39, 40; Acts 16:1-20.
Memory Verse: “And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus;” Acts 15:39 (KJV).
The bible recognises two types of unity which were mentioned by Apostle Paul. These are unity of the Spirit ( Ephesians 4:3) and Unity of the Faith ( Ephesians 4:13).
Unity of the Spirit is based on shared life in Christ and all Christians must be diligent to preserve this. This is a unity that arises from the fact that anyone born again into the body of Christ is born into the same Spirit. On the other hand Unity of faith is the oneness of shared light regarding biblical truth. We are to attain this as we mature in Christ. It deepens as we grow to understand and love the doctrines of the faith.
When you are faced with dispute with another member, you should disengage emotions and answer the following questions objectively.
Firstly, what is the nature of the dispute? It’s important to recognise that often, we try to push personality clashes into realm of doctrines and sin when in fact it is disagreement on personality. It might be better to get an objective third party to intervene ( Philippians 4:2-3). Secondly, check whether the dispute is on a biblical principle. You need to check whether one principle is applicable or several. For example Paul’s position in Acts 15 could be based on Luke 9:62 and that’s why he felt Mark was not fit having been disappointing once. But Barnabas could also say God gave Jonah a second chance and Jesus gave Peter another chance. ( John 21:2-17). Both men could elevate both principles to defend their positions. In such a case, it is better to separate in love. However where you cannot separate, such as in a marriage, you should then answer the next question.
Thirdly, what character does God want me to develop through this dispute? Sometimes God brings us together with those that often step on our toes so that they can help smooth our rough edges. If our partner sees things in our ways all the times, we do not need patience, goodness, gentleness, meekness, self control among others. So God allows our personality to clash with others so that we could develop those other virtues in us! Lastly, would the cause of Christ be furthered by my working closely with this personality? That is certainly the case in marriage as God hates divorce. For brethren, we should remember diverse gifts are given to different members. It is expected that we compliment each other with our gifts. That will further the cause of Christ. So we should sit to address our differences with the sole objective of furthering the cause of Christ! (1 Corinthians 12:12-30).
In conclusion, we must always remember that we have a common enemy and on no occasion should we allow the adversary to cheer out of our dispute!
Prayer point: Father, in the mighty name of Jesus, please give me the grace to live and work in harmony with my brethren focusing on the cause of Jesus Christ all the times.
Bro. Biodun Oyapero