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The Cost of Disunity And Appeal For Unity
Brian Mashburn
November 14, 2010
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The Blessings of Dis-Unity
One of the reasons that Jesus makes such a strong appeal for unity among his followers is because so many followers of Christ justify disunity.
Why would any Christ follower justify disunity, you might ask?
Well, you might be surprised to hear that there are actually quite a few self-serving, self-exalting, self-righteous perks, conveniences, and "blessings" to always having an issue with your fellow Christ followers. Here are a few:
1. No need to submit to anyone. For there to be unity, there must be mutual submission. In a culture where "I have my rights," submission is difficult at best.
2. It is less work. If someone stands in unity with their fellow Christ followers, they do not just become one in mind, but one in action. For the lazy, disagreement (disunity) with their church justifies inaction.
3. Religion without risk. The unified church works as one body towards the mission of Christ to people in the world. This is risky, vulnerable work where Jesus says we will be persecuted, rejected, maybe even suffer. For the fearful, disagreement (disunity) with their church allows them to argue passionately about doctrine, philosophy, or strategy with their saved brothers rather than proclaim the gospel to a lost world.
Of course, there are some non-negotiables about the life of Christ that are worth standing up for. But let us all throw down any lesser disagreements we have that provide us cover for our lack of dedication to Christ and unity with his people.