In a season where divides are becoming deeper in our culture, it’s tempting for Christians to separate from one another as well. Whether it has to do with denominations, political feelings, race, socioeconomics, or other factors, division within the church is not what God calls us to in His word. There are many ways congregations and even members of the same church can disagree, but unity in the Church — the Body of Christ as a whole — should remain.
The Bible teaches that we are all part of the same body, despite our differences. If we believe in the death and resurrection of Christ, we are all brothers and sisters in the same family, and we should remember this in our interactions with others and with the world.
The fact is, we are sinners, and it can often be difficult to live out our calling to be unified. If and when we struggle to love our fellow believers and come alongside them, we should ask the Holy Spirit to change our hearts and unify us. Praying for unity is ultimately the way we pursue it, knowing that we are incapable of living the Christian life to which we’re called on our own.
There are several scripture passages that implores unity among believers. Ephesians 4:5 encourages the church to not only continually strive for unity, but be eager to do it. We should zealously pursue this unity, seeking to bring peace within the body of Christ and love each other well. Romans 12:4-5 also encourages unity, reminding us that we are all part of the same team, and we each have a role to play, unified by serving one master. 1 Corinthians 1:10 encourages Even in the Old Testament, God says it is “pleasant…when brothers dwell in unity” (Psalm 133:1).
There is enough division in the world without believers in Christ dividing among themselves. Our unity as believers — even believers who disagree or share different characteristics — is a message to the world declaring the goodness of God and the power of His Spirit. There is strength in unity, not only for spreading the Gospel but for our own humility and faith to grow. We love others better as a whole and make a bigger impact for the Kingdom when we can move forward as one, unified in one cause, to serve people in the name of God and glorify Him.
