Church Divided
I saw a large empty stadium, but I understood it had a purpose. That everyone who came to the stadium came for the same reason a purpose, other than themselves.
Then suddenly at least four flag poles with red pendant flags burst up and grew miles in the air to where the stadium wasn’t even visible anymore. All the flags looked identical. These flags that were meant to represent the purpose of the stadium now had nothing to do with the stadium. A sense of confusion and annoyance permeated my mind. The Lord clarified my vision.
“This is the church divided. The church was conceived to be under one banner, the Lord Jesus Christ’s. For one purpose to glorify Christ and preach the gospel to all the nations, making disciples of men. When man decides to add their own importance or plan to the message of the cross, that is when the focus moves from the finished work of the cross to something else.”
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“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18-20, NIV)
Church Divided
Instead, the church has divided into denominations and further divided even within these denominations because of man-made doctrine.
I am confused about how that happened, and why so many different churches exist.
I don’t have the answer. But it does leave me wondering, does the world see the division in the church and these high places of personal convictions and man-made doctrine, unforgiveness, and wonder what the church stands for? What is their purpose?
I’m not suggesting we can change church history. I’m just determined to check my own heart and actions to make sure I’m not breeding division in the body.
Sometimes we can breed division by gossiping about a church we once attended or even listening to rumors of that church. Other times, we could miss the opportunity to defend a fellow Christ-follower. Even listening and staying silent when someone bad-mouths a church is contributing to division.
I don’t want to fall into any of the traps we can so easily fall into. Just trying to get along or not rock the boat. Frankly, based on my own wisdom, I will go wrong every time. We need His wisdom.
“But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.” (James 3:17-18, NIV)
Prayer for you and me: We repent for any words, actions, or inactions that have contributed to the division of the church. We desire to be an obedient and working members of the Bride of Christ. Grant us wisdom to say our best yes to You so that we might walk in full obedience. Thank You, Jesus. Amen.
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