The Corinthians have been described by many as a “messed up unhealthy church.” They were totally consumed with issues of worldly wisdom, idolatry, sexual immorality, and yes, division. Division was one of the first topics in which Paul dealt with the Church of Corinth. He said to them in I Corinthians 1:10 (ESV): “I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.” He firmly informed them that they were not baptized in the name of any man but in Jesus Christ.
Division in the church still remains today, and it is getting worse. Some believers sing a song about “going to Heaven anyhow.” Only the righteous shall see God, so if you are guilty of creating dissension or division, you will not go to Heaven anyhow! Factions can ruin God’s plan for the church. Do not be a part of such; in other words, be careful of the voice of whom you are listening.
If we are not careful, division in the church can spill into our homes and communities. It saddens my heart to see the division that is going on in our nation, state, and communities. No matter your race, creed, color, religion, national origin, political party, etc., we all are one because the Word says, “For there is no respect of persons with God” Romans 2:11 (KJV). He loves all of us just the same because we all fall short at times. Therefore, unity in the church and community must prevail if we desire to be a part of God’s family.
This humorous, yet insightful, anonymous illustration, “Meet the Tater Family,” is a clear example of those who cause division in the church and community.
“Dick Tater—He’s the self-appointed potentate who feels everything should be done his way. He never serves or works; he just bosses others. Emmy Tater—She’s the member of the family who follows all the latest fads. She’s never really discovered her own identity because she’s always busy trying to be like someone else. Hezy Tater—When Hezy is asked to help at church, he knows he should, but he always puts it off. He’s sure he’ll get around to serving God someday. Carmen Tater—Carmen has an opinion about everything, and you never need to ask what she thinks because she’s the first one to tell you. Speck Tater—Speck’s favorite phrase is: ‘I love work; I can watch others do it for hours.’ He doesn’t get involved, but he’s a great observer. Agi Tater—When Agi was in school, she got poor marks on ‘plays well with others.’ Agi is continually in conflict with others, and always seems to be involved in strife and division. No matter what the pastor or church does, it’s never good enough in Agi’s eyes. Sweet Tater—
This is the only cordial and cooperative member of the Tater family. Sweet Tater is the ideal member of the church. She has a great attitude, is faithful, committed, supportive, and involved. She doesn’t dictate, imitate, hesitate, commentate, spectate, or agitate!”
Always abound in the faith, and never leave home without Him!
