As the dust settles on another contentious election, the rifts it has left in families, friendships, and communities are still fresh. For Christians, the pain is often felt even more deeply, as we find that political differences have sometimes come between us and our brothers and sisters in Christ. This divide can feel especially painful because our shared faith in Jesus ought to unify us, even when we disagree on earthly matters. We must remember that our ultimate allegiance is not to any political party, but to our eternal King, Jesus Christ.
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Our Shared Identity in Christ
The Apostle Paul reminds us in Philippians 3:20, “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” Though we are citizens of earthly nations, our deepest and truest citizenship lies in heaven. It is there that we belong, together, as members of the family of God. Jesus prayed for this unity when He said, “I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one” (John 17:22). Christ’s prayer was for unity among His people, reflecting the eternal bond between Father, Son, and Spirit. This bond cannot be undone by the political tides of the moment.
Christ paid the ultimate price to unite us as one Body, reconciling us with God and with each other through His sacrifice. Our unity is not a fragile thread that can be easily broken; it was forged at the Cross and is unbreakable in Christ. Let us remember this profound truth: if our Lord was willing to lay down His life to unite us, how can we allow temporary political differences to pull us apart?
How Truth and Unity Fit Together
“In Essentials, Unity; In non-essentials, Liberty; In all things, Charity”
This quote emphasizes key principles that many Christians strive to uphold in their faith and interactions. “In Essentials, Unity” suggests that Christians should be united in their core spiritual beliefs and doctrines, such as the divinity of Christ, the importance of the Bible, and other foundational tenets of Christianity. It calls for agreement and togetherness in the fundamental aspects of the faith that define Christian identity.
“In non-essentials, Liberty” acknowledges that there are areas within Christianity where differing opinions and interpretations can exist. These non-essential matters might include political beliefs, cultural expressions of faith, or various theological nuances. The phrase encourages Christians to allow freedom and diversity in these areas, recognizing that they do not compromise the essence of the faith.
“In all things, Charity” underscores the importance of love, kindness, and compassion in all interactions, regardless of differences in belief or practice. It calls Christians to approach both agreement and disagreement with a spirit of love, promoting understanding and peace above conflict and division. This principle is rooted in the Christian mandate to love one another, reflecting the love of Christ in all relationships.
Practical Steps Toward Healing and Unity
1. Remember Our Shared Purpose
Jesus commissioned us to make disciples, to spread the love and truth of God’s kingdom, and to serve as His hands and feet on earth (Matthew 28:19-20). While political beliefs shape some of our earthly interactions, they are secondary to our mission as ambassadors of Christ. By focusing on our shared purpose, we can regain perspective and remember that our political opinions, while important, are not ultimate.
2. Show Grace in Conversations
James 1:19 encourages us to “be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” Instead of responding defensively or seeking to “win” arguments, approach discussions with a listening heart. Try to understand the perspectives of your brothers and sisters, even if you disagree. Showing grace does not mean compromising your values but seeking to honor others as Christ has honored you.
3. Pray for One Another
When we pray for each other, it is difficult to hold on to anger or resentment. James 5:16 tells us to “pray for one another,” not just for those we agree with but for all of our brothers and sisters. Ask God to reveal His love for those with whom you may disagree. Prayer is a powerful force that can soften hardened hearts and bring healing where division has taken root.
4. Focus on Jesus as Our True King
Earthly leaders come and go, but Jesus reigns forever. He is “King of kings and Lord of lords” (Revelation 19:16), and He alone deserves our highest allegiance. When we lift our eyes to Him, we realize that our political differences pale in comparison to His eternal kingdom. Let us allow our shared devotion to Jesus to be the foundation of our unity.
5. Serve Together
Shared service is one of the strongest ways to build unity. When we work alongside each other to serve our communities, we shift our focus from divisive issues to the needs of others. In Romans 12:10, Paul writes, “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” By serving together, we grow in love for one another, experiencing the joy of working as one Body with many parts (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).
Reclaiming Our Peace in Christ
Political turmoil can be unsettling, but in Christ, we have a peace that transcends understanding (Philippians 4:7). As we seek to promote harmony, let us also reclaim this peace by trusting that God is sovereign over all earthly matters. Our unity is not found in uniformity of political views but in the unchanging, eternal truth of the gospel. It is in Christ that we are bonded as one family.
In a world marked by division, our unity as the Body of Christ is a powerful testimony. Let us strive to reflect the love, grace, and humility of our Savior, who gave everything to unite us. May we continue to draw closer to one another in love, and together, may we proclaim the good news of our heavenly King.
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