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John 17 – An Analogy of Unity
Unity – Unity in the Bible is both a beginning point, and a goal; both the foundation of fellowship and the result (John 17). We will always have differences because we are all in different phases of maturity. Doctrinal differences are never glorified, but don’t need to destroy. The only time differences are called a blessing it is when there are different gifts, not different beliefs. Imagine an orchestra. How boring for everyone to play the same instrument. How chaotic if each one played a different song or refused to follow the conductor. So follow the leader, have the same goal, and follow the same source (John 17). An important difference between the fellowship in an orchestra and that in Christ is an orchestra is filled only with experts. The church of Jesus Christ has both maestros and beginning band students. There is no symphonic church or beginning church. Teach, and don’t ridicule those just learning. Play songs we can play together, while challenging others to improve and grow. Yes, sometimes we have to go off on our own to play certain hard pieces to keep our chops. But if the main goal becomes nothing more than playing harder and harder music, then we begin to glory in our own abilities and close ourselves off from others less artful. So don’t leave behind the beginners or else the orchestra stops making beautiful music TOGETHER.
Beautifully said. Perfect illustration! We miss you all so much and Perry you ahve been blessed we believe more than most to have the ability to teach all in exactly how you expressed above! You have been blessed and keep doing what you’re doing! We love you!