Jesus said in John 13:34, 35, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.”
As a result of studying this verse, I have come to take the unity of the brethren very seriously. This command was given by Christ Himself, and I find it tragic that this message is all but passed over in the church. The church couldn’t be in a sadder state of affairs: the one trait by which Christians are to be known is the trait hardest to find among its members for their brethren.
“You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere men?” 1 Corinthians 3:3
This is not to say that we should disregard good doctrine, because you can show unity and love while still holding fast to the teaching of the Word.
“What you heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus.” 2 Timothy 1:13
If we want to be true followers of Christ and wish to be a part of His blameless and spotless church, then we it is imperative that we follow this dictate that He has given to us. Let us heed Christ’s words and not be divided by minor disputes, minor points of doctrine, or denominational affiliation, but let us be unified in our love for Christ!
“Let brotherly love continue.” Hebrews 13:1
