Paul did not accept any excuse for division but severely condemned it. The dangers that result from a break within the fellowship of a congregation are multiple and costly.
Unity in Christ | Sermon by T. T. Crabtree
Text: “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Cor. 1:10).
Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:10–17
Introduction
A young student pastor was involved in some phase of church business when two distinct factions within the little church began making cutting remarks toward each other.
The following Sunday the young pastor used as his text, “Let there be no divisions among you.” This is an admonition that is fitting for many congregations all over the world. The text emphasizes both the positive and negative.
I. The negative, or unpleasant, is the first consideration.
A. The first word in the sentence, “Now,” indicates a transition from thanksgiving to reproof.
In the earlier part of this chapter in 1 Corinthians, Paul had talked about the grace all Christians experience. He also talked about the riches each Christian has in Christ Jesus.
He talked still further about God’s dependability. He then turned to the matter of rebuke and, on through 1 Corinthians 3:23, discussed this theme.
B. Paul gives severe condemnation for having division.
The origin of division in the church at Corinth was intellectual conceit and disagreement over leadership.
Paul did not accept any excuse for division but severely condemned it. The dangers that result from a break within the fellowship of a congregation are multiple and costly.
II. The application of the idea of divisions is the second consideration.
A. The origin of modern-day contention is basically the same as in the day of Paul’s writings. Most contentions are over personalities. They are also caused by intellectual conceit or by a lack of consecration and humility.
B. The evils connected with divisions in modern-day churches are legion. Division makes a church weak. The energy that should be expended for the cause of Christ is used for internal fighting.
Division makes for such a scandal that God is dishonored, the world stands in contempt, and Satan is the victor. Non-Christians see the contention and are turned off.
III. The opposite of division is unity.
A. Paul made the appeal that the people “be perfectly joined together.” This is an appeal for oneness in disposition and voice.
Paul was not making an appeal to ecclesiastical union, conformity in worship, or even theological unity, but to oneness in love, fellowship, attitude, and purpose.
B. The appeal is made “by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” This is a title referring to both the person and the office of the Savior. His person is divinely and perfectly blended. His office is Redeemer. He is the sole head of the church.
C. The appeal is made that the unity be “in the same mind and in the same judgment.” The appeal is made in meekness—“I beseech you,” and in love—“brethren.” Unity, then, is realized when members of a congregation turn their thoughts to Christ rather than to individual feelings.
Conclusion
One of the greatest of all needs today is for individuals within the church to adhere to this admonition—namely, not to be divided but to be one in Christ in the church.