stephen R Harrison

(Read Philippians 4:1)

Amos asked, “How can two walk together unless they agree?” (Amos 3:3).  Agreeing in the Lord is not “agreeing to disagree.”  It is surrendering self-desire and crucifying flesh to obey the truth of Christ’s Word to accomplish His will in the body of Christ. In his letter to the Philippians, Paul addressed moments of disunity by reminding the believers of doctrinal truth (2:1-11) that fuels practical living (2:12-18). We will not walk in the truth if we do not know the truth. If we do not value truth, we will not protect it. While one specific instance of disunity existed in the Philippian church (4:2-3), Paul aimed to help the believers agree in the Lord in every circumstance. 

For believers to agree, they must do as Paul instructed: “Stand firm in the Lord” (4:1). To stand firm means to be steadfast. This means being fulfilled and content with God’s truth – trusting His ways as best. Paul encouraged those he “loves and longs for.” They are “brothers and sisters,” his “joy and crown.” This tone of a dear friend and fellow brother in Christ exhorts the believers toward unity. What joy we gain when we are united in Christ! Disunity, caused by pride, selfishness, bitterness, jealousy, and other sins, can destroy the bonds of brothers and sisters. Instead of being a joy and crown, disunity can cause a church to become a pain and a thorn! Instead of stirring love and longing in the church, disunity can produce indifference and loathing.

I’ve experienced this at times in the body of Christ. Where there has been disunity, not standing firm in the Lord together, it has caused me not to want to engage in fellowship, partner in the gospel, and practically not be around another believer. When believers stand firm together, being with and knowing them is a joy. I’ve tried to be a peacemaker where disunity existed in the church. This must be done in humility and submission to God’s Word and Spirit. When I cannot restore unity because it takes two people (or groups) walking in the Spirit’s truth and fruit, I have prayed from a distance and allowed the Holy Spirit to work. I’ve had to confront a divisive person a couple of times and then either move on, set boundaries for them in the church or ask them not to return to church as they harm unity and mission (Matthew 18:15-19; Titus 3:10-11). If we do not stand firm in the Lord, it will destroy unity, stop gospel effectiveness, and ultimately dissolve that local fellowship of believers! Believers must unite in the Lord out of sincere love for God, the church, and Christian witness.

Questions for the Head (Think)

• Are you standing in the Lord in every way possible with other believers?

Reflection for the Heart (Worship)

• If there is disunity between you and another believer, ask the Holy Spirit to give you wisdom, humility, and the first steps of reconciliation with them. 

Action for the Hands (Do)

• Where there is disunity in Christian relationships, seek to begin reconciliation this week. Where unity exists, ask the Lord how to strengthen your stand with other believers.