Philippians 2:14-16 Blameless and Harmless

Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain. [Philippians 2:14-16 NKJV]

Paul is continuing his thoughts from the previous verses. Be obedient to Christ without bickering among yourselves.

It is human nature to complain when we feel slighted. Even in the early church we are told;

Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables. “Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business; “but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” [Acts 6:1-4 NKJV]

The disciples showed wisdom by not disputing the complaint, but by finding a solution. It only takes one person to complain, but it takes two to dispute.

Paul says, "that you may become blameless and harmless." Blameless means that you maintain a good reputation. Bickering in the church harms the church's reputation in the world. The world is eager enough to find fault with us, and our disputes only serve to give them ammunition. It is the opposite of harmless.

Consider what the world thinks when they hear Calvinists and Armenians arguing over self-determination vs. predestination. The content of the argument is meaningless to them, but the fact that there is an argument is significant. It tells them that the church can't even get along with itself.

We will encounter many Christians with different opinions, different interpretations of the scriptures, and different traditions. That doesn't have to lead to a dispute. 

Take communion for example. In every church I have attended, the elements of the bread and the cup are passed out to the congregation. This is entirely ceremonial and symbolic. My understanding of the New Testament "love feasts" is that they were a meal, like a pot-luck. Since I have a different opinion, should I, therefore, grumble about the "unscriptural" practice? Should I protest by refusing to partake? Of course not. When communion is served, I take part, recognizing it for what it is; a symbolic tradition.

Paul told us, "If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men." [Romans 12:18 NKJV]

If we fight and argue among ourselves then our ministry has no credibility.

If we are going to shine as lights in this world, then we need to get along with one another. We are meant to be "luminaries"; that is, we are to be like the sun in the sky, driving out darkness, and showing the light of the word of life.

Lord, please forgive us our disputes. Give us wisdom that we can find unity, and be of one mind. Please make our lights shine so that the word of life may go out into the world, bringing souls into Your kingdom.