In the Christian faith, dealing with divisive individuals is a matter of significant concern, as unity within the body of Christ is a recurring theme throughout the New Testament. Divisiveness can disrupt the harmony and mission of the church, and Scripture provides guidance on how to address such challenges.

Biblical Warnings Against Divisiveness

The Bible explicitly warns against divisive behavior and those who cause division within the church. In Romans 16:17-18, the Apostle Paul advises believers, "Now I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who create divisions and obstacles that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Turn away from them. For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery, they deceive the hearts of the naive" . This passage underscores the importance of vigilance and discernment in identifying those who may lead others astray.

Similarly, in Titus 3:10-11, Paul instructs, "Reject a divisive man after a first and second admonition, knowing that such a man is corrupt and sinful; he is self-condemned" . This directive emphasizes the need for corrective action and, if necessary, separation from those who persist in causing division after being warned.

The Role of Church Leadership

Church leaders bear a particular responsibility in addressing divisiveness. In 1 Corinthians 1:10, Paul appeals to the Corinthian church, "I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree together, so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be united in mind and conviction" . Leaders are called to foster unity and address issues that threaten the cohesion of the congregation.

Elders and pastors are tasked with maintaining doctrinal purity and relational harmony. In Acts 20:28-30, Paul warns the Ephesian elders, "Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood. I know that after my departure, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number, men will rise up and distort the truth to draw away disciples after them" . This passage highlights the vigilance required of church leaders to protect the community from internal and external threats.

Approach to Correction and Restoration

The biblical approach to dealing with divisive individuals involves both correction and the hope of restoration. Matthew 18:15-17 outlines a process for addressing sin within the church: "If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.' If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, regard him as you would a pagan or a tax collector" . This process emphasizes the goal of reconciliation while also providing a framework for escalating action if necessary.

The Call to Unity and Peace

The overarching biblical mandate is to pursue peace and unity within the church. Ephesians 4:3-6 exhorts believers to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all" . This passage calls Christians to prioritize unity, recognizing the shared foundation of their faith.

In summary, dealing with divisive people in the church requires a balance of discernment, correction, and a commitment to unity. The biblical approach involves identifying and addressing divisive behavior, while always aiming for restoration and the preservation of peace within the body of Christ.