Division

We look around the world, and we see so many wars and conflicts. If you think as I do, we can’t help but wonder why and what causes so much hatred among men. For the most part, all we want to do is live in peace, live our lives, and work to benefit our families. But some do not want peace; they desire to conquer, destroy, and force other people to live under their rule. This causes others to rise and fight to keep alive their way of life. 

The answer to the question of why is pretty obvious: sin has polluted the minds and hearts of all mankind. We cannot help ourselves; it is almost as if we must hurt others and make them think and act as we do. Right now, you are receiving this message and are in total agreement with this assessment. But do you want to know another horrible truth? The same sin of pride that wants others to think and act like them has found its way inside the church of Jesus Christ. Paul, in writing to the church of Corinth, wrote this in 1 Corinthians 1:10, “Now I exhort you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment.” So, the same sinful mind that pollutes the world in which we live has forced its way inside this church that Paul is writing to.

Pride is the root of all sin man commits. If followers of Jesus are not careful, we can find ourselves falling into the same trap the rest of the world has fallen into. Pride will cause the Christian to conclude that they are always right and there is no room for considering a different perspective or opinions among the brethren. Pride will always, always, cause division. The sin of pride will cause not only division in the church but will eventually be its downfall and destruction. The enemy is very clever, but in this instance, I do not think he has to work too hard to get man to fall.

The challenge and the cure for such an attack is found in one word, humbleness. Jesus tells us in Mark 10:42-44 what the Lord expects of His church, “Calling them to Himself, Jesus *said to them, 'You know that those who are recognized as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them; and their great men exercise authority over them. But it is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant; and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be slave of all.” Let us agree together that if it is up to us, we will not allow pride to rule in our hearts, and that we will humble ourselves to serve and not be served. Let us fight the good fight and keep the church as light in this world, not to be a part of this world.