Dealing with Dissension

Scripture: I have written something to the church, but Diotrephes, who likes to put himself first, does not acknowledge our authority. So if I come, I will bring up what he is doing, talking wicked nonsense against us. And not content with that, he refuses to welcome the brothers, and also stops those who want to and puts them out of the church. 3 John 1:9-10

Observation: Paul is writing to Gaius, a pastor who is facing a troublemaker in his church. Specifically, this troublemaker, Diotrephes, is talking against leadership, refusing to yield to God-appointed authority, and actively refusing to support the missional ministry direction of Gaius’ church.
We do not know Diotrephes’ heart, except that he likes to put himself first. He may be an unbeliever, or a church leader. He may even be a well-meaning believer who is at odds with the leadership. If you sat and talked with him, he might point out all the ways Gaius is doing things wrong. He might even have a slew of verses to support his position.
But regardless of his position, his actions are wrong. Paul’s counsel is twofold: Walk in the truth and confront opposition.

Application: When I get whiffs of dissension, like all leaders do, I can tend to let that slide, to hope it will resolve itself. But part of a leader’s responsibility is to deal with dissension. The key is to make sure you are walking in the truth—both that your life is right with the Lord, and that your position is based on God’s word.

Prayer: God, I know that dissension drains me. I would often rather not deal with it. But good shepherding of people means helping them get on board with God’s direction. That requires truth and conversation. Will you show me when and how to deal with dissension?