Strong’s Greek 1370 (διχοστασία) designates the destructive reality of dissension or standing apart in opposition, a condition Scripture consistently warns against because it fractures the unity for which Christ prayed (John 17:20-23). The term surfaces only twice in the Greek New Testament yet resonates across the biblical narrative wherever relational rupture threatens the people of God.

Occurrences in the New Testament

1. Galatians 5:20 lists διχοστασίαι among “the works of the flesh,” placing it beside hostility, jealousy, and fits of rage. Its inclusion signals that fomenting divisions is not a mere social misstep but evidence of life dominated by sinful nature.
2. Romans 16:17 records Paul’s earnest appeal: “Now I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who create divisions and obstacles contrary to the teaching you have learned. Turn away from them.” The plural form underscores that dissensions often multiply, spreading like spiritual contagion when left unchecked.

Divisiveness as a Work of the Flesh

Galatians sets διχοστασία in stark contrast to “the fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22-23). Dissension springs from self-assertion that disregards the well-being of the covenant community. Scripture portrays such strife as:
• Antithetical to love (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).
• A sign of spiritual immaturity (1 Corinthians 3:1-4).
• A threat that excludes the unrepentant from inheriting the kingdom of God (Galatians 5:21).

Guarding the Unity of the Church

Unity flows from shared life in Christ (Ephesians 4:1-6), yet preserving it demands vigilance. Romans 16:17 calls believers to “watch out,” an imperative echoed by other apostolic warnings:
• Titus 3:10 – “Reject a divisive man after a first and second admonition.”
• 2 Thessalonians 3:6 – “Keep away from every brother who leads an unruly life.”

Divisions often arise through false teaching, personality cults, or unresolved offenses. Paul’s remedy is twofold: sound doctrine grounded in apostolic teaching and relational accountability that confronts sin while aiming at restoration (Matthew 18:15-17).

Pastoral and Disciplinary Mandates

Elders are charged to “shepherd the flock of God” (1 Peter 5:2), which includes identifying and addressing seeds of dissension before they germinate. Practical measures include:
• Proactive teaching of biblical peacemaking (James 3:17-18).
• Transparent conflict-resolution structures.
• Swift but measured discipline when factions persist (1 Timothy 5:20).

Historical Context

The early churches in Rome and Galatia were diverse, blending Jew and Gentile, slave and free. Social, theological, and cultural pressures made them susceptible to factionalism. Paul’s use of διχοστασία therefore reflects real crises—such as Judaizing influences in Galatia or disruptive teachers in Rome—where unity was threatened by doctrinal distortion and personal ambition. Early patristic writings mirror Paul’s concern; Ignatius of Antioch urges the Magnesians to “do nothing without the bishop” lest schism fracture the body.

Related Biblical Themes

• One Body in Christ – Romans 12:4-5; 1 Corinthians 12:12-27.
• Peace of Christ Ruling the Heart – Colossians 3:15.
• God’s Hatred of Strife – Proverbs 6:16-19.
• Reconciliation Through the Cross – Ephesians 2:14-16.

Practical Applications for Contemporary Ministry

1. Cultivate gospel-centered identity that supersedes demographic, political, or stylistic preferences.
2. Equip believers in humble listening and gracious speech (Ephesians 4:29).
3. Strengthen doctrinal foundations to inoculate against error-driven schism.
4. Model servant leadership that prizes unity over personal agenda (Philippians 2:3-4).
5. Pray corporately for the Spirit’s gift of harmony, trusting that Christ “himself is our peace” (Ephesians 2:14).