How about a discussion of schism? Does that sound interesting? Among other things, in my discussions with a group of pastors recently, we touched on the subject. One of the comments made was the fact that, in some cases (I’d guess in most), congregations wait too long to act, and, therefore, end up having someone split their churches. It is always bad to put up the traffic light after the fatal accident!
Paul was clear about the urgency of the matter:
Reject a factious man after the first and second warning, knowing that such a man is perverted and is sinning, being self-condemned.
In Titus 3:10 he made it clear that quick action is called for when someone is noticed in the corner with a number of persons in secretive discussions. He said whenever a factious person is discovered, counsel once or twice, and if there is no positive response, get rid of him. There was to be no delay or long drawn out process in which there is time for him to continue his nefarious work. He is to be confronted, and unless there is a positive response (which I assume means repentance), there is to be no more delay.
Take to heart what Paul advises. Few things can be as devastating to a church than when someone succeeds in splitting it.
Books related to Reconciliation:
- From Forgiven to Forgiving by Jay Adams
- Handbook of Church Discipline by Jay Adams
- How to Handle Trouble by Jay Adams
Check out our online course, Church Discipline/Forgiveness taught by Jay Adams!
The Christian Counselor’s New Testament and Proverbs, translated by Jay Adams
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