“Beware Of The Spirits Of Division”

Titus 3:9-11

Division is defined as separation; disconnection; splitting up; estrangement; conflict. 

There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil, a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers. Apostle Paul speaks of the division in the church. He says that they are worldly and unspiritual. In some ways, they were the most ‘spiritual’ of all the churches that Paul wrote to. They did not lack any spiritual gift. However, they were ‘unspiritual’ because of bad attitudes, which led to division. He points out three bad attitudes. These are dangers for all Christians, but particularly for Christian leaders. (1) Jealousy - He writes, ‘For since there is jealousy among you, are you not worldly? It is tempting to compare ourselves with others and, when we hear about some blessing another has received, to start thinking, When is that going to happen to me? We should bless others and not be afraid they will get ahead of us. We must not envy anyone else’s appearance, possessions, education, social standing, marital status, gifts and talents, job, or anything else because that will only hinder our own blessing. (2) Boasting - Paul writes, ‘So then, no more boasting about human leaders. Boasting is the temptation to compare ourselves with others, think we are doing rather well and boast about our ‘success’. We need to see our part in God’s economy in its proper perspective. We are first, mere human beings; second, only servants; third, neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything. Therefore, there is no cause for boasting. (3)Quarreling - Paul writes that their quarreling is another reason that he sees them as unspiritual. We must avoid taking sides, where one says, “I follow Paul” and another “I follow Apollos.” 

All of these stem from an inflated view of our own importance. These are ‘unspiritual’ attitudes. These sorts of attitudes are all too common in fallen humanity, infecting the world, and sadly the church too.

I come by this morning to let you know we need to understand that all of us are utterly dependent on God. One plants a seed, the other waters it, but God makes it grow. Planting and watering are important, but they are relatively easy. Only God can do the difficult bit and make plants, people and churches grow. Be bless and I love you!!! JE