Division in the religious world is a common reality. Why is it that believers often cannot see things the same way? In many cases, it’s because of differing doctrines and traditions that have been added over time. But if we truly desire unity as Christ prayed for, we need to look closely at what Scripture teaches and consider where our own practices may stray from His Word. The Bible calls us to unity, not in word alone, but in faith and practice. Paul implored the early Christians in Corinth, “Now I exhort you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Corinthians 1:10, NASB). Unity isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a command from God.
The Scriptures give us a clear rule of faith that God expects us to follow. Deuteronomy 29:29 reminds us, “The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our sons forever, that we may observe all the words of this law” (NASB). God has not left us to our own devices—He has given us His Word so that we can know His will and live in harmony. Yet, despite having this guide, believers often find themselves at odds over practices and doctrines. Why?
Let’s examine some of the areas where divisions commonly arise:
1. The Act and Mode of Baptism
Some groups practice baptism by sprinkling, others by pouring, and others by immersion. Yet, the New Testament consistently portrays baptism as an immersion in water. Romans 6:4 says, “Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life” (NASB). Burial implies full immersion. Why add or alter this command with other practices? Could it be that we are choosing tradition over clear biblical instruction?
2. The Proper Subjects of Baptism
Many denominations baptize infants, while others hold that only penitent believers are to be baptized. Yet, in every New Testament example, baptism follows belief and repentance. Acts 2:38 states, “Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit’” (NASB). An infant cannot repent or believe. By following what is written, we avoid division over practices not found in Scripture.
3. Names by Which God’s People Should Be Called
The Bible uses simple names for God’s people—“Christians” (Acts 11:26), “saints” (Romans 1:7), “disciples” (Acts 20:7). However, many have taken on denominational titles such as Baptist, Methodist, or Lutheran. Paul warned against this in 1 Corinthians 1:12-13, saying, “Now I mean this, that each one of you is saying, ‘I am of Paul,’ and ‘I of Apollos,’ and ‘I of Cephas,’ and ‘I of Christ.’ Has Christ been divided?” (NASB). By adopting names not found in Scripture, are we not sowing seeds of division?
4. Use of Instruments in Worship
The New Testament consistently describes vocal music in worship. Ephesians 5:19 says, “speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord” (NASB). Colossians 3:16 similarly instructs, “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God” (NASB). There is no mention of instruments in New Testament worship. So why add what is not commanded?
Each of these examples highlights a choice: Will we follow God’s instructions, or will we hold to traditions not found in Scripture? God’s Word is our rule of faith, and when we depart from it, we invite division. Jesus prayed for unity among His followers: “I do not ask on behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in Me through their word; that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me” (John 17:20-21, NASB). Our unity, therefore, is a witness to the world. When we let go of human traditions and adhere strictly to God’s Word, we fulfill Christ’s prayer for unity.
We must ask ourselves, is it the doctrines of men or the commands of God that shape our faith? Colossians 2:8 warns, “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ” (NASB). If we desire true unity, we must set aside doctrines and practices that God’s Word does not authorize. Only then can we see things alike, in the way God intended.
The Bible is our guide, sufficient and complete, to lead us into all truth. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work” (NASB). If we truly believe that, we must allow it to shape every aspect of our faith and practice.
Let us come together under the authority of Scripture, casting aside the differences that divide us. In doing so, we honor God, unify as believers, and strengthen our witness to the world. May we all be “diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3, NASB).
The Simple Gospel 