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Psalm 133 describes how good and pleasant it is when God’s people dwell together in unity. That unity is more than friendly agreement or simply getting along with people who share our preferences. It is a spiritual harmony formed as believers gather around one Lord, one faith and one purpose. Like many voices singing different parts of the same song, Christians are not required to be identical, but we are called to walk together under the lordship of Jesus Christ.
In Ephesians 4, Paul urges believers to walk worthy of their calling with humility, gentleness, patience and love, “endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace”. Christ gives different gifts and ministries to His church, not so that individuals can gain prominence, but so that the saints may be equipped and the body of Christ built up. Biblical unity therefore leads toward maturity. As we grow in our knowledge of Christ and become established in sound doctrine, we are less likely to be carried away by every new teaching, personal opinion or divisive influence.
However, Christian unity does not mean that every disagreement should be treated in the same way. Some truths are foundational matters of the gospel: Christ died for our sins, was buried and rose again; salvation is by grace through faith, not through human works. When the gospel is at stake, believers must stand firmly upon the truth. Other questions, however, are disputable matters involving conscience, liberty and personal conviction. Romans 14 warns us not to despise or condemn one another over matters that do not define salvation. Personal convictions must never be turned into laws that Scripture has not given to the whole church.
Unity that honours Christ is governed by both truth and love. Knowledge alone can produce pride, but love builds up. Before correcting another believer, we should ask whether the issue is truly a salvation matter, whether it is our responsibility to address it and whether our words will strengthen rather than injure the body. Christ calls His people to listen carefully, assume the best, apologise quickly and speak in ways that encourage others. When believers pursue peace, compassion, humility and brotherly love, the watching world is given a clearer picture of Jesus Christ among His people.
