The Associated Press has been circulating a story (even the Washington Post carried it) about unity attempts by churches of Christ and independent / instrumental congregations. Included are a merger by the Northwest Church in Seattle and a cooperative planting of a Spanish speaking church in Lexington, Ky. (Evans)

John 17:23 tells us that the unity is a sign to the lost to, "let the world know that you sent me". The arguments and backbiting which may seem like an internal "family" matter are being watched by the outside. John 13:35 says our trademark must be love for one another. This is how "outsiders" (the lost) will identify us.

This is not a call to abandon solid theology or salvation doctrine, but to set aside matters of opinion which are sending seekers away. If our doctrine is biblically sound and our unity is in shambles we will not save ourselves or our hearers (1 Timothy 4:16). We certainly look at the doctrine part of 1 Timothy 4:16 with a fine toothcomb, but fail to examine the most important elements of our discipleship; Love God, love people (Luke 10:27).

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Works Cited

Evans, Murray. "Factions may make music together." Chron.com 07 2006. 19 Apr 2006   
     <http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/life/religion/3779685.html>