The Walking Divided: American Tribes at War

American Tribes at War

Series: The Walking Divided

October 13, 2024

Dr. Clayton Chisum

There are many kinds of tribes: national, social, religious…

But there are also ideological tribes. Political tribalism is dangerous.

The problem with America is that

In the New Testament, Corinth was the city that was probably most similar to a city in the U.S.

Corinthian Christians were notorious for being more Corinthian than Christian.

1 Corinthians 3:1-4 

Paul and Apollos were two heavyweight leaders who had strong followings. Sound familiar?

The of Tribalism:

1. “you are still controlled by your sinful nature”  (v.3)
2. “you are jealous of one another” (v.3)
3. “When one of you says…” (v.4)

Which social media post would you click?

1. Illiterate Kamala Harris mocked as “dumbest candidate” in train wreck 60 Minutes interview
2. A future hurricane season with Trump in the White House should worry you
3. Cordial VP debate seen as “detour into substance”

The of Tribalism:

1. Tribalism “you quarrel with each other” (v.3)
2. Tribalism “When one of you says, ‘I am a follower of Paul,’ and another says, ‘I follow Apollos,’ aren’t you acting just like people of the world?” (v.4)

1 Corinthians 3:18 

America needs a :

1. Must have a
2. Must welcome

1 Corinthians 3:18-19, 21 

Christians must be “If you think you are wise by this world’s standards, you need to become a fool to be truly wise.” (v.18)

1. tribal lines
2. Crush tribalism under the weight of Matthew 5:43-44, 1 John 4:10 
3. Astonish the other tribe with
4. Carry your

Galatians 3:27-28 

Ephesians 2:14 (NIV)

Jesus isn’t calling you to be a culture warrior; he’s calling you to be a disciple who initiates his sacrificial love.

Discussion Questions:

1. What tribes do you belong to? Which tribe do you feel you most strongly identify with? How does that shape your worldview?
2. In what ways do you see tribalism playing out in your own community or among your social circles?
3. How does social media reinforce tribalism, according to the sermon, and have you experienced this in your own online interactions?
4. In what ways do you see tribalism tearing apart communities or relationships? Can you share a personal experience where you’ve witnessed this?
5. How can we follow Jesus’ example of crossing tribal lines and loving our enemies in our current political and social climate?
6. Reflect on a time when you felt divided from someone because of differing beliefs or affiliations. How might you approach that relationship differently now?