Embracing differences: How to address division in the church

Do you remember during your school days how students formed cliques? 

Perhaps, you have even seen this dynamic portrayed in movies or TV shows.

Interestingly, a similar pattern often emerges within the church community. Just as students grouped themselves, congregations can sometimes find themselves divided into distinct factions.

Looking back to Corinth, the early Christians there faced a similar challenge. Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, openly addressed the division among them. 

Here, he emphasized the need for unity and mutual understanding. This historical example sheds light on a timeless issue: division within the church.

In this article, we delve into the division that once troubled the church of Corinth and explore how the lessons from this biblical account remain relevant today.

Cause of division in the church

The Christians in Corinth were splitting the church by supporting various famous individuals. Each group thought they were superior, and a sense of rivalry started to develop. 

One of the famous figures was Paul, that some believers in Corinth said they were his followers. Meanwhile, others followed Apollos and Peter, and some chose Jesus.

There are actually three causes of this division, which are the following:

Jealousy

Jealousy is when you feel envious of someone else's success or blessings, and it can lead to division. 

In Corinth, some were jealous of the attention others were getting. They wanted the same recognition for themselves, which made them separate into groups. This jealousy created a rift in the church.

In modern churches, some members are jealous of another member who gets a leadership role. 

Instead of being happy for them, they might start to talk negatively or distance themselves.

Boasting

Boasting means bragging about yourself or what you have done. 

In Corinth, some Christians were boasting about being followers of specific celebrities like Paul, Apollos, or Peter. 

They thought being associated with these famous figures made them better than others. This boasting led to division because they were not valuing each other equally.

In today's churches, imagine if some members constantly talked about their good deeds or achievements. While it is one thing to praise God for them, your words should not be intended to make others feel inferior. 

Quarreling

Quarreling is when people argue and fight over disagreements. 

In Corinth, there were arguments about which celebrity leader was the best. People were not listening to each other and instead were focused on proving their point. These quarrels caused division and made the church environment tense.

In modern churches, consider a situation where members argue about the style of worship music or the color of the carpet. 

If these disagreements led to heated arguments and people taking sides, it can result in division just like in Corinth.

Worldly behavior

The division present within the Corinthian church serves as an indicator of worldliness.

When Paul engaged with the Corinthians, he perceived them not as spiritual beings. Rather, he saw them as individuals rooted in worldly attitudes.

According to him, they are akin to spiritual infants taking their initial steps. 

Much like newborns maintain traits of their previous state, these early Christians retained worldly inclinations. They had yet to be fully transformed by their newfound beliefs.

Moreover, just as infants struggle with solid foods, the Corinthians grappled with the deeper aspects of the doctrine.

However, the issue lay in the Corinthians' persistent unreadiness for spiritual maturity.

They clung to carnal perspectives and practices as evidenced by their proclamations of loyalty to specific leaders. These divisive declarations struck a chord with Paul, prompting him to revisit the matter throughout his letter. 

Paul had previously highlighted the inconceivability of such divisions, asserting that they were incompatible with the essence of the gospel (1 Corinthians 1:13-17). 

Now, he extended his criticism, characterizing these divisions as inherently worldly. 

By engaging in practices reminiscent of worldly contentions and elevating church figures to celebrity status, the Corinthians aligned themselves with the behavior of non-believers.

Moreover, instead of progressing toward the goals set forth by Christ's message, the Corinthians engaged in divisive conflicts that ran counter to the spirit of unity and spiritual growth.

Dangers of division in the church

Since division within the church is viewed as behavior rooted in the worldly realm, it brings forth many potential dangers.

Here are some of them.

Unable to do the work 

The church functions like a well-fitted body. Each part contributes to the Lord's work and growth. 

As different body parts have distinct roles, members in a united church play essential roles in the body's growth and purpose. 

Division disrupts this harmony, either by missing vital parts or preventing proper collaboration. Thus, this hinders the church's ability to effectively carry out its mission.

Lost on what cause to follow 

God desires His people to share a consistent and harmonious message, reflecting unity in following Him. 

When a church becomes divided, its message becomes fragmented. This then leads to confusion that contradicts God's intention for clarity. 

Such division can cause people to lose their way and this is either by promoting or accepting messages that deviate from the true gospel.

Tears down a fellow believer 

Differing opinions on non-essential matters are natural. But being of the "same mind" means valuing unity over these differences. 

It involves embracing differing opinions without allowing them to overshadow the common bond in Christ. 

Division arises when opinions are elevated to the same level as Scripture, causing strife and discord. 

It is not only damages relationships among believers. This also weakens the collective efforts to advance God's work.

Not following His will

By aligning themselves with specific preachers rather than Christ, the Corinthians demonstrated a divisive spirit. 

Claiming loyalty to different leaders meant they were veering away from the core focus on Christ's teachings and unity. 

When division is prioritized over Christ-centeredness, it can lead believers astray and inadvertently follow a path that diverges from God's will.

Ways to address division in the church

To shield yourself from the perils of division within the church, take proactive steps to intervene.

Here are some you could follow.

Do not judge fellow believers

When you encounter disagreements among fellow believers, resist the urge to pass judgment on their intentions or character. 

Instead, seek understanding and empathy. Realize that everyone has their own perspective and struggles.

Do not create a faction or side with cliques

Avoid contributing to division by refusing to form exclusive groups or align with cliques within the church.

Strive to build bridges and foster connections with a diverse range of believers. Promote unity over exclusivity.

Directly take up the issue personally and privately

If you witnessed or experienced division, approach the matter directly and privately with those involved. 

Engage in open and respectful conversations to address misunderstandings or differences. Aim to find common ground and resolve conflicts.

Respect each member’s opinion

When differing opinions arise, show respect for each member's viewpoint, even if you disagree. 

Listen actively and engage in constructive discussions. Allow for a healthy exchange of ideas without undermining unity.

Work for Christ, not for others

Focus your efforts on serving Christ and His mission. Avoid seeking approval or recognition from others. 

By prioritizing Christ's teachings and values, you create an environment that emphasizes the common goal of spiritual growth and unity within the church.

Fight the internal fight

In your journey within the church, remember that there's an internal battle being stirred by the devil. While Christ aims for unity, he aims to sow division and discord among believers. 

Stand strong and united and fight against this divisive force by embracing the values of unity, respect, and Christ-centered purpose. 

Your efforts to overcome these challenges will not only strengthen your congregation. It will also bring glory to God's name.

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