I recently finished studying Acts chapter 15. God's Word is so amazing to me. Churches face division all the time. God outlines how we should deal with such division in Acts 15.
First, we must seek the counsel of godly men. During the dispute in Acts 15, Paul and Barnabas were sent to the "home" church in Jerusalem for counsel. Those they sought were the remaining original apostles, and church elders.
Second, you must never compromise on essentials to restore unity. In Acts 15, the matter on the table was the teaching that all must be circumcised to be saved. The outcome was to build a bridge between Jew and Gentile so they could fellowship together. This idea of circumcision for all was overruled to allow this bridge to be constructed.
Third, you should give in on non-essentials for the sake of unity. Don't stick to your guns on things like, dresses for woman and suits for men in church, or no dancing. You get the idea.
Another thing you will notice is they handled this division in a timely manner. This is a constant theme in the early church. When something needed to be addressed, they did not sit and ponder it, they acted.
If you get a chance, please read Acts 15. I think you will find it helpful and encouraging.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
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