Without Murmurings And Disputings

by J. Taylor, Crowborough, U.K. | Category: General | Mar 1985

The sad effects of murmurings and disputings are all too familiar in the world around us. They are seen at national and political levels, in industrial relations, in matrimonial affairs, in the home and in individual relationships. Fallen human nature being what it is, this would seem to be inevitable. However, it is made quite clear by the word of the Lord through the apostle Paul, that murmuring and disputing should have no place in the Christian's life. The possibility of such a spirit penetrating into the assembly life would seem to be a real danger, as it was in the life of the children of Israel. We have only to read Numbers chapter 14 to see how the undercurrent of discontent led to open rebellion against the Lord, who had redeemed them from the slavery of Egypt and supplied all their needs. In writing to the church in Corinth Paul says, "Neither murmur ye, as some of them murmured, and perished by the destroyer. Now these things happened unto them by way of example" (1 Cor. 10:10,11).

In writing to the saints at Philippi Paul says, "Do all things without murmurings and disputings, that ye may be blameless and harmless.. . in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom ye are seen as lights in the world" (Phil. 2:14,15). So here we have the reason why a spirit of murmuring and disputing should have no part in our lives. We are to be seen as lights in this dark world. Although murmurings and disputings may be confined to our relationships one with another, the effect will be noticed by those around us, and our light which should be seen is dimmed.

To keep free from such a complaining spirit and to avoid disputings may seem to be an unattainable standard, but by the power of the Holy Spirit, who indwells each true believer, it is possible. Quoting again the apostle Paul: "Walk by the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh" (Gal. 5:16). We do well to remember the words of David in Psalm 133, "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity".

J. Taylor, Crowborough, U.K. | Mar 1985
General