Church Divider

Titus 3:9-11

9 But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. 10 As for a person who stirs up division after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him. 11 knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned

Notes

Paul instructed Titus to avoid foolish controversies and speculative debates because such discussions do not benefit the church's spiritual life. They distract from the most essential things of the Christian life. The focus should be on teaching sound doctrine and instructions on godly living. Controversial discussions that do not contribute to the building up of the body should be avoided; it takes wisdom and vigilance to remain focused.

Aside from avoiding discussions that lead to quarrels, Paul gave Titus clear instructions on how to deal with people who stir up division. The person who causes division may be teaching false doctrines contrary to what the apostles taught or causing division through their behavior. The bad behavior could come from a root of bitterness that poisons the listeners' minds, leading to church division or a falling away (Hebrews 12:15).

1. Heed the Warning

   The immediate context of the text warned against useless discussions that lead to division. Such discussions could include false doctrines or useless debates on insignificant areas. However, it could also be anything that divides the church from the unity of the doctrine and holy living.

   
   9 But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless (Titus 3:9).

   Application: We must avoid godless talk, which may include careless treatment

   of God’s word and the other sins that lead to division. Let us avoid the gossiper

   or whisperer to preserve the unity of the church community.

   
   

2. Two Warnings

   What should Titus do with the ones who cause division? He should warn them once and then twice. After which, he should avoid the one who causes division. Titus should not waste his time on such a person, but he should protect the church in Crete where he was serving.

   
   10 As for a person who stirs up division after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him (Titus 3:10).

   Application: Let us warn those who cause division, but let us apply Matthew 18:15-17. However, when it comes to a persistent church divider, after two warnings, we should not associate with the church divider. If the damage is widespread, we can use the exception by going to the church directly (1 Corinthians 5:1-13). The church must expel the church divider

3. Twisted Mind

   Paul revealed how he sees the one who causes division and who would not repent after two warnings. Such a person is warped, which means twisted and perverted. The one who causes division in the church community has a deep spiritual problem, corrupted by sin.

   
   11 knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned (Titus 3:11).

   Application: Scripture states that a church divider is corrupted and self condemned.. They divide the church with ungodly conversations, unbiblical words, and destructive behavior. They whisper what they should not; they break the bonds of the community. Therefore, do not be a church divider and rebuke the church divider.

Reflection & Discussion

1. What should Titus avoid?

2. What should Titus do with the church divider?

3. How did Paul describe the unrepentant church divider?