We usually assume the greatest threats to Christ’s kingdom come from outside the church, from unbelief, persecution, false teaching, or the values of the world. But some of the deepest damage to Christ’s kingdom happens when people inside it begins building little kingdoms of their own. I’ve seen disagreements inside a church become far more destructive than the issue that started them ever deserved. Many churches struggle with the problem of little kingdoms. Someone with lots of money and thinks he’s indispensable to the church. Someone who’s overseen something for years, like maybe missions, or music, or the building, it could be anything. But they think they own that part of the church. These little kingdoms can divide a church with strife and power. This leads to protecting territory, gathering allies, defending their reputation, and needing to win. Before long, brothers & sisters who supposedly serve the same King begin treating one another like competitors. We can sincerely love Jesus, serve His church, & know our Bibles, but still be tempted to use opportunities within His kingdom to pursue our own little kingdom. That’s what makes today’s passage so uncomfortable. Abner, Joab, and Asahel are all involved in the battle for Israel’s kingdom, but each man is also pursuing something personal. When they finally stop, brothers are dead, bitterness is deeper, & nobody is a winner. This passage forces us to ask: Are we serving Christ’s kingdom, or secretly building little kingdoms within it?
