How to Keep Unity in the Body
Have you ever pondered why there are so many churches? There is a substantial amount of disunity within the Christian church, primarily stemming from differences in beliefs.
Unity and peace are crucial within the church; Ephesians 4:3 encourages us to be
"endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."
Furthermore, in 1 Corinthians 1:10-11, the Apostle Paul states,
"Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. [11] For it has been declared to me about you… that there are contentions among you."
But how do we create unity in the body of Christ when there are so many different beliefs about God out there? How do we avoid contentions and join together in the same mind?
First, we must determine whether the belief differences pertain to essential doctrinal truths or merely personal preferences or opinions. Trivialities like the pastor's accent, someone's hairstyle, or their political views are not biblically valid reasons to disunite. Regarding disagreements on significant doctrinal issues, we essentially have three choices:
We can be silent and not mention our disagreements because “what’s the big deal anyway.”
We can discuss our differences, but “agree to disagree” whenever there’s friction. One person or both people stay wrong.
We can speak the truth in love and correct the errors with the Word of God until both are right (Eph 4:15)
Real Christian unity and peace stem from a shared understanding of truth, attainable from a literal interpretation of the Bible. The church's function, indeed, is to be the pillar and ground of truth, and we're called to be like-minded (1Ti 3:15, Php 2:1-5).
Regrettably, many churches and Christians opt for the first two choices, favoring a superficial semblance of peace and unity over God's truth and the mutual edification of the Body. This approach deviates from God's design. We're explicitly warned in 1 Corinthians 15:33: “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.”
Your beliefs influence your actions. When Christians cannot engage in sincere conversations about Biblical truth, we establish an environment conducive to ignorance, sin, and superficial relationships.
God's will for us today is that people would be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth (1Ti 2:4). We can only fulfill the latter part of His will by having conversations about God's word in a spirit of meekness and love (Eph 4:1-3). Without speaking the truth in love, we cannot fully mature in Christ. If we wish to avoid being stunted, unstable, spiritual babies swayed by every new doctrine we encounter, we must earnestly discuss and seek the truth (Eph 4:14-15).
Unity starts with humble conversations around God’s Word. Although people can err, God's Word never does. It's the ultimate truth source and alleviates disagreements since the authority lies not with the individuals but with God and His words. It’s not about either person “being right,” but pointing to a God that is always right and makes us righteous in Him. Even if it’s uncomfortable at times and our flesh can get in the way, let us charitably correct, rebuke, and exhort one another to walk according to the high calling we have in Christ.
