In general, churches need as much harmony as possible. Problems come up and sever unity very quickly. Paul wanted churches to be unified because he told the Ephesian church to work hard to “keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3).
It’s my hope that these simple rules will promote harmony among members of Christ’s body.
- Remember that we’re all subject to failings and infirmities of one kind or another. As the old saying goes, “Nobody is perfect”. If we were expected to live by the same standard we hold others to, we would probably find it harder than we expected.
- Remember that we need to bear with and not magnify each other’s infirmities (Galatians 6:1-2). It’s so easy to make faults in others much larger than they are.
- Remember to pray for one another in our social meetings, and particularly in private (James 5:16). We all need prayer, especially when we are prone to sin.
- Remember to avoid going from house to house for the purpose of hearing news, and interfering with other people’s business.
- Remember to always turn a dear ear to any slanderous report, and to lay no charge brought against any person until it’s been established.
- Remember that if a member is in fault, tell him of it in private before it’s mentioned to others (Matthew 18:15-17).
- Remember to watch against shyness in each other, and put the best construction on any action that has the appearance of opposition or resentment.
- Remember to observe the just rule of Solomon; that is, to stop contention before a quarrel starts (Proverbs 17:14).
- Remember that if a member has sinned, to consider how glorious, how God-like it is to forgive, and how unlike a Christian it is to seek revenge (Ephesians 4:2).
- Remember that it’s always a great trick of the devil to promote distance and animosity among members of churches; therefore we should guard against every opportunity that furthers this end.
- Remember to consider how much more good we can do in the world at large and in the church especially when we’re all united in love, than we do when acting alone and indulging a rebellious spirit.
- Remember to consider the express injunction of Scripture, and the beautiful example of Christ as to these important issues (Ephesians 4:32; 1 Peter 2:21; John 13:5, 35).
Psalm 133:1 says, “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is For brethren to dwell together in unity!” May God bless us to this end and help us to especially work hard at treating each other like Christians should.
Kyle Campbell
