“Has it ever occurred to you that one hundred pianos all tuned to the same fork are automatically tuned to each other? They are of one accord by being tuned, not to each other, but to another standard to which each one must individually bow. So when one hundred worshipers meet together, each one looking to Christ, they are in heart nearer to each other than they could possibly be, were they to become ‘unity’ conscious and turn their eyes away from God to strive for closer fellowship.” – A.W. Tozer
Unity in the body of Christ is essential if we are to carry out the Great Commission. We are exhorted in Scripture to be of the same mind.
In the Psalms, David speaks of how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together as one. In the New Testament, Jesus promises our prayers to be answered if we pray in agreement.
Unity is not a meeting on mutual ground to secure friendly relationships. The sign of spiritual maturity is that we have learned to walk in perfect harmony with Christ. As we do, others who are walking in perfect harmony will gravitate toward us.
The prophet Amos posed a rhetorical question, “How can two walk together except they be agreed”? (Amos 3:3) It is a question worthy of consideration. If we expect Christ to dwell in our midst, then there must be an atmosphere of peace among the brethren, not chaos and division?
Jesus prayed that we may all be one, even as He and His Father are one. I cannot imagine Jesus ever praying a prayer that His Father refused to answer. It seems to me the body of Christ is destined for a royal tune-up. Jesus will present His Bride to His Father as a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle.
This said, as the days draw to a close, we can expect a transforming work to be accomplished in His body, the Church. Get ready, the power of the Holy Spirit is about to do great exploits in our midst!
“Be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Try always to be led along together by the Holy Spirit, and so be at peace with one another.” (Ephesians 4:2-3) TLB
Sue West is available to speak at churches and home Bible Study groups. Contact her at preacher_west@yahoo.com.sg
