ENSURING CONTINUED HARMONY OF GROUP STUDIES by John David
Here are a few Scriptures describing the danger that all growth group meetings face when one outspoken person begins to espouse and teach his/her own ideas in a forceful, opinionated manner.
A. Disharmony can thus be generated when that person begins violating the given code of courteous order;
B. He introduces a dogmatic argumentative tone;
C. This is particularly so when he unrelentingly maintains his position
D. Thus his repetitive, interruptive manner demanding the group concede his point can waylay the normal dynamics of a healthy group examination of the Scriptures
E. If not gently checked by the leader with a measure of firmness his persistence will prevent a return to the prevailing dynamic of harmonious group exchange led by the leader’s scrutiny of the chosen biblical passage in question.
The advice of Paul the apostle affirms these dangers and the consequences of allowing such to occur for the sake of free speech.
1 Timothy 1:5-6. …turned aside unto vain jangling … understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm.
2 Timothy 3:7. Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Colossians 2:8. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men…
1 Corinthians 3:19. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God…
2 Corinthians 1:12. …in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom …
2 Corinthians 2:17. For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.
2 Timothy 2:14-16 …strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers…rightly dividing the word of truth…but shun profane and vain babblings.
1 Corinthians 2:13. … not in the words which man’s wisdom teaches, but which the Holy Ghost teaches; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
2 Corinthians 10:12. …: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.
2 Peter 1:20. Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.
Quoted verses from the King James Version (Public domain)
Article by John David of Bible Simply