Article - Unity in Diversity with Denominations
“Unity in diversity” is a common view and practice among churches/denominations involving the setting aside of doctrinal differences for the “greater” good of “unity” among “believers.” Does Jesus condone such a view and practice? According to Jesus’ prayer for unity in John 17:20-23, one becomes a believer in Jesus through the apostles’ “word,” called the “apostles’ doctrine” in Acts 2:42. All believers have “obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine” delivered to them by doing away with the body of sin through burial with Christ in baptism (Romans 6:3-7, 17-18). Hence, “doctrine” is essential to becoming a believer. Many who participate in these “unity” events are not even believers according to GOD’S doctrine. Therefore, “Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness…Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15). Instead of fellowshipping with churches/denominations who teach a different Jesus and a different gospel, New Testament Christians are commanded to “note those who cause divisions [denominations] and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you have learned, and avoid them. For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple” (2 Corinthians 11:3-4; Romans 16:17-18). What appears to be the “greater” good and “unity” to man is described as “deception” by God. In fact, if a Christian participates in or even condones such a view or practice, they risk forfeiting their fellowship with Christ and sharing in what the loving apostle John calls an “evil deed” (Romans 1:32; 2 John 1:9-11).
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