The Dangers of Divisive Mentality

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Seventh Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mk 9:38-40*

*First Reading : Sir 4:11-19*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 119:165, 168, 171, 172, 174, 175*

*The Dangers of Divisive Mentality*

Divisive mindset is very dangerous. It weakens the unity among the believers and the strength of the Church of Christ. 

Therefore, Jesus warns against such an attitude in our life 

*1) Division Creates Barriers to God’s Work*

The disciples assumed that only those within their group had the authority to act in Jesus’ name. 

This exclusive mindset could have stopped a person who was genuinely doing God’s work.

In Acts 10, Peter initially resisted preaching to Gentiles, but God revealed that salvation was for all.

When we become too focused on who belongs to *our group,* we risk blocking the work of the Holy Spirit.

*2) Division Breeds Spiritual Pride*

John and the disciples may have felt a sense of exclusivity—believing that they alone had the right to minister in Jesus’ name.

However, Jesus rebuked this attitude, reminding them that God works beyond their circle.

Paul warns against boasting about human leaders in 1 Corinthians 1:12-13, saying: *Is Christ divided?*

A divisive mindset leads to spiritual pride, where people believe their way is the only right way, forgetting that all true ministry belongs to Christ.

*3) Division Weakens the Unity of the Church*

Jesus prayed for unity among His followers in John 17:20-23, showing that unity is a reflection of God’s love. 

However, when Christians become divided over denominations, traditions, or leadership, it harms the mission of the Church.

When Christians fight among themselves, they lose focus on their true mission. 

The true mission is spreading the Gospel to all

*4) Division Distracts from the Real Enemy*

A divisive mindset makes people see fellow Christians as opponents rather than allies in Christ.

But the real enemy is Satan, not other believers, who has to be defeated, through the name of Jesus and through the power of prayer 

When believers attack each other instead of working together, they weaken their collective power against the enemy.

*5) Division Can Lead to Hypocrisy*

A judgmental attitude often blinds people to their own faults while focusing on the perceived shortcomings of others.

Matthew 7:1-5 warns against judging others without first examining ourselves.

A divisive spirit can cause people to elevate their own righteousness while condemning others unfairly.

*6) Personal Application*

*Seek unity, not division*—Encourage cooperation among believers rather than focusing on differences.

*Be humble*—Remember that God’s work is greater than any one person or group.

*Focus on the mission*—Spreading the Gospel is more important than proving who is right.

A divisive tendency leads to spiritual pride, weakens the Church, and distracts from God’s mission. 

Jesus teaches that whoever is not against Him is for Him, urging us to support and encourage all who serve Him faithfully.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*