Topical Encyclopedia The term "factious" refers to a tendency to form factions or dissenting groups within a larger community, often leading to division and strife. In the context of the Bible, factious behavior is generally viewed negatively, as it disrupts the unity and harmony that should characterize the body of Christ.Biblical References: 1. Titus 3:10-11 : "Reject a divisive man after a first and second admonition, knowing that such a man is corrupt and sinful; he is self-condemned." This passage instructs believers to deal with those who cause division by warning them, and if they persist, to reject them. The emphasis is on maintaining the purity and unity of the church by not allowing factious individuals to continue their disruptive behavior. 2. Romans 16:17-18 : "Now I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who create divisions and obstacles 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." Here, the Apostle Paul warns the Roman church to be vigilant against those who cause divisions, highlighting that their motives are self-serving rather than Christ-centered. 3. 1 Corinthians 1:10 : "I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree together, so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be united in mind and conviction." Paul calls for unity among believers, urging them to avoid divisions and to be united in their beliefs and purpose. Theological Implications: Factious behavior is often rooted in pride, selfish ambition, or a desire for power and control. It stands in opposition to the biblical call for humility, love, and unity among believers. The New Testament consistently emphasizes the importance of maintaining the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3). Practical Considerations: In the life of the church, addressing factious behavior requires wisdom and discernment. Leaders are called to protect the flock from those who would sow discord, while also seeking to restore individuals through gentle correction when possible. The goal is always the health and unity of the church, reflecting the oneness of the body of Christ. Historical Context: Throughout church history, factious behavior has led to schisms and divisions, often resulting in the formation of new denominations or sects. While some divisions have been necessary due to doctrinal purity, many have arisen from personal conflicts or secondary issues. The early church faced similar challenges, as seen in the letters of Paul, who frequently addressed issues of division and called for unity among believers. Moral and Ethical Dimensions: Factiousness is considered a work of the flesh, as described in Galatians 5:19-21, where it is listed among other sins such as jealousy, fits of rage, and selfish ambition. Believers are called to live by the Spirit, producing the fruit of love, joy, peace, and patience, which stand in stark contrast to the divisive nature of factious behavior. In summary, the Bible consistently warns against factiousness, urging believers to pursue unity and peace within the church. This requires a commitment to sound doctrine, humility, and a willingness to prioritize the collective good over individual preferences or ambitions. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (a.) Given to dissension, in opposition to the common good; turbulent; seditious; prone to clamor against public measures or men; -- said of persons.2. (a.) Pertaining to faction; proceeding from faction; indicating, or characterized by, faction; -- said of acts or expressions; as, factious quarrels. Greek 141. hairetikos -- causing division ... causing division. Part of Speech: Adjective Transliteration: hairetikos Phonetic Spelling: (hahee-ret-ee-kos') Short Definition: factious Definition: disposed ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/141.htm - 7k 244. allotriepiskopos -- one who meddles in things alien to his ... Library Copy of Letter to the Right Hon. Lord William Hervey Testimonies of the Ancients in Favor of Eusebius. To the Rev. A. Brandram. Constantine's Letter to the Antiochians, Directing them not to ... A Defence of the Doctrine of Justification, by Faith in Jesus ... That There is a Malignant Party Still in the Kingdom. Tenth Sunday after Trinity Spiritual Counsel for Church Officers. Sunday after Easter Seventeenth Sunday after Trinity the Christian Calling and Unity. Argument. Saturus, in a vision, and Perpetua Being Carried by ... Thesaurus Factious (2 Occurrences)... 2. (a.) Pertaining to faction; proceeding from faction; indicating, or characterized by, faction; -- said of acts or expressions; as, factious quarrels. ... /f/factious.htm - 7k Warning (30 Occurrences) Warn (35 Occurrences) Factions (5 Occurrences) Factiousness (1 Occurrence) Twice (44 Occurrences) Excommunication Divisive (1 Occurrence) Corinthians (3 Occurrences) Avoid (31 Occurrences) Resources What is the definition of heresy? | GotQuestions.orgFactious: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Factious (2 Occurrences)Romans 2:8 Titus 3:10 Subtopics Related Terms |