Division Within The Church

 It was not only in Paul's days that such divisive practices were evident within the Church, but today, similar divisive things are taking place which promote division within the Body of Christ and criticism of other Christian brothers and sisters, which causes confusion in the congregation.
 Paul clearly teaches that those that engage in such divisive tactics within a church congregation should receive appropriate warnings from the elders. However, should such a person continue in their disruptive behavior, then they should be removed from the church, "knowing that such a person is perverted and is sinning, being self-condemned."
 In his epistle to Titus, Paul gives excellent instruction and great encouragement, but he also considers it necessary to give wise advice on how to deal with those that become divisive within a church fellowship. Not only does such a one become unprofitable in a congregation if he or she will not mend their ways, but their very behavior condemns them and identifies him or her as unteachable.
 How important that the wise teachings of Paul, on Division Within The Church, are applied in congregations today. If men and women are to grow in grace and in a knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
You may be sure that such people are warped and sinful; they are self-condemned.

Our United Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the wise instruction of Paul about division within the church and the need to address those that are divisive. Keep us from becoming entrapped in any form of legalism, and help us to recognize and avoid many of the heresies, unbiblical teachings, and legalistic rituals, that are infiltrating so many congregations today. Give church elders the wisdom and discernment to address any division within the Body of Christ, speedily, wisely, and biblically, so that others may not be misled. This we ask in Jesus' name, AMEN.