Wolves in our midst.

[Grasshopper]

I would like to share this with you,all.For finally things have beome clear for me,and it was this artical that helped me.
After I leave,savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock...acts 20:29.
The church of Christ has to struggle against enemies from both outside and within.Attacks from outside often bring members of the church closer together.But attacks inside often cause painful divisions in the Body of Christ.
During his last visit with the church leaders in the region of Ephesus,Paul warned that there would be "savage wolves" among them who would mercilessly attack and try to destroy the church.
Who were these divisive persons Paul was talking about?They were probably influential church leaders who were bent on running the church-not according to the truth and will of God,but according to their own personal agendas.
Who are the savage wolves in our church today?
Each of us can likely name a few.But we shouldnt be in a hurry to accuse other people of this.Many of us can be like wolves in our congregations.How many of us say or do things that have the capability of tearing apart our local churches?
Do our words and actions encourage unity in our local congregation,or do the cause tension and division?
The time has come for us to examine our behaviour and repent if we are part of those who are tearing up the Body of Christ.
Prayers---Lord help me to never to become a savage wolf to fellow church members.And or to fellow,Christians.Help us all to combat division and seek unity with Gods Truth and His Holy Word.His words not ours.Gurard us against divisive ways,i pray.Amen.

[cmc]

Grasshopper,
Thanks for sharing this.

The time has come for us to examine our behaviour and repent if we are part of those who are tearing up the Body of Christ.

We can never go wrong by taking this advice, and isn't it part of our daily walk with Christ to do so anyway? I need to 'check' myself continually to stay within the perameters of true discipleship.

Matthew 12:25
"And knowing their thoughts Jesus said to them, "Any kingdom divided against itself is laid waste; and any city or house divided against itself will not stand."

I also think that the 'savage wolves' may refer to those who do not examine themselves and thrive on being, critical, contentious and full of slander, whether from within or without the church.
Nevertheless, my own attitudes, actions and words can be just as sinful and damaging to others... the difference is that your or my intentions may be far different and less 'savage' than those who practice this behavior continually and give no thought to it.
The sheep may respond to correction by the Shepherd but a wolf is an aggressive predator.
I guess I am saying that the nature of a sheep in the fold many times leads to such divisions and although it is still wrong, a 'bad sheep' is not the same 'savage wolf' whose only intent is to destroy.
I need to take what you have shared to heart and consider my own heart and words more carefully. Thanks for sharing.

[mygirls_mylife]

well put, both of you.