These verses provide some conflict resolution (or avoidance) suggestions to be used within the church body.
“The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people. But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.”
Now, disagreement is inevitable whenever two or more people are gathered – we all have unique collections of perspectives, perceptions and values and will never be in agreement on every single issue. Paul isn’t cautioning against disagreement, he’s warning against ‘foolish bickering’, arguing for the sake of arguing or arguing over non-salvation/amoral issues.
This reminds me of the story I heard of a church body that literally split in two because they couldn’t agree whether or not the speaker needed to wear a tie. That’s one example of the “foolish”, “unprofitable”, and “worthless” quarrels Paul is talking about pride / foolishness dividing people unnecessarily over an easily-resolved or amoral issue.
Paul strongly cautions against this type of quarreling and divisive behavior which tears people apart rather than uniting them. We are called to settle disagreements with maturity through respectful discussions and mutual agreements. If someone insists on behaving foolishly, tearing the church apart with their argumentative spirit, and they refuse to mature in this, then Paul gives us permission to separate that person from the group as a last resort.
I encourage us to consistently humble ourselves before God – truly humble hearts do not have a “my way or the highway” attitude because they become loving and compassionate of others. Once our own attitudes and behaviors are correct, we can then work with others in the church and aid them on their journey (we must first remove the plank from our own eye before helping remove the speck from our neighbor’s [see Mt 7:3-5]).
Father God, our Compassionate Lord and Savior, we honor Your glorious name. We ask You to please gently humble our hearts, making us seekers of reconciliation and peace with our siblings in Christ. May we be peacemakers in our own lives so we can help others do the same. May we mature and grow with the guidance of Your Spirit for the unity of Your kingdom. We praise You for Your consistent aid in our lives, moment by moment, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training