I once was startled to hear a big name bible teacher announce that he was so aware of the Lord’s will for unity among the brethren that he had decided that he was going to agree with everyone, all the time. He was simply going to avoid breaking the unity which the Lord wanted so desperately to have in his Church.

We all understand the need for unity, if we intend to get anything done at all in life, but my curiosity was piqued by this man’s stated position. He was asked if he would agree with someone who insisted living a lifestyle which would send him to hell, and he averred that he would agree with the man that he go to hell!

Saint Paul speaks of the importance of unity in 1 Corinthians 1.10-11: ‘I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you.’ This is a good thing, and it is the basis of where we are in government by consensus—if we are not of one mind, we do not move forward with anything.

But I wonder if my teacher friend had something important here as well. Paul continues: ‘and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought. My brothers, some from Chloe’s household have informed me that there are quarrels among you.’ It is our Lord’s desire that we be of one mind and thought. He doesn’t want us squabbling over issues which divide us. And if he will agree with one who makes a stupid decision, so will I agree. WE ARE IN UNITY!