Unity

From the Scriptures we are told to pay close attention to a matter of utmost importance. “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.” (Psa.133:1). In the New Testament Paul follows this with the same message to the brethren at Corinth. “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” (1Cor.1:10). The Lord Himself prayed for unity as noted in John 17:20-23. Nevertheless, it is easy to see that there are separate organizations not found in Holy Writ, wearing different names, contradictory doctrines, and inconsistent practices, all of which shows that many have not followed the Bible where unity can only be directed. It can not, and never will be formed by the manuals and/or thoughts of man. Only will it be true when the Bible is obeyed!

We must notice two important matters about Bible unity. First, we find that it is “good”! God commanded unity because it is good, and for Him to be glorified. God is honored when unity prevails by His people, and they being of one mind, speaking and practicing the same thing. God is not honored nor glorified when those who are His are divided, and when fighting is found in their lives, as they continue destroying each other. Unity is good when based upon the Bible, and therefore, when it is on-going among the family of God, because it will without doubt eliminate the confusion that often exists. Anyone who works for, and prays for division is to be marked and avoided. The second important thing about Bible unity, it is “pleasant”! When we speak of that which is pleasant we will also speak of it being peaceable. Then, and only then the church can have a pleasant work and a peaceable work. This is the promise of our Lord. “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (Jno.14:27). Paul said that “the peace of God passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Phil.4:7). This friends, we can and must offer the world as we let our light so shine in this dark and sinful place. Does anyone think that denominationalism with all its division offers the world unity? How could they with all their conflicting doctrines and man made requirements of entrance into their bodies of on-going confusion and multiplied division? Never. We conclude that Bible unity brings peace and happiness, and is therefore good and pleasant!

. . . . Fred House