Is Religious Unity Possible Today?
Throughout time people have asked the question of whether or not religious unity is possible. Most likely, this question is asked because so many different religions exist in our world and so many different “Christian” denominations exist. Over 2,000 different denominations exist in the United States alone. This would indeed suggest that religious unity was not a possibility in our time.
However, if we go to God’s Word, which is to be our final authority on all moral and religious matters (2 Tim 3:16-17), we will find the answer to our question.
RELIGIOUS DIVISION CONDEMNED
Paul, by inspiration, pleaded with the Christians meeting in Corinth to “all speak the same thing,” and he instructed that “there be NO division among you, but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Cor 1:10). From this inspired direction it is clear that God condemns religious division and says that unity is indeed a real possibility. So then, if division is condemned and unity is required, how can man today please God and come together in harmony of mind and teaching?
- Religious unity is achievable if we, as God’s creation, are willing to humble ourselves and respect the commands of Christ. Remember that Christ prayed that all might be one, as He and the Father are one, in unity (John 17:20-21). Would Christ have prayed for something that was not possible? And how is it that the Father and Son are one? Are they at odds with one another on the plan of salvation? Worship? Church Organization? The truth is simple and clear to the honest and humble heart.
- Religious unity is possible if we are willing to put aside our preconceived ideas that we have grown up believing, practicing or being taught pertaining to religious matters. We must accept God and His word as our final authority and for complete guidance. The psalmist wrote, “Thy word is a lamp unto feet and a light unto my path” (Ps 119:105). So, God’s Word is to be our only guide, which truly will provide adequate light for all as we walk the pathway of life. Remember that Jeremiah warned that man’s wisdom was not a safe guide (Jer 10:23).
- Religious unity is possible if we are willing to give up human creeds and the teachings of uninspired men in favor for doing things in Bible ways. Remember Jesus’ admonition that doctrines and commandments of men lead us into vain, meaningless worship (Matt 7:21).
- Religious unity is possible if we simply obey God. Jesus said, “Not everyone that saith unto me Lord, Lord shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven” (Matt 7:21).
Obedience to God’s word is the key to heaven (Heb 5:8-9) and the key to religious unity today. There is no other way. Religious unity is possible today when men will yield to God’s unchanging word. Be faithful!