In the context of biblical teachings, divisive individuals are those who cause discord and strife within the community of believers. The Bible provides clear guidance on how to identify and deal with such individuals, emphasizing the importance of maintaining unity and peace within the body of Christ.

Biblical Warnings Against Divisiveness

The New Testament contains several admonitions against divisiveness. In Romans 16:17-18, the Apostle Paul warns the church in Rome: "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."

Similarly, in Titus 3:10-11, Paul instructs Titus on how to handle a divisive person: "Reject a divisive man after a first and second admonition, knowing that such a man is corrupt and sinful; he is self-condemned." This passage underscores the seriousness with which divisiveness is viewed and the necessity of addressing it promptly and decisively.

Characteristics of Divisive Individuals

Divisive individuals often exhibit certain characteristics that can be detrimental to the unity of the church. They may spread false teachings, gossip, or engage in slander, thereby sowing seeds of discord. Proverbs 6:16-19 lists behaviors that the Lord detests, including "a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community."

These individuals may also be motivated by selfish ambition or personal gain, as noted in James 3:14-16: "But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such wisdom does not come down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice."

The Call to Unity

The Bible consistently calls believers to pursue unity and peace. Ephesians 4:3-6 urges Christians 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."

In John 17:20-23, Jesus prays for the unity of all believers, highlighting its importance as a testimony to the world: "I am not asking on behalf of them alone, but also on behalf of those who will believe in Me through their message, that all of them may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I am in You. May they also be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me."

Dealing with Divisive Individuals

The biblical approach to dealing with divisive individuals involves both correction and, if necessary, separation. Matthew 18:15-17 outlines a process for addressing sin within the church, which can be applied to divisiveness: "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 importance of attempting reconciliation and correction, but also recognizes the need to protect the church from ongoing division if the individual remains unrepentant.