Subject: Contention – A Tool that Divides

Scripture Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5: 9 - 15

Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 11: 16

Objective:To highlight the danger of contention.

Note: Christ said, “A house divided against itself cannot stand”. This well-known truth is especially applicable to the Church today. Contention and division are everywhere and are tools that Satan uses to make God’s people weak. The Bible preaches strongly against strife and contention among the brethren. Christ is looking for a people who follow His example in brotherly love. He was very concerned about this in His prayer for His followers. His greatest desire is highlighted in John 17: 21 - 23. The very testimony of our unity will allow the world to know that the Gospel which we profess is true. On the other hand, if God’s people become known for contention and strife, this will reflect negatively on Christ’s cause. As we study what the Bible has to say on this important subject, let us endeavour to purge our hearts of all contentious thoughts and unite in the perfect will of God.

1. What causes fighting and contention? James 4:1; Proverbs 26: 21; 22: 10; 13: 10

2. Do some of those who profess Christ sow seeds of contention? Philippians 1: 15 - 16

3. What should you do when challenged in a contentious manner? 1 Peter 3: 8 - 11

4. What distinguishes a wise or foolish man in the eyes of God? James 3: 13 – 18; Proverbs 18: 6 - 8

5. To what is peace likened? Mark 9: 50

Note: In the above scripture, peace is compared to the flavour of salt. Just as salt without its flavour is useless, so the gospel without peace is useless and ineffective, and becomes a bitter pill to swallow.

6. How will the world know that we are the children of God? Matthew 5: 9