In the body of Christ, unity is not just a preference; it is a divine command. The apostle Paul, writing to the Corinthians, exhorted them to be “perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Corinthians 1:10, KJV). Unfortunately, denominationalism has often hindered the realization of this unity, causing division among believers. Let us delve into the Scriptures to understand the importance of avoiding denominationalism.
- Foundation of Unity:
- Scripture: Ephesians 4:3 (KJV) – “Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”
- Explanation: The unity of the Spirit is the foundation of our oneness in Christ. Denominationalism, rooted in differing doctrines and traditions, can fracture this unity. As followers of Christ, we are called to preserve the bond of peace that the Holy Spirit provides.
- Christ-Centered Identity:
- Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:12-13 (KJV) – “Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided?”
- Explanation: Identifying ourselves by denominational labels may lead to division. Paul reminds us that our allegiance should be to Christ, not to human leaders or denominations. Christ is not divided, and neither should His body be.
- Focus on Essential Truths:
- Scripture: Philippians 2:2 (KJV) – “Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.”
- Explanation: True unity comes when believers focus on essential truths rather than non-essential doctrinal differences. We are called to be of one mind and one accord, driven by love for Christ and each other.
- The Body of Christ:
- Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:12 (KJV) – “For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.”
- Explanation: The church is compared to a body with many parts, each playing a unique role. Denominationalism can be likened to the body rejecting its own members. We must embrace diversity within the unity of the body of Christ.
- The Prayer of Jesus:
- Scripture: John 17:21 (KJV) – “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.”
- Explanation: In His high priestly prayer, Jesus prayed for the unity of believers. Our oneness in Christ is a powerful testimony to the world. Denominationalism undermines this testimony and hinders the world from seeing the transformative power of the Gospel.
Conclusion:
Let us heed the biblical call to unity and strive to avoid denominationalism. As followers of Christ, our identity is in Him, and our focus should be on the essential truths that bind us together. May our unity be a shining testimony to the world, demonstrating the love of Christ and the transformative power of the Gospel.
