Like-Minded

Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus, Romans 15:5 NKJV

Have you ever considered why there are so many Christian denominations? Even within some denominators, it is further subdivided into sects. Whether Roman Catholic, Catholic, or Protestant, we all believe that Jesus Christ is God's Son, the Messiah spoke of in the Old Testament, and our Savior. He came, taught, was crucified, and rose again after three days. So, if we all believe these things, why so many churches? The answer may lie in this exhortation from Paul to be like-minded; other translations use harmony. There is the potential for splintering whenever we allow anything to disrupt our unity.

The reasons for this fracturing are frequently around the interpretation of scripture compounded by the human desire for control. When we put our metaphorical spiritual stake in the ground and in our human stubbornness, we are unwilling to yield to other ideas. I'm not saying we should be mindless drones. God gave us minds and the ability to reason and expects us to use them. He desires us to study his word and have a lively discussion on its meaning; that's solid spiritual discipline. However, when our focus strays from who we are–God's children–and his purpose for us–to serve–allowing our human ego to get in the way, we fail in being like-minded.

When we set aside doctrinal differences and focus on the teachings of the early church, those things we agree on, we can do so much more together in service as the one body of Christ.

There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. Ephesians 4:4‭-‬6 NKJV

Father of us all, thank you for the salvation in Christ Jesus and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Help us become like-minded with all our brothers and sisters in faith this day. So may we unite to bring about your kingdom here on earth. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim