But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. 10 As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, 11 knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.
For several decades, corporations have stressed having a mission statement and sticking to it. Disney’s was once, “Provide People Happiness.” Every decision the company made had to answer the question, “How does this provide happiness?” Likewise, when my job here was church planter, I would ask how a certain idea helps plant the church. The church’s mission is to worship the Lord, teach the believers, and evangelize the world. Paul’s advice to Titus was to steer clear of everything that does neither of those things. The controversies and quarrels Paul mentions are a gateway to the divisions that ransack churches because they draw attention away from the mission of the church. That is why Paul warns against a divisive person, the one who says “Nay” to every idea, regardless of its adherence to the mission. This is because the mission is not important, only power.
Now Cape Community Church has finished the work of planting and will begin to train leaders and develop a new mission statement that will revolve around these three functions of the church. We have a unique opportunity to build a foundation that either goes straight or wobbles. These verses from Paul will help us develop as the body of Christ if we mind the pitfalls.
Dear Lord, thank you that you have put your followers in leadership of the church. We pray that you guide and direct as we lead your church. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Pastor Brad Boyer
Cape Community Church