1 Corinthians 1:10
Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
If we are to experience unity of the Spirit–being in one accord–it is necessary for us to know what that unity looks like. It doesn’t help us to just shout slogans of unity. Neither will it help anybody for us to just decry our lack of harmony.
From our text, we learn at least three aspects of being in one accord. Firstly, spiritual unity has a VOCAL aspect. That means we are not united if we speak different messages. We are united when our words also agree. This business of “freedom of speech” has ruined too many churches, homes and organisations! Rather than freedom of speech, let us cherish faithful speech. Let us all speak the truth in love (Ep 4:15).
The Bible says, ‘Therefore, putting away lying, “Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbour,” for we are members of one another. Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.’ (Ep 4:25, 29).
Secondly, being in one accord has a COHESIVE aspect. That means people who promote unity are not divisive. They are concerned about bringing fellow believers together rather than pulling them apart. They dislike unhealthy cliques and groups in the church. They look for common ground rather than battle lines. They seek to reconcile rather than alienate people. They are part of the solution, not part of the problem. Beloved, how cohesive are you in the body of Christ?
Thirdly, dwelling together in unity has a MENTAL aspect. That means promoters of spiritual harmony share the same ideas. They think alike. Now, how on earth is it possible for us to think alike when we have different backgrounds, aspirations and influences? One solution is for all of us to adopt God’s thoughts as our own. “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus” (Phi 2:5; see also Phi 1:27, 4:8). Then it’s no longer about pitting our ideas versus one another’s, but all of us thinking according to the revelation of God in Scripture.
In short, do your best to promote unity in Christ rather than division. Avoid saying negative, divisive or destructive things. Shun unnecessary arguments. Be agreeable rather than controversial or argumentative. Don’t play the devil’s advocate. Learn to reconcile people. Reject ungodly, hateful or bitter thoughts about the brethren. Be a unifier rather than a divider. Then the anointing and blessing of God will flow profusely within and among us (Psalm 133).
Pastor Josh