The Church United

I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose. [I Corinthians 1.10]

How in the world does the church fulfil Paul's directive here and still "preserve" the faith? Someone has to be right in order for someone else to be wrong... right? But then, how is the church to embrace harmony across its factions (denominations) when these factions hold so tightly to their designated doctrines?

Perhaps there is too much focus on too much theology and too much doctrine! Perhaps Jesus Christ and Him crucified is more than enough - and the rest is merely proud opinion? Now I am sure to draw the ire of many a theologian and scholar!

Is it not painfully obvious that the more the church has become well-defined, well-educated, and well-documented, that the more factions exist? And, I might add, the less power is evident.

I believe it is a higher calling to walk in simple faith. And, it appears to me, that God's power is found there.

There is more to this than I am touching upon here. But then, am I not proudly dividing myself from others to make such a statement?

Father, help us to embrace Jesus and each other in a way that glorifies You and promotes common growth and power throughout the Body of Christ. Help us to reject and avoid the elitist knowledge struggle that leads to division and ultimately to powerlessness. Help us to become "the church united" around our common gratitude to You for Jesus Christ.