One of the problems we have in striving for unity (Eph 4:1-4) is that we often equate unity with uniformity. It’s not. Just as every family member is different (with physical resemblances no guarantee of membership!), every church member is uniquely different. Paul makes this clear in 1 Cor 12:15-17 and as we abandon inferiority or superiorit complexes in favour of unconditional acceptance (Rom 15:7), we learn that unity is good, pleasant and delightful, but it doesn’t mean we have to be alike or have to agree all the time!
Love is the glue God gives to hold families together; it’s the glue which makes a united whole from separate, disparate parts. Prov 10:12 reminds us that ‘love covers all wrongs’ (see also 1 Pet 4:8) This love comes from God, not ourselves (Rom 5:5), and so we find we can pull together and be united, even if and when we disagree. We learn to put others first (Phil 2:3-4) and to be kind and compassionate to one another, just as in Christ, God forgave us. (Eph 4:32)
