For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you.
Divisions, heresies, and false teachings must arise among church members and among believers. These trials serve to make manifest those who are approved. They are providential means to develop character, refining true Christians, removing their faults and producing Christlike meekness and purity.
When an influential man takes a wrong course, the resulting crisis exposes hidden disaffection. Those who have had no harmony with reproof then feel excusable in speaking and acting out their unbelief. It is better for all to let such a crisis come quickly. Fear that churches will be endangered or ruined must not force a wrong step or a move in the dark.
Work that is not wrought in God will not stand the test but will come to nothing. God's work moves forward with or without any particular laborer. Arraying against those God is working with is arraying against God. Church members should therefore walk humbly with God in obedience rather than let contention and division govern their gatherings.
Divisions, heresies, and false teachings must arise among church members and among believers. These trials serve to make manifest those who are approved. They are providential means to develop character, refining true Christians, removing their faults and producing Christlike meekness and purity.
When an influential man takes a wrong course, the resulting crisis exposes hidden disaffection. Those who have had no harmony with reproof then feel excusable in speaking and acting out their unbelief. It is better for all to let such a crisis come quickly. Fear that churches will be endangered or ruined must not force a wrong step or a move in the dark.
Work that is not wrought in God will not stand the test but will come to nothing. God's work moves forward with or without any particular laborer. Arraying against those God is working with is arraying against God. Church members should therefore walk humbly with God in obedience rather than let contention and division govern their gatherings.