Work to be Perfectly United in Mind and Thought

[10] “I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.” – 1 Corinthians 1:10 (NIV)

One of Paul’s growing concerns regarding the believers in certain churches he planted was that they should work to be perfectly united in mind and thought. That goal was not usually met in several places, even in home churches back then, because some Christians held diverse doctrines preached by different ministers.

In the Corinthian church, some were bent on following Paul’s teachings, while others were following Cephas (Peter) and Apollos’ teachings individually. There was no doubt that none of these three great preachers had slight differences in their doctrines and loyalty to their following. But Paul didn’t want that. He wanted all of them to be of one accord in Christ, regardless of who preached to them.

Today, these differences are still lingering around. This time, it is not about Paul, Apollos, and Cephas (Peter) but preachers with a mass following on social media. It is pretty sad to say that instead of some preachers resolving doctrinal differences internally and privately, they go as far as posting videos refuting other people’s doctrines online. That has sparked constant controversies among believers online, and it’s even sad for new converts who don’t know much about the truth of God’s Word (since they can potentially get confused and have doctrinal challenges if it’s not addressed).

Dear preacher, you may not agree with everything your colleague in ministry preaches. But aim for unity with him, not uniformity. All may not wear the same colours, but Christ must be exalted above all our differences.

You are a blessing.