Complete Harmony

May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. [Romans 15.5-6]

I continue to believe we have entirely too many divisions in the Church today.

"Complete harmony" is hardly present across denominational lines. Consequently, we cannot "join together with one voice..." as Paul mentions above.

As I continue to consider the Kingdom of God, I realize that this Kingdom is not divided - and those who are divided are no part of God's Kingdom.

The truth of this is that any person or group committed to segregating from other believers in Christ has failed in living in "complete harmony."

People will always have differences of opinions. I am not suggesting that we lay aside our convictions about our faith and devotion. But what I am suggesting is that we learn to live with fellow believers who do not practice their faith exactly like we do. This is particularly important in regard to issues involving unclear passages of Scripture. Now, where the Bible is clear on issues, say, like murder, sexual sins, etc., standards must be accepted universally - no person or group can claim to be in relationship with God while actively involved in sin.

There is a burden therefore upon genuine believers to live in harmony while still teaching the way of truth. This is no easy task when convictions are involved and found clashing. However, this is also where the Church is to have one voice and prayerfully consider any variations it encounters in order to arrive at further understanding and revelation.

Living in harmony is not easy - never has been, never will be (on this earth). As stewards of the Truth, it is however our responsibility to prove to the world that we are undivided as believers and all work for the benefit of one Kingdom! It is this Kingdom-mindedness that will keep us on track! Without seeking first the Kingdom of God, we will wander off into self-promotion and therefore division!

Father, help us who believe in Jesus to live in complete harmony!