A Time to Unify

We’ve reached a point in the church where people are starting to divide over really small things—second-tier and even third-tier issues. And then subdivisions occur. Groups get smaller and smaller as their conditions for acceptance get narrower and narrower. Before long, you find yourself saying, “It’s down to the four of us, and I’m not sure about you other three.”

It’s not hard to find things that divide us. They’re low-hanging fruit. When we mistake our personal preferences and opinions for absolute truth, we can justify separating ourselves from just about anyone.

It takes a little more effort to find things that unite us. Or to recognize that the things that divide us don’t have to divide us. Instead of automatically separating people into categories of “us” and “them,” we can agree to disagree. We can leave judgment to the Lord.

That’s the direction God would have us go. Remember, we’re the body of Christ. We’re meant to work together, with each part playing an important role. You can’t divide a body or separate its parts without doing serious damage to the whole.

That’s why the apostle Paul issued this warning to the believers in Rome: “And now I make one more appeal, my dear brothers and sisters. Watch out for people who cause divisions and upset people’s faith by teaching things contrary to what you have been taught. Stay away from them” (Romans 16:17 NLT). It’s not just the teachings that are dangerous; it’s the divisions they cause.

It’s also why Paul wrote to the believers in Corinth, “I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose” (1 Corinthians 1:10 NLT).

Divisions in the church aren’t just an in-house matter. The implications and damage extend far beyond the church walls. You see, people are watching us. People outside the church. Unbelievers for whom the message of Christ seems almost too good to be true. Changed hearts? Transformed lives? They want to see proof. They want to see us walk the walk.

As far as many unbelievers are concerned, Christians are hypocrites until proven otherwise. When they see division in our ranks or hear us attacking one another or questioning the legitimacy of one another’s faith, it only confirms their cynical suspicions. They feel free to ignore our message and dismiss the Good News of Christ.

Paul said, “Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace” (Ephesians 4:3 NLT). Make every effort. That doesn’t leave room for half-hearted attempts. God wants us to prioritize unity.

Unity among believers isn’t just a matter of getting along with everyone or playing nicely with others; it’s also one of the most powerful testimonies available for showing the life-changing power of Jesus Christ.

Reflection Question: How can you cross the lines of division that separate you from someone in your church? Discuss this with believers like you on Harvest Discipleship!

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