Proverbs 26:20-21 [20] Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth. [21] As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife.
I was talking to a friend yesterday about how important it is to be careful who you are with. I told her about learning early in my marriage to be carful who my friends were. If there was a friend unhappy in her marriage and considering divorce, I should not be closely associated with her. Because hearing her gripes would taint my view of my husband and marriage.
The same would apply to listening to others gripe about your pastor and church. The more you hear, the more you are swayed. Be careful who your friends are and what they are saying.
If they are against the Word of God, stay away!
If they are against the man of God, stay away!
If they are contentious, stay away!
If they are causing discord, stay away!
Proverbs 6:16-19 [16] These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: [17] A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, [18] An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, [19] A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.
The first six are hated by God. Discord is an abomination to Him! Stay away from those that are causing discord lest you are an abomination to the Lord!