Title

Valid Contentions

Scripture
The contention became so sharp that they parted from one another.
(Acts 15:39)
Devotional
We are not speaking of a couple of fickle church members quarreling over the color of carpet in the sanctuary; we are speaking of the apostle Paul, Barnabas, Silas, John and Mark. If these were not exempt from contentions and divisions, what would make us think that we would be exempt from them?
There will always be differing personalities, opinions and preferences. Many of these will cause the parting of ways of good people with a genuine love of God and the desire to fulfill His will. Nevertheless, because methods and inclinations differ, there will inevitably be the formation of new works and diversities of ministries. These contentions are seldom if ever pleasant, but they are real and often valid. It may not even be a matter of right or wrong. It may just be a matter of method or ability. It appears that the only way to avoid these contentions is to avoid growth. Nevertheless, if you are going to grow, you are going to change. And if you are going to change, you are going to experience divisive contentions.
Thought For The Night
“Eschew controversy, my brethren, as you would eschew the entrance to hell itself! Let them have it their own way. Let them talk, let them write, let them correct you, let them traduce you. Let them judge and condemn you, let them slay you. Rather let the truth of God itself suffer than that love suffer. You have not enough of the Divine nature in you to be a controversialist.” Alexander Whyte, quoted in Oswald Chambers: Abandoned to God
Evening Text
Acts 15:39: The contention became so sharp that they parted from one another. 
Looking for Answers
Evening Study Guide
Defining: “Contention”: Opposite tension, a pulling in different directions.
 
Referencing: “Cast out the scoffer, and contention will leave; yes, strife and reproach will cease,” Proverbs 22:10.
 
Applying: If you must contend, do so without being contentious