DAY 24: TRUTH IS THE FOUNDATION OF CHRISTIAN UNITY

DAY 24: TRUTH IS THE FOUNDATION OF CHRISTIAN UNITY

SCRIPTURE:

For we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth. 2 Corinthians 13:8

When I saw that they were not acting in line with the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas in front of them all, “You are a Jew, yet you live like a Gentile and not like a Jew. How is it, then, that you force Gentiles to follow Jewish customs? Galatians 2:14

Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. 1 John 2:4

OBSERVATION:

Although unity is so paramount to the church of God, it is absolutely essential that it must not be at the expense of the truth. Speaking the truth can really hurt, especially when it comes to correcting fellow brothers and sisters in the church. However, we cannot corrupt or dilute our creed for the sake of not offending someone. 

In the church today, there is a difficult situation, as false teachings have come in and created many controversies, but to give in to them in the name of unity only pollutes the gospel and we actually have a duty to speak up as Paul did to Peter when he did not act in line with the truth of the gospel.

APPLICATION:

First of all, we must ensure that we ourselves are founded on the truth, and know the basics of our faith – of repentance, faith, baptisms, the laying of hands, resurrection and final judgment as listed down in Hebrews. Then, we need to delve into the Word so that we can be firm and secure in the Scripture, not easily tossing about as the wind and waves  turns. Where required, we need to stand up and speak out against teaching that is contrary to Scripture.

PRAYER:

Dear Father, even as we pray for unity and seek to be one before You as one church, we pray for boldness at the same time to remain true to the truth. Quicken us and strengthen Your Word within us we pray, that we may be grounded and strong in Your Word, able to discern right and wrong. Raise up for us godly teachers of the Word who are sound and accurate, who preach without fear or favor, and declare Your truth courageously against the heresies that invade the church, even from within. We praise You and thank You, Lord. In Jesus name, Amen.