United we Stand

Unity. A word that is being increasingly promoted in the church today – and rightly so. However, as we look into this call to unity, we can also see that, at times, a lack of understanding of true biblical unity. Jesus prayed that we might be one as He and the father were one and Psalm 133 states that God’s blessing is upon those who dwell together in unity. This, when properly understood, is true biblical unity and is healthy.

The waters become muddied regarding true unity when, for example, interfaith movements and even some Christian organisations call for Christians to stand in unity with those of another religion. The message tends to be that each religion is valid and we have no right to judge otherwise. It’s a mantra of “all roads lead to God”. Certainly, we are called to love all people. However, Jesus, who died ONCE for ALL, also said that He alone was the Way, the Truth and the Life. No matter how that may offend our sensitivities, there is no getting away from that fact if we are to be true Christ Followers.

There is also the understanding of unity that says ‘you’ should be just like ‘me’ if we are to be in unity. That would not only make for a very bland society, it is wrong. One only has to read 1 Corinthians 12 to recognise the weakness of this argument. The very diversity spoken of in this chapter and its application brings a powerful sense and outworking of unity.

Many scriptures speak of Biblical unity, each of them helping us to more fully understand and live out this most important concept. As we explore this over the next few weeks, let us be aware that, yes, Jesus very definitely calls for us to be one as He and the father are one. But He does not call us to be boring, all the same ‘beige’ people. He calls us to be one IN HIM and to bless Him and others through living out of our diverse gifts and abilities given to us by Him.

Don & Julie
With you on the journey