What does the Bible say about sowing discord? Definition and Background Sowing discord refers to deliberately causing strife, disharmony, or conflict among individuals or within a community. The Bible repeatedly warns against this behavior, teaching that it disrupts unity, undermines trust, and goes against the nature and will of God. Rather than fostering unity and peace, those who sow discord harm relationships and create divisions. - Key Old Testament Teachings “There are six things the LORD hates—no, seven that are detestable to Him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that run swiftly to evil, a false witness who gives false testimony, and one who stirs up discord among brothers.” In these verses, the act of stirring up discord is listed alongside profoundly wicked behaviors. The severity of such discord lies in its destructive impact on communal harmony, and Proverbs emphasizes that the LORD “hates” it. “A perverse man spreads dissension, and a gossip divides close friends.” Here, God’s Word points out that individuals who choose to spread malice, lies, or hurtful ideas cause friends and entire communities to be torn apart. The emphasis on “divides close friends” stresses the deep relational damage that follows. Numbers 16 (Korah’s Rebellion) Though the word “discord” is not used specifically, the narrative in Numbers 16 captures Korah’s rebellion against Moses and Aaron. By questioning God’s appointed leadership, Korah and his followers created serious strife that led to dire consequences. This account exemplifies how sowing discord within God’s community can lead to judgment and destruction. - New Testament Warnings “Now I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who create divisions and put obstacles in your way 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.” Paul urges believers to be on guard against individuals who create divisions through unsound teaching or manipulative behavior. The passage underscores the importance of sound doctrine and genuine motives in fostering unity rather than discord. “The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery, idolatry and sorcery, hatred, discord, jealousy, rage, rivalries, divisions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.” In this list of fleshly behaviors, “discord” and “divisions” feature prominently. The biblical teaching frames these acts as direct opposition to the work of the Holy Spirit, who seeks unity and holiness among God’s people. - Consequences of Discord 1. Broken Relationships: Discord erodes trust and shatters friendships, often leaving lasting emotional and spiritual scars. 2. Hindrance to Prayer and Worship: Scripture frequently connects unity with acceptable worship to God. James 4 speaks to the strife that arises from selfish motives, and Jesus teaches reconciliation before worship in Matthew 5:23–24. Discord disrupts the focus on God. 3. Loss of Joy and Peace: The constant presence of conflict robs communities of joy, replacing peace with hostility. 4. Damage to Testimony: Jesus encouraged believers to be known by their love (John 13:35). The presence of discord can tarnish the witness of believers, hindering the spread of the gospel. - Positive Example: Unity in the Early Church “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. … With one accord they continued to meet daily in the temple courts and to break bread from house to house … They ate together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.” This description of the earliest believers highlights a spirit of unity, mutual support, and worship. The unity of the early church stood in stark contrast to discord and set an example for believers in all ages. Instead of sowing discord, believers sought fellowship, shared resources, and dedicated themselves to prayer. - Practical Steps to Avoid Sowing Discord 1. Guard the Tongue: James 3:5–6 likens the tongue to a small spark that can start a great fire. Being intentional about speech—avoiding gossip, slander, and unconfirmed rumors—helps maintain harmony. 2. Pursue Reconciliation: In Matthew 18:15–17, Jesus instructs believers to reconcile privately first, and if necessary, to seek help from church leadership. Taking active steps to resolve conflict protects against long-lasting division. 3. Seek Wisdom and Discernment: Proverbs 4:7 commends the pursuit of wisdom. Carefully evaluating one’s words and motives fosters honest relationships. Discernment helps believers identify when someone is sowing discord and respond biblically. 4. Cultivate Humility: Ephesians 4:2 urges humility, gentleness, and patience. Recognizing our own faults, being willing to listen, and valuing others’ perspectives all serve to reduce the likelihood of creating strife. 5. Embrace Unity in Christ: Remembering that unity stems from being one body in Christ (Ephesians 4:3–6) encourages an attitude of cooperation and love. Discord runs contrary to the intention of believers’ fellowship. - Encouragement Toward Peace and Unity Believers are encouraged to live peaceably with one another (Romans 12:18). The commitment to peace does not mean ignoring truth—rather, it unites believers through mutual accountability, sincere love, and a desire to honor God. Throughout Scripture, unity is portrayed as a gift and calling for those who follow God. - Conclusion From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible consistently condemns sowing discord because it undermines relationships, disrupts the harmony of faith communities, and disregards God’s command to love one another. Passages like Proverbs 6:16–19 and Romans 16:17–18 emphasize that God detests discord and calls His people to guard their hearts, their speech, and their actions. The overarching call of Scripture is toward unity, love, peace, and building up one another—reflecting God’s character and design for human relationships. By actively resisting gossip, seeking reconciliation, and embracing humility under God’s guidance, believers protect themselves and their communities from the sin of discord, living instead as lights in a world often marked by strife. |
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