The Proclaimer

The Only Basis For Unity

As we look at the division that exists in the religious world among those that claim to be “Christians,” we see basically two ways through which denominations attempt to achieve unity.  The first way is through compromise.  When an attempt is made to find some basis for agreement, conviction is set aside to accommodate unity.  The other way unity is supposedly achieved is through what is common referred to as “unity through diversity.”  This type of “unity” is based upon the agreement to disagree. One basic position of agreement is used as the basis of unity then all other differences are ignored.  Hence, all who claim to believe in Christ as Lord are supposedly united regardless of the specific doctrine they teach and practice. 

The problem with these forms of “unity” is that they focus upon unifying human relationships while excluding any mutual relationship with God.  What is needed is for all men to focus upon reconciliation with God.  As fellowship with God is established unity with one another will result.  Listen to the apostle Paul, “God was in Christ reconciling the world unto himself, not reckoning unto them their trespasses, and having committed unto us the word of reconciliation” (2 Cor. 5:19).  It is the “word of reconciliation” that will bring unity among the people of God as they are reconciled to Him.

As Jesus prayed for unity among His disciples He said, “Sanctify them in the truth: thy word is truth” (John 17:17).  As He sent the apostles out, His prayer for unity was for those who “believe on me through their word; that they may all be one; even as thou, Father art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be in us” (John 17:20).  The only basis for unity among the people of God is the word of God.  Through this “word of reconciliation” we are able to achieve and maintain fellowship with God.  As we all subject ourselves to the word of God in doctrine and practice the result is unity.

Certainly compromise can and must exist among the people of God in matters of opinion and expediency.  And we can, perhaps, ignore some differences and “agree to disagree” in matters of indifference to God.  But there is no room for concession in matters of faith and we must reject any basis of unity that either compromises truth or ignores that doctrine or practice that is contrary to God’s Word.  God wants unity to exists among His people.  But to find and maintain it, we must continue to “walk worthily of the calling wherewith ye were called . . . giving diligence to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph. 4:1, 3).      

                                                                                        -- Clark Dugger

The Proclaimer