Maintain Harmony
Notes
Titus 3:9-15
1) Avoid foolish controversy.
a) Reasons to avoid foolish controversies:
They accomplish nothing.
They are potentially divisive.
b) Ways to avoid foolish controversies:
Change the subject.
Avoid bringing it up yourself.
Walk away.
If necessary, avoid the person altogether.
1 Corinthians 15:33
2) Confront divisive people when necessary.
Romans 12:18
Galatians 2:11
a) Three types of divisive people
The false teacher.
The immoral example.
Sin has a way of training people to tolerate it over time.
The contentious spirit.
b) How to confront a divisive person.
Matthew 18:15-17
Personal confrontation.
Take two or three witnesses.
Discuss the problem with the church leaders.
The church leaders should warn the divisive person.
If there is still no repentance, the church should discipline the divisive person.
3) Practice servanthood at every opportunity.
Philippians 2:3-4