1 Corinthians 11:19

For there must be also factions among you, that they that are approved may be made manifest among you.

'For there must be' -'Paul isn't suggesting that God has determined that there be divisions in the assembly.' (McGuiggan p. 156)

'must' -the necessity of these divisions, lies in the moral conditions that have been allowed to exist in this congregation. (Chapter s 1-6)

**WARNING: Congregations often create their own woes. Sin that isn't dealt with, subjects that aren't preached upon, brothers or sisters that refuse to reconcile, ALL ADD UP AND LEAD TO FURTHER PROBLEMS.**

'factions' -referring to the 'divisions' of the previous verse.

But someone might argue, then why does God allow such things among His people?

'they that are approved' -'those who have God's approval' (Bas); 'that those who are genuine' (RSV)

'approved' -1384. dokimos dok'-ee-mos; from 1380; properly, acceptable (current after assayal), i.e. approved: -approved, tried.

'When ungodliness manifests itself as division, keep your eyes open and the righteous will shine forth...So, the divisions act as. black velvet background..against which people approved of God are highlighted.' (McGuiggan p. 156)

'Such "divisions" have the net effect of revealing those who are genuinely Christ's.' (Fee p. 539)

'They serve to sift the loyal from the disloyal.' (Gr. Ex. N.T. p. 877)

'manifest' -'clearly seen' (Bas); 'recognized' (RSV); 'distinguished from the rest.' (Knox)

God expects Christians to maintain godly attitudes and behavior, even in the midst of congregational division.