What does the Bible say about church division?

The Bible addresses the dangers of division in the church, encouraging believers to maintain unity and harmony. Paul reminds us in Philippians 1:15-18 that even when there are disagreements in the way the gospel is preached, the primary focus should be on the advancement of Christ's message. In John 13:35, Jesus emphasizes that love for one another is the distinguishing mark of His disciples. This love should transcend personal differences and promote fellowship, as seen in the early church's practices of supporting one another, even in times of division.

In the case of John Rippon, the church faced significant distress due to differing opinions on leadership. Rippon embodied the spirit of love and forbearance by proposing amicable solutions for those who wished to leave. His actions demonstrated how believers should handle disputes in a way that fosters ongoing relationships and mutual support. The need for grace and quiet strength in the face of disagreements is particularly pointed in Scripture, urging Christians to model Christ's love in every situation to ensure that divisions do not lead to estrangement or bitterness.