The Keys to Biblical Unity

We live in a culture marked by division and discord, often manifested as two opposing societal ideologies: secularized tolerance and tribal nationalism. The church has been dramatically affected by believers who have allowed these cultural forces to invade and distort our hearts, much like a Trojan horse within the fellowship of the saints. If we (the church) are to walk in biblical unity and withstand these demonic currents of culture, here are two indispensable practices that are both helpful for us to embrace and worth considering in our relationships with one another.

We should learn to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). By doing so, we fulfill God’s command to love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:34-40; cf. Leviticus 19:17-18; 1 John 3:16-18; 4:18-21). Remember, God forges together an imperfect people through His Perfect Son. For those Christians who struggle in this area, it is essential to remember how much God bears with you and I. Likewise, as Paul states (Romans 15:1), “We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.”

We should seek ways to support one another in growing in faith. We are exhorted by Scripture to encourage one another and to live out our faith in the unique and diverse ways by which we are called, drawing us closer to God (Colossians 3:12-17; Ephesians 5:18-21). Remember, HE is the source of our strength and encouragement.

The key to biblical unity requires humility fueled by faith and love. It is a harmony that abandons selfish ambition and conceit, counting others more significant than ourselves. To properly understand biblical unity, we must first examine the example of our Savior in the Word of God, then live obediently.

Paul encourages us to “have in mind” the humility taught and exemplified by Jesus (Philippians 2). He placed our needs (for salvation) above His own life. He left behind His glory and majesty in Heaven to come down to us, taking on the form of a servant so that we might be saved. He prioritized obedience to the Father through humility, for before honor comes humility (Proverbs 15:33). Only by modeling His life can we overcome the many differences that divide us in the church.

Remember, worldly values and socio-political ideals incite ungodly wrath and inflate our pride. Self-righteousness leads only to self-exaltation. Only a Christ-centered life fosters the humility that unites us, leading to the Savior’s exaltation and glorification. As Paul teaches us (Romans 15:7), “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.”