Dale Ridge church of Christ

            Few would probably argue against the fact that the country in which we live is divided in regard to political and moral stances. One can scarcely turn on the news without seeing this to be the present state of our nation. However, along these lines, let us more importantly ask the question: how does our Lord’s kingdom, the church, stand regarding its stance on the fulfillment of God’s will? Are we in the church united in our desire to serve God and obey Him? Let us consider the following scriptures as to Jesus’ will for His followers as well as his observation on what happens when a kingdom is divided.

            In John 17:20-23, we read of how Jesus is praying not only for his disciples that he presently had but also for those who would believe on Jesus through the word of those disciples. His prayer stresses His desire for His followers to be one as He and the Father are one. The reason for this is in order that the world might know that God the Father sent Jesus. We in the Lord’s kingdom need to be united on our desire to carry out God’s will as made manifest through His word, the Bible. If we are divided regarding that matter, how do we expect those who are in the world to believe that we are earthly representatives of Jesus?

            In regard to the results of a divided kingdom, let us now turn our attention to Luke 11:17. In this passage, Jesus, upon being accused of being Beelzebub, the chief of the devils, states that “every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and a house divided against a house falleth.” In Mark 3:25, he explains how if a house is divided against itself, it cannot stand.” Therefore, a kingdom or a house that is divided will not last. Rather, it will fall into utter ruin.

            As members of the Lord’s body and as those who hold forth the word of life, let us strive to be united in our willingness to carry out God’s will and be obedient to His word. May we all seek to be fellow residents in Heaven together one day.

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Filed under: Michael Carter on May 1st, 2009