Unity and Diversity in the Church

Have you heard the phrase unity in diversity? It suggests we must do our best to be unified even if there are significant differences in our beliefs. But how should we consider this Biblically?

Unity

Take some time to read Ephesians 4:1-6.

It’s quite clear that unity is based on doctrine (e.g. one gospel, one faith, one God). But to be united in our doctrine and truths of Scripture also determines our unity in our behaviour towards each other – and all of this is constantly wrapped up in the bond of peace through the Holy Spirit.

Without genuine unity there can be no peace and the work of evangelism and discipleship suffers. For example, I have been in churches that allowed unbelievers to serve in its midst. I have seen first hand the destruction that allowing false teaching and unbiblical practices in the church has brought. Yet Pastors, leaders and even congregational members allow this, or turn a blind eye, simply to show the world that we have unity in our midst. Yet, it is a false and dangerous unity ready to undermine Jesus and destroy the church. After all what has darkness to do with light (2 Cor. 6:14)?

What about non-essential matters?

Churches and denominations do have differing doctrinal views on matters that don’t necessarily impact salvation. For example, do you speak in tongues, but your church does not actively engage in such a practice? Here, unity is preserved if you accept and respect the leaderships decision. But if you cannot, then unity would be preserved if you left this church as staying will cause tension. If you are on the fence about non-essential issues then ask yourself whether the churches teaching is correct regarding salvation (soteriology), Jesus (christology) and sin (harmatiology).

Diversity

The same Spirit who enables unity within the church, brings diversity by giving different spiritual gifts to each believer for the benefit of the church (1 Cor 12:4-31). Diversity has nothing to do with allowing anyone to serve in the church simply to demonstrate how inclusive and tolerant we are. For example, how often have you heard people incorrectly say something like ….if only we had more families/youth/business leaders our church would grow. The church is not a workplace that is required to meet gender or ethnic diversity quotas. We must be very careful not to reject or accept people based on our own agendas or unbiblical thinking.  

God has equipped ALL believers with gifts and abilities (1 Cor 12:12-31) and He will place us where He knows there is a need. He may also place us where He knows we can be challenged to think Biblically instead of focusing on self. Don’t be looking for the extra pair of hands, when God has brought you a much needed pair of feet! (See 1 Cor 12:17). But likewise. don’t think you are the required pair of hands, when you might instead be the necessary big toe! God is wise, the church is His and He will grow it according to His purposes for His glory.

So remember, Unity and Diversity do work together. But not via our human and subjective opinions. But true Unity and Diversity is achieved through God and the power of the Holy Spirit at work through each believer within the body of Christ.