FROM THE DAWGHOUSE…
Unity Where It Matters Most
We live in a world that seems divided over everything. Politics. Sports. Social issues. Even the smallest disagreements can become reasons to separate from one another.
Sadly, the church is not immune.
Christians have long held different convictions on matters such as baptism, church government, worship styles, spiritual gifts, and the timing of Christ’s return. These conversations are important because God’s Word matters. But they also raise an important question:
How can Christians disagree and still remain united?
As Zach shared with us this week, Paul answers that question in Ephesians 4:1-10. Writing from prison, he urges believers to “live a life worthy of the calling you have received” (Ephesians 4:1). What follows isn’t a call to win arguments but to pursue humility, gentleness, patience, and love.
Then comes the foundation of Christian unity: “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3)
Notice that Paul doesn’t tell us to create unity. Jesus has already accomplished that through His death and resurrection. Our responsibility is to preserve the unity He has given His people. Paul continues by reminding us that there is “one body and one Spirit… one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all” (Ephesians 4:4-6). Our unity isn’t built on identical personalities, traditions, or preferences. It is built on the gospel.
That doesn’t mean every belief carries the same weight.
Throughout church history, faithful Christians have distinguished between essential doctrines and secondary doctrines. Essential doctrines define the Christian faith itself. Secondary doctrines are important, but sincere believers who affirm the gospel have reached different conclusions about them.
Confusion begins when we reverse those categories. We elevate personal preferences and secondary issues to the level of gospel essentials, while sometimes treating foundational truths as if they are open for debate.
Neither honors Christ.
Biblical unity isn’t achieved by ignoring truth, nor is it preserved by demanding agreement on every issue. True unity is found when believers stand shoulder to shoulder on the unchanging truths of Scripture while extending grace and humility where faithful Christians may disagree.
Jesus prayed that His followers “may be one… so that the world may believe that you have sent me” (John 17:21).
Our unity is part of our witness. A divided church weakens its testimony, but a united church demonstrates the reconciling power of the gospel. As believers, we should be known for both conviction and charity – firm where Scripture is firm and gracious where Scripture allows room for disagreement.
In the coming weeks, we’ll explore what those categories look like. Which doctrines are essential to the Christian faith? Which issues allow for faithful disagreement? And how do we pursue unity without compromising truth?
The answers matter. Not just for the health of the church, but for the glory of Christ.
Joe Bouch
