The Danger Of Separating Yourself From God’s Work

THE DANGER OF SEPARATING YOURSELF FROM GOD’S WORK

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Numbers 16:1-35

Supporting Texts: Hebrews 10:25, Romans 12:4-5, John 15:4-6, 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, Psalm 133:1-3

INTRODUCTION:

One of the most grievous errors a believer can make is to separate themselves from the corporate body of Christ and from the work God has assigned to His people. The Christian journey is not designed to be walked in isolation. From the beginning, God established the principle of fellowship and unity, both in worship and in service. Those who withdraw themselves from God's work risk losing touch with His purpose and power.

There are many reasons people separate themselves from God’s work: offense, pride, weariness, disobedience, or personal ambition. However, regardless of the reason, the act of separation opens a dangerous door to spiritual decline and vulnerability to the enemy. Such separation may appear harmless at first, but it slowly erodes spiritual strength and divine covering.

Throughout Scripture, we see the emphasis on communal responsibility and unity in service. God moves mightily among those who dwell together in unity and who labor together in His vineyard. To step out of that alignment is to step out of God’s plan and protection. The church is a body—every part is essential. Cutting oneself off from the body is a serious spiritual mistake with grave consequences.

1. SEPARATION FROM GOD’S WORK IS A SIGN OF REBELLION

a) Pride precedes isolation

a) When pride enters the heart, people begin to see themselves as more important than the body, leading to isolation (Proverbs 16:18).

b) Disregard for spiritual authority: Rebelling against God’s appointed leaders often leads to separation, as seen in the case of Korah (Numbers 16:1-3).

c) Misunderstanding of calling: Some isolate themselves due to a wrong assumption about their personal calling, forgetting that callings are complementary, not competitive (1 Corinthians 12:14-20).

d) Ignoring godly counsel: A person who cuts themselves off from counsel becomes susceptible to error and destruction (Proverbs 11:14).

Biblical Example:

Korah, Dathan, and Abiram separated themselves from Moses and Aaron, believing they were equally anointed to lead. Their rebellion was rooted in pride and a misunderstanding of divine order. As a result, the earth opened up and swallowed them, showing the grave danger of separating from God’s work and leadership (Numbers 16:31-33).

2. SEPARATION LEADS TO SPIRITUAL VULNERABILITY

a) Loss of spiritual covering

When a person steps out of God’s work, they remove themselves from divine protection and fellowship (Psalm 91:1).

b) Diminished spiritual growth: Growth happens in the place of accountability and service. Isolation often leads to stagnation and backsliding (Hebrews 10:25).

c) Exposure to deception: Those who isolate themselves become easy prey for false doctrines and spiritual confusion (Galatians 1:6-9).

d) Weakening of spiritual gifts: Spiritual gifts thrive in corporate use. When separated, gifts become dormant or misused (1 Timothy 4:14).

Biblical Example:

Judas Iscariot began to separate himself inwardly from Jesus and the disciples. Though physically present, his heart had wandered. Eventually, he acted alone in betrayal and ended in destruction, having cut himself off from grace and accountability (Matthew 26:14-16; 27:3-5).

3. SEPARATION STUNTS KINGDOM ADVANCEMENT

a) Delays divine assignments

When individuals or groups step away from God’s work, they leave gaps that hinder progress (Nehemiah 4:6-10).

b) Breeds division and confusion: Separation often brings strife, factions, and confusion in the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 3:3-4).

c) Reduces effectiveness: The church functions best when united. Division limits the manifestation of God’s power (Psalm 133:1-3).

d) Encourages self-glorification: Isolated service often leads to personal ambition rather than God’s glory (Isaiah 14:12-15).

Biblical Example:

In Acts 15:36-41, Paul and Barnabas had a sharp disagreement over John Mark. Though both continued in ministry, the split caused distraction. Unity would have strengthened the work, and thankfully John Mark was later restored. But it shows how separation, even among believers, can slow kingdom progress.

CONCLUSION:

No believer is called to operate in isolation. The body of Christ is interconnected, and God expects His children to labor together in unity, humility, and submission to His order. Separating from God's work is a dangerous path that often ends in spiritual disaster, stagnation, or judgment.

We must remain rooted in our local churches, submitted to godly leadership, and actively involved in the work of the ministry. There is safety, growth, and reward in staying connected. Let us refuse every urge to walk away and instead recommit ourselves to God’s mission, knowing that His work thrives when we labor together.

PRAYER POINTS:

1.  Lord, deliver me from every spirit of pride and rebellion that leads to separation.

2.  Father, restore every connection I have lost in Your house and Your work.

3.  Lord, help me to remain humble, faithful, and submitted in Your vineyard.

4.  Father, let me never isolate myself from Your presence and divine purpose.

5.  Lord, heal every wound that is pushing me away from Your church and Your people.