For the past
few weeks, the concepts of Unity & Uniformity have been on my heart. After
a few times of being quiet, I still could not understand why these words were
stirring in me.
Now, I think
I know why.
The word ‘Unity’
is mentioned in the Bible 3 times, and two of those times the same Greek word
is used (in Eph 4:3 and 4:13; Henotes, from root word Heis). Like the Hebrew word (In Ps 133:1; Yachad),
both words denote ‘one-ness,’ ‘joining,’ or ‘alike-ness.’ But, as far as I can
understand, none of these words have anything to do with physical looks,
talents, abilities, or other skills and gifts. All these words connote a sense
of one-ness of spirit and of mind (beliefs). (1 Cor 12: 4-11)
What does
this have to do with anything? I think we in the Church get these concepts
confused, too. According to Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance, ‘Uniformity’ is
not even mentioned in the Bible, yet, we often either believe or unwittingly
and unintentionally ‘impose’ the standard of ‘Uniformity’ for ‘Unity.’
Nothing
could be further from the truth. God is a God of diverse abilities with an
inexhaustible depth of creativity. This same God has given each of us skills,
talents, and abilities in all shapes, sizes, and styles (Rom 12:6). None of us
has to work to ‘fit in,’ but, we are instantly a part of the Church at the
moment of salvation.
The tapestry
of the Church is colorful, vibrant, and bright. Each of us is important to the
whole and the only one-ness of spirit and mind we must press to obtain is that
of Christ (Phil 2: 1-7).
