VI. Fighting amongst ourselves
James 4:1-2
Introduction:
Our friendly fire, or internal fighting, has taken a toll.
(Here the pastor related the incident of friendly fire in Afghanistan in which Pat Tillman was killed).
This fighting leads to seven terrible things happening in the church:
The church leaders are distracted.
The noncombatants are discouraged.
The Lord’s work is disrupted.
The community’s seekers are disenchanted.
Long-held beliefs are disregarded.
The congregations testimoney is discredited.
The Lord is dishonored.
I want to suggest several behaviours that will help us create a culture of calm.
Obey Leaders
Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
Confront Troublemakers
Titus 3:10 A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject
Refute Heresy
Acts 20:29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
Meet Needs
If we would get busy meeting people’s needs, we would not have time to fight.
Suppress Legalism
Matthew 23:4 For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.
This does not mean getting rid of the rules.
Discourage Arguments
Titus 3:9 But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.
Forgive Sinners
Ephesians 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Conclusion:
Knuckle down and do the work of love.
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