Well, I don't know what bible you have but my bible says this:
Romans 16:17 I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them.
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I've never personally experienced another Christian group that causes more divisions and obstacles than the LSM. I've actually used this verse to describe the local churches - keep away.
Titus 3:10 Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them.
- I agree, Amen! So this shall be my last post towards you my friend.
So we may say that warnings about being "poisoned" , was actually
deeply rooted in the culture of the New Testament church.
Some people may think this applies only to their own particular denomination or fellowship of their
own choosing.
Who? Wha... ah never-mind, would be an exercise of futility. But it doesn't. It is written not to denominations, but to every Christian in a locality, to avoid those who cause divisions. At the time, the only people who would have been causing divisions were those who were looking to divide, and create denominations, according to "I follow Paul, I follow Apollos" (1 Cor 1:12-13). And Paul asks the question in verse 13 "is Christ divided and has your denomination been crucified for you?"
Yes! Exactly! In the LSM, from my personal experience - the constant message of "I follow Witness Lee" caused me to turn away from this division
Why would Paul write this to groups within groups within groups within groups in a locality? He is not talking about not having division just in your own family, between husband and wife, but between whole groups of Christians, who we might call denominations today.
In other words if you are in a division /denomination, and think that you are not divisive because you get along with everyone in your denomination happily, think again.
I guess according to you I'm in a division being in a non-denominational church. I guess I was also with divisions while in fellowship with dozens of different churches across 4 different continents - serving the Lord and spreading His good news?
You see, the bible is consistent on these matters.
Luke 11:17 But he, knowing their thoughts, said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and a divided household falls.
Jude 1 : They said to you, “In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.” It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit.
There is a full list of scriptures here:
https://www.openbible.info/topics/division