Proverbs 6:19
"A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren."
Written and submitted by Michael Plato
I was approached with a question, in confidence, concerning all the friction that seems to be going on in certain circles in Calhoun. What adults do to themselves and others is between them. It seems a shame that if one has a differing opinion or does not fall in line with one group or another, it seems to just draw contempt and ire. With the advent of social media, like Facebook, one can say many hurtful things, block the individual from responding, and then mock them to others. Fortunately, that is the exception to the rule. On the positive side, it forces us sometimes to examine things we might never have thought of otherwise.
As an example, a week or so ago, a dear friend and person we care about and love, Stacy Hickman, posted an article on what could be referred to as how we treat others. It caught my attention. As a Christian, I am far from perfect. Quite possibly I am in the running for the most-tenured sinner ever! I try to treat others with respect and hopefully, they respond in kind. We are all sinners saved by grace. But not everyone has that point of view.
Stacy’s article challenged me. My Bible tells me to judge myself so that I can correct any abhorrent behavior and will not hopefully have God so much go so heavily into me on judgment day. I knew Stacy was not referring to me per se, but it was a wake-up call and a great opportunity for a self-examination. As I was doing this, concurrently with my daily prayers, I was led to a verse(s) that I felt led to examine.
As I was studying, another issue came up. I was approached by a parent of a middle schooler who happened to see something on a Facebook thread that was confusing to them. They saw a post where someone commented that concerning the Mayor of Grantsville, this person thought it was “time to get out the torches and pitchforks, time to get rid of the mayor and council.” The child assumed that this person wanted to either hurt really bad or kill the Mayor and the City Council! The child asked (and I quote with permission), “My Sunday school teacher said that we are to love God with all our heart and our neighbor as yourself. What did the mayor and city council do that so many people want to hurt him? Are they Christians?" The parent asked me for advice on how to approach this with the child, after of course, they calmed the fear.
Ironically, I was already studying this particular verse thanks to Stacy, and it led me to the following response. I will share a portion as to what my answer was to this question. Also, This response just came from left field. I cannot truthfully confirm the author. I searched my files on the computer and it came up. I may have written it, maybe it was one of those tag team things Earl and I used to do where one would start a topic, send it to the other, make changes, add or subtract etc., until we reached a finished paper (I miss all this back and forth Earl, you always challenged.) or maybe it was just something I saved, I truly do not remember. But it is worded in a way that in my opinion answers it perfectly. So glory be to God for opening it up to me. Here it is:
Stirring up conflict
The seventh and last abomination to God’s soul, Proverbs 6:19: “a person who stirs up conflict in the community.”
Conflict is part of life, but to consistently be the generator of that conflict is a sin.
In the book of Philippians, Paul repeatedly addresses the subject of conflict. It must have been part of their church as much as it is part of many of our churches, and many of our lives. But as Paul (and Solomon) teaches us, conflict isn’t the problem; a contentious spirit, demeanor, and behavior are the problem.
Phil. 1.27: “Conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.” That’s a good watchword for all conflict and disagreements. But then he goes on to teach them to stand firm in “one spirit, contending…” Paul is talking about teamwork. As athletes on a team strive for the same goal. As soldiers contend with their forces against another’s in battle.
Alexander the Great changed warfare. Instead of a battle being every man for himself as the two sides clashed, Alexander had his soldiers hook their shields together to fight as one unit. And because they acted as a unit instead of individuals, they were invincible.
How is it possible that so many different individuals, who have different perspectives and different opinions, work in unity? He explains it in Phil. 2.2-9. “Be like-minded. It refers to the attitude of the mind—to the WAY one thinks rather than WHAT. It allows people to disagree without generating conflict.”
Same love for God – driven by the same urge and desire
One in spirit – souls that beat together, in tune with Christ and each other.
One on purpose – like clocks that strike at the same moment. Identity of ideas and harmony of feelings, despite not always agreeing.
Exclude selfish ambition and vain conceit
Look to the interests of others
Be a self-emptying, humble servant like Jesus.
It is the same qualities taught in Proverbs that make it possible: meekness, faith, power, and wisdom.
Phil. 2.14 says we should do everything without arguing. It has been said, “Jesus can turn water into wine, but he can’t turn your whining into anything.” Touche’.
We are called to be peacemakers (Mt. 5.9), and as much as it depends on us, to live in peace with all men (Rom. 12.18; 1 Cor. 7.15; 2 Cor. 13.11; 1 Thes. 5.13; Heb. 12.14).
That’s the difference between disagreement and conflict. There’s nothing wrong with disagreement. It’s not only expected, but it can be tremendously fruitful in many ways. We’re not supposed to just close our eyes and act stupid and agree to whatever anyone says in the name of false unity.
What’s wrong is the contentious spirit that wants to push his or her own ideas, pursue one’s own position or opinion, is motivated by pride, just wants to put others in their place, is selfishly ambitious, etc. etc. That’s what destroys a community. To paraphrase Sun Tzu— “A king will burn down the kingdom in order to rule over the ashes!”
So why am I sharing this, even though a very few will take offense as it being personal (which it is not. I have never hidden behind anything and always try to back up my statements with facts as I know them) because a select few wish for anything but peace and harmony. Also because words hurt. Why should a middle schooler, who has enough things going on in their life being a kid, be subjected to the irresponsible ramblings of a hate-filled rant, in order to exalt their superiority and show their dedication to their cause in order to make themselves known among their peers?
Same for adults who are vilified for having a differing opinion. Even if it is just an off-the-cuff remark, kids do not know it. That’s where I take umbrage. If you take offense to this article, I am sorry. Unfriend me. Others have recently. But as an American citizen, I still believe that our constitution still allows me to speak and believe for what I deem right. Same for all citizens. You should not be shunned or verbally attacked because you disagree.
Someone pointed out this week that if a person unfriends you because of a disagreement, fine, they obviously were never your friend to begin with. People have moved out of our county for various related reasons, and I know of two others waiting to sell. Why? Because of all the divisions.
I am asking the Christians who read this to at least give it some thought. The world thinks this is foolishness and weakness. Being a Christian is more than posting a Bible verse or two! It is a lifestyle! I can speak because the good Lord corrects me every single day. Thank God for repentance.
What do you think? All comments are welcome. Please share your thoughts respectfully. Disrespectful language or threats will not be tolerated and reported. Thank you and may God Bless you all!