We have just seen that the first main cause is our low state, which state Satan has succeeded in producing. It is then that "the wolf...scattereth the sheep" (John 10:12). "We are not ignorant of his devices" (2 Cor. 2:11). At Corinth it was carnality and the worldly-mindedness of the saints who failed to judge themselves that produced schism (1 Cor. 11:18). They followed their favorite leaders, reigned as kings, walked like other men of the world and the lusts common to the men of the world became rampant among themselves! (1 Cor. 5:1,2; 2 Cor. 12:20,21.) Therefore because of their shameful low state they were warned that "there must be also divisions (sects) among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you" (1 Cor. 11:19). Thus a complete rupture would become necessary.
It was this same principle that was at the bottom of the first division of Israel. Through neglect of God's word and disobedience, "King Solomon loved many strange women" who stole his heart from the Lord to their heathen gods. Satan had accomplished that, through Solomon's lusts. Therefore, the Lord rent the kingdom (1 Kings 11:11, 12, 31; 12:15, 24; 14:8; 2 Kings 17:21; 2 Chron. 10:15; 11:4). So many overlook this, but it shows how the Lord must discipline by sloughing off that which He can no longer tolerate. It may be kings, princes or influential leaders who become the instruments, gaining sympathizers and followers.
We have called attention to all this to show the vanity of so many vain efforts to thwart division under the pious plea for producing "peace". Such is untempered mortar—insipid. Human effort is folly.
We should contend earnestly for the faith once for all delivered unto the saints (Jude 3), and hold fast the truth as to the "one body", "the one place", our "acceptance in the Beloved", "the blessed hope". But have we held that fast which has been committed to us? (Rev. 3:11). Perhaps we have in a considerable measure outwardly, but how about our really giving Christ the first place in all our ways? If this is lacking, then something more than talking about humbling ourselves and judging ourselves is our only hope (Lam. 3:18-29). I must get at the root of the matter by beginning with and thoroughly judging myself. Nothing less will honor God.