Tuesday, June 14, 2016

Tues Devo: The pairing of unity and division

Hello,

The last couple weeks I have been thinking about the unique pairing of ideas we are presented with as we follow Jesus. One of those is seeking unity, while knowing that our beliefs naturally bring division.

How can this be? Twice in the gospel of John the words of Jesus brought division in the crowd:
7:43 “So a division occurred in the crowd because of Him.” (NASB)
10:19 “A division occurred again among the Jews because of these words.” (NASB)

But, we are called to unity multiple times. Some examples:
Ephesians 4:3 “being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”
Colossians 3:14 “Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.”

So – what are we to do? Jesus brought division, but we are instructed to work towards unity. If you look at the verses about unity a couple themes will stand out. First is the audience. This is directed to believers. Many times this is also directed at believers towards other followers of Christ – though not always – we are also told in Romans 12:18 “If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men” (NASB)
The second theme that stands out to me about unity is that is executed by love, and that love is driven by our relationship with Jesus.

This is where the division comes. A relationship with Jesus stands for something. He is absolute truth. Whenever you stand for something, there will be those who oppose. Our call to unity is not to be at the cost of our obedience.
Rather, our call to unity to act in love – without compromise towards sin – to all, especially those who are followers of Christ. The commitment to Him and continued displays of love will give us the opportunity to share our source – Jesus Christ as the hope for others.

Have a blessed day,


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