Because it Matters…Unity
Unity = 1.the state of being one; oneness. 2.a whole or totality as combining all its parts into one. 3. the state or fact of being united or combined into one, as of the parts of a whole; unification. 4. oneness of mind, feeling, etc., as among a number of persons; concord, harmony, or agreement.
There you have the definition of UNITY. All of those nice sounding words that we know are only possible to put into practice with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The importance of unity in a church cannot be stressed enough; it’s not just important but it is necessary for a church to function in a way that would correctly represent our Saviour, Jesus Christ. When you consider the option to unity it helps to draw a more clear understanding of the absolute imperative of a body of believers moving as one in the unity of Christ.
We have all heard enough toxic horror stories of church splits, factions and gossip within a church that render that church powerless to preach the good news because you can’t produce fresh waters of life from such a polluted, spirit-grieving environment. Sadly, some of the ugliest conflicts I have ever witnessed have been within the confines of the Body of Christ.
Yes, I know that correct teaching and doctrine are important. Also that we will not all agree with one another in some doctrinal areas, but we can be in fellowship and unity if we have built a correct scriptural foundation on the basis of the saving grace of Jesus Christ and the inerrancy of His Word.
Unity matters becasue it is an expression of the Lord Himself. We can’t fake unity. Why does it matter? Prayerfully consider the following verses:
Rom 15:5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, 6 so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.
John 17:22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: 23 I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.
Eph 4:1 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
Col 3:12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
We are members of the Body of Christ. He has equipped with all that we need to work together for His Kingdom. In the end isn’t this all that matters? Our life for His Glory!
James R. Smith