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“Perfectly United in Mind and Thought”

Thoughts for Today:

The Greek word for "divisions" is "schisma". In the context of our passage today, it means there should be no open breaks or fracturing of the church. How does this happen? It's when we fight, gossip, criticize, or hold feelings of bitterness and contempt. Paul instructs we are to "agree with one another" and "be perfectly united in mind and thought." He means believers shouldn't be in such direct opposition to one another that unity is broken and discord and quarreling are the result.

Recently, my daughter Amanda asked permission to watch a particular television show. I said, "No." She asked, "But why? It's age appropriate and on the Disney Channel." (We have used the term 'age appropriate' so often it has now become a part of her vocabulary.) I said, "I don't care, it's not a good show. The answer is no." Amanda said, "I don't like it when you and Mom gang up on me. You don't always have to agree." I guess she must have asked her Mom first, then me, hoping we would disagree.

That's exactly what Paul's talking about in our passage today, a wonderful meeting of the minds. In marriage and parenting we know it's hard to consistently agree on every topic. So how does unity occur in the church when it's made up of people with such diverse backgrounds? Paul's opening salutation is the key: "I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." In other words, every one of our decisions, whether in marriage, parenting or in the church body, is to be viewed through the mind of Christ. He alone gives us His unique and unifying perspective. It's how we "agree with one another," avoid "divisions", and become "perfectly united in mind and thought."

Questions to Ponder:

Are you in conflict with your brothers and sisters in Christ? How can harmony become re-established? Have you looked at your differences as brothers and sisters in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ? Who is in control of the discussion? Man, woman, or the Lord?

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About the author

Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.