Bible Reading: Psalm 109-111, Romans 16.
Memory Verse: “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.” Romans 16:17 (KJV)
Division is the process of separating something into parts or the process of being separated. A number of people cause divisions amongst people in gatherings, families, offices or even churches by their actions. Such divisions are created by gossip, backbiting or outright lies amongst others. People engage in it in order to cover up their evil actions, seek favoritism or work against the joy or progress of another. Whichever reason, it is not expected of a born again Christian. Such behavior is associated with those who have not accepted Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. Apostle Paul says in 1 Corinthians 3:3 (KJV), “For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?”
It is important to preach the gospel to those involved in such acts so that they may understand the dangers involved in creating divisions amongst people. Such acts will lead to disunity among the people. This will further lead to suspicions among the members and consequently suboptimisation of the group objectives as the factions, created by the division, will likely work at cross purposes.
Whether in the neighborhood, offices, family, social gathering or even a church, divisions will create enmity among various divisions which can lead to unintended consequences. In Numbers 16, Korah, Dathan and Abiram tried to cause divisions amongst Israelites such that they got two hundred and fifty Israelites to challenge Moses’ authority. God had to come in His might to consume the trio to settle the division created by them. (Numbers 16:28-35).
If you are unable to convert those who cause divisions, God is specific on how to treat them. Romans 16:17 (KJV) says, “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.” This is quite instructive. It implies that as a born again Christian, you should not be involved in any form of act that will cause division among brethren.
Action Point: Are you involved in any role that causes division among brethren, it’s urgent that you stop immediately and ask for mercy.
Bro. Biodun Oyapero