Confronting Disunity
Key Verse
“Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering.” Matthew 5:23–24
Basic Biblical Understanding
Prior to reading this article, first read the article entitled “Confrontation.” That article shares foundational principles from Scripture for framing out all confrontational conversations. Now, let’s address confronting disunity.
One reason for biblical confrontation is to reestablish unity. Disunity always needs to be addressed. Scripture tells believers to have “unity of mind,” to let “no divisions be among you,” and to be “together in perfect harmony” (1 Peter 3:8; 1 Corinthians 1:10; Colossians 3:14). When unity is broken, confrontation may become necessary to reestablish unity.
Matthew 5:23–24 addresses the importance of unity and how disunity disrupts our worship. Sin always brings division and destruction. Disunity often fosters feelings of anger, bitterness, and jealousy. All of these sinful emotions remove integrity in our worship.
Jesus teaches us in verse 23, “When you present your offering at the altar (to make things right between you and God) and you remember that things are not right between you and your brother, leave your offering and be reconciled to your brother.” In other words, settle the breach between you and your brother before you try to settle the breach between you and God.
Jesus’ instructions are clear. Stop what you’re doing and go to the other person. Try to work it out. If the other person rejects you, ignores you, or hates you—that’s on them! You can’t change them, but you can take biblical steps to make things right on your side.
What if you’re not responsible for the disunity? It doesn’t matter! Chances are, there’s a little blame on both sides. What if they don’t want to work it out? That’s between them and God. Romans 12:18 says, “If possible (that means sometimes it’s not possible), so far as it depends on you, (you can’t change them, but you can do what’s right) be at peace with all men.” Have you taken the necessary steps to reestablish unity?
Verses (ask God to to show you how they apply to your life)
“Being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”
– Ephesians 4:3
“So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another.”
– Romans 14:19
Helpful Questions and Application
Pride is often the underlying sin that keeps Christians divided. Ask God to search your heart and reveal any areas of pride that may be hindering you from taking the necessary steps to reestablish unity. Confess any prideful tendencies to God and, if helpful or necessary, to fellow believers who can encourage you in your Christ-like development.
A lot of division is caused by misunderstanding. One person says something with one intent in mind and the other person receives it differently than intended. The same concept applies to actions. It’s very helpful to begin any confrontational conversation by humbly asking the other person to clarify his or her intentions related to the previous behavior. It’s amazing how many divisions are resolved by simply asking for clarity.
Additional Resources
Scripture references: Romans 15:5; Philippians 2:3; Amos 3:3
WordTruth Articles:
”Need More Love or Use the Love You Have?”
“True Love is Not Based on Feelings”