Read: John 17:20-21; Psalm 133:1
20 “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. (John 17:20-21)
Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! (Psalm 133:1)
On the night Jesus was betrayed, he prayed for his disciples, but also for all believers. One of the main requests he made was for unity. He prayed that as he and the Father are one, so may those who believe. The Father is in the Son and the Son is in the Father. Jesus’ prayer is that they may also be in us in such a way that we would be one as believers. When we are able to live with this unity, Jesus suggests, then the world might believe in Jesus.
When we look at the church today, it seems there are so many denominations and so much fragmentation. The root cause of all divisions is sin. If we were to hold fast to the core doctrines of Scripture and live them out perfectly, there would be no need to split. But sadly, none of us is perfect and over time, the splits have multiplied.
In our local expression of the church, Jesus wants us to be one. He wants us to focus on the essentials of Christian doctrine; to agree on our mission and purpose; to serve together as if one person contending for the gospel. We cannot compromise the truth of God’s Word, but on issues that are secondary or non-essential we can allow love to cover our differences.
As you think about the teachings of the first three chapters of Ephesians, what has Christ done that broke down divisions and brought peace?
Certainly, when there are differences on essential doctrines it is appropriate to leave a church or split. What other situations can you imagine that would also justify such a move?
In our next reflection we’ll talk about attitudes we can take and ways we can live that will help maintain unity. For today, what do you think is at risk? What do we lose when the church is divided and people aren’t willing to get along?
Whe lose our witness to othose who are observing how we move through difference. If the truth is not being preached or presented we cannot stay.