It’s time to consider the bigger picture. God’s purpose is ‘to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ’ (Ephesians 1:10). Yet while there are signs of greater unity in the body of Christ there is devastating division. There is only one Church. There is only one Body of Christ. There is only one Bride of Christ. Surely our priority is therefore to be personally reconciled to God, play an active part in His Church, and be prepared for His return.
God is at work to bring unity and ultimately, He will have His way. But where God is at work the enemy also schemes. It seems the enemy has employed three tactics to destroy a unified Church: distraction, deception, and division. The Bible warns us against such tactics, but we can choose unity, although it’s a really hard choice!
Over the past few years, it seems that the Church is being bombarded with potentially polarising choices while at the same time being presented with a greater call to unity. Social media provides a platform to post our opinions and too easily engage, even harass those with differing views. From the safety of our homes, once again we are taking sides and drawing boundaries. Sad when in recent times so many walls have come down. It has been so refreshing that the 90’s obligatory conference question, ‘what denomination are you from?’, seems to have been dropped. But has it just been replaced? Vax or no vax? Denomination or Network? Republican or Democrat? Small or large? Gathered or scattered? Inclusive or exclusive? Black or white? Fact or fiction? Woke or asleep (is that a thing?)? The list is endless.
The truth is none of us know everything. So much about God is a mystery. Our understanding is limited. Our starting point is brokenness. Yet, we believe we must have an opinion. And what’s more, we believe it’s our duty to challenge anyone who has an opposing view. Surely the way of Jesus is to build bridges not to build walls. Our highest priority is not to be right, but to love. To love by preferring and honouring one another. To love by searching for common ground on which to build. Isn’t love found in these familiar words: ‘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.’ (Ephesians 4:2-3).
Now before you think I’ve become too simple and idealistic; I understand that God’s Church will be full of differing opinions. It is important we study God’s Word to present ourselves to God as one approved (2 Timothy 2:15). It is important we seek wisdom (James 1:5) and the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16). It is important we learn to hear and obey the Holy Spirit who guides us into all truth (John 16:13). But let’s not pretend it’s easy. Let’s not become arrogant or conceited in our view and tempted to poke, prod and provoke one another!
So, how do we avoid compromise? How do we hold our deeply held convictions and stay united with those who hold equally deeply held convictions? I think the Bible teaches us how. Division is not a new problem. The early Church was full of potential division: Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, Paul or Apollos, slave or free, man or woman, meat or vegetables! If God’s thoughts remain higher than our thoughts (Isaiah 55:9), even with access to the ‘deep things of God’ through the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:10), discerning God is hard. Until eternity we will only know in part. So, let’s consider three ways to stay united.
Firstly, let’s stay open to learning and changing our minds. Rather than becoming fixed and immovable, let’s remain soft clay in the hands of the Potter. There were so many convictions voiced in the Jerusalem Council in Acts 15 when they discussed the issue of circumcision. Yet, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, they were open to learn and let personal and traditional convictions go. Instead, they united around a decision which personally I’m very grateful for!
Secondly, let’s avoid godless chatter, myths, and the promotion of ‘controversial speculations’ (1 Timothy 1:4). If I watched and tried to fully engage and understand every YouTube clip or blog, I had been sent over the past couple of years I wouldn’t have slept or eaten, let alone read my Bible or prayed. In all honesty, and humility, there is much I don’t understand about the world we live in or God’s plan for the future of His people. So, let’s focus on what is clear and can be found in God’s Word. They say that bank tellers can spot counterfeit currency not by studying the infinite counterfeit possibilities, but by becoming so familiar with the real thing, that a fake was instantly recognisable. Let’s prioritise getting to know Jesus rather than searching endlessly for more evidence to promote and prove our point. Life is much too short, and we have been given a commission to fulfil.
Thirdly, and finally. In Romans 14 we are taught not to judge one another but accept one another, even when we disagree. We are reminded that we must live out our choices in faith and obedience to what we have become fully convinced of in our own minds. Knowing that ultimately, our actions will be judged when we give an account of ourselves to God. Therefore, let’s not place ourselves in the position of judge or jury. Instead let’s show respect and extend the same grace and love we have received to those who are fully convinced to live their faith in Jesus a different way.
To vax or not to vax, should no longer be a question. Let’s give up our right to be right and instead make every effort to keep the unity of God’s people, His Church. Let’s be willing to walk alongside those who by faith walk a different walk to ours. Let’s not allow the enemy to bring division to the Church that Jesus died to make one.
Feature photo by Hakan Nural on Unsplash
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