Can Christians Disagree Without Division?
3 WAYS REVELATION CAN HELP
BSF Staff
From the Editorial Team
Karen McNary served in BSF Leadership for over 18 years spanning a time of cultural and political division in the United States.
“I remember thinking that it was strange to be told the same thing by friends in different political parties. They just didn’t understand how someone who disagreed with their politics could possibly be a Christian.”
But division among Christians is not new, and is not a surprise to God.
“Conflict among God’s people is not isolated to one culture or even one historical era,” says Karen. “Conflict is inevitable. Opinions will differ. But when we are rooted in the gospel, we are united in purpose.”
As Karen surveyed her class, she saw women from different socio-economic backgrounds, ethnicities, political persuasions, and church denominations pursuing Christ with passion and commitment.
Karen’s BSF class found unity through God’s Word.
After shepherding such a diverse class of believers, Karen developed a heart for helping Christians discover the gift of unity, even in disagreement.
When we are united in the gospel, we are united in purpose.
Today, Karen serves as BSF’s Director of Global Engagement.
“I have found that people don’t always realize that we can have the same faith and have very different experiences,” she says.
In today’s culture, we may wonder if Christians can disagree and still remain united. For generations, across all countries and cultures, Christians have asked the same question. Is it truly possible to approach complex issues without losing our love for one another?
Karen believes the answer is yes. She shares three ways Revelation can help.
Don’t confuse differences with division
In Revelation 7:9, we read inspiring verses about a great multitude gathered in worship before Jesus:
“After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.”
In John’s vision, “every nation, tribe, people and language” praised the living God together.
This beautiful picture gives us hope for eternity, but Christ-centered unity can feel distant today. When we struggle, Karen encourages us not to let our God-given differences evolve into manmade division.
When we ask God to help us guard against division, we can trust that He will work through our differences in His time and in His ways.
“Nations, tribes, and tongues—those are not divisions to me. Those are just characteristics, like someone being tall or short. We have made them into divisions, but God is the one who created those distinctions. It may be visible that people are different, but Revelation tells us we are not divided in the eyes of Christ. I truly believe God works uniquely within the Church through every time and culture. When division threatens God’s people today and leads to disagreement, we can pray for one another. Through individual prayer for others, even those we disagree with, God softens our hearts and gives us renewed patience.”
When we ask God to help us guard against division, we can trust that He will work through our differences in His time and in His ways.
Focus on what draws us together
Through Revelation 7:10, Karen challenges us to focus on the One who draws us together:
“And they cried out in a loud voice: ‘Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.’”
“It’s intentional that the Bible talks about the diversity of the people while they stand before Jesus claiming Him as the one true God. There is a unity in what they are claiming. They are in agreement that all blessing, glory, wisdom, thanksgiving, and honor belong to Him. They are 100 percent focused on Jesus.”
In today’s world, we are often encouraged to assume the worst about those who disagree with us.
For Karen, this picture is a reminder that the One who unites His people is stronger than anything that drives us apart. When we seek God through His Word, He gives us a complete picture of His character. Through His Word we find wisdom, courage, and hope.
“This picture of God’s people worshipping in unison is a reminder to me to stay in a posture of humility,” she says. “In today’s world, we are often encouraged to assume the worst about those who disagree with us. But there is room for differences of opinion when Christ is our focus. We don’t have to carry the burden of argument or debate. Instead, when we keep our eyes on Him and not others, we can pray, discuss, and enjoy being together.”
When we look to Christ, we discover that Jesus gives us the wisdom and strength to navigate our differences without division.
Put our faith in God’s promises, not people
In Revelation 7:9-10, God reveals that He is worthy of our worship. The chapter closes with a beautiful picture of what we will experience in eternity under Christ’s authority:
“For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; ‘he will lead them to springs of living water,’ ‘And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes’” (Revelation 7:17).
What God has revealed for the future is enough to give us hope today.
In today’s culture, we are tempted to place our faith in people and human solutions. But leaders come and go, and even Christians can disappoint us. Revelation 7:17 reminds us that the Lamb who chose to die for His people is the same Lamb who rules for eternity. Jesus, who stands worthy of our worship, bends low to wipe away our tears.
“That is a promise. Even though I don’t know what’s going to happen I can trust that Christ is enough,” Karen says. “Revelation reminds me that when I struggle through disappointment on earth, I can trust God’s promises for the future. With this in mind, we can meet our brothers and sisters in Christ with grace as we trust the Lord to reveal truth in His time.”
“What God has revealed for the future is enough to give us hope today.”
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I appreciate the focus on unity in Karen’s article, especially the reminder that Revelation 7:9 shows all nations, tribes, and tongues worshipping together before the throne of God. However, I believe it’s important to clarify what biblical unity actually is.
The Bible does not define people by race, culture, or human categories—it identifies them as either in Christ or outside of Him. The distinctions in Revelation 7:9 are not divisions; they are simply descriptions of how the gospel has reached every people group. What unites us is not our shared appreciation of diversity but our shared faith in Christ.
Scripture teaches that Christ has already broken down every dividing wall (Ephesians 2:14-16), making us one in Him. We don’t achieve unity by striving to embrace cultural differences—we live out the unity Christ has already established. As citizens of heaven and ambassadors of Christ, our focus should be on binding and loosing according to God’s Word (Matthew 16:19), rather than navigating cultural differences as if they define our faith.
While our experiences may differ, our foundation remains the same—Jesus Christ and His Word. If we emphasize that, then we will live as the unified people God has called us to be, both now and in eternity.”
Thank you for sharing! I love how you said ‘The distinctions in Revelation 7:9 are not divisions; they are simply descriptions of how the gospel has reached every people group.’ Such a great reminder!
Thank you for sharing your heart on this matter. I enjoyed what you had to say about having differences and believes.
God bless you as you continue to work for Him.
It is so refreshing to read this article and to have it explained so eloquently. If we just slow down enough to realize the things that you say in your article, our nation would be in such a better place.
Can I also offer a suggestion to whomever reads this comment- ” A smile and hello- goes a long way in BSF. Whether you belong to the majority culture or one that is less represented in your BSF group- a small beginning to unity may begin with ” Hello”.
Thank you Karen, for this article and insights, full of grace and wisdom.
I love it when you said “..we can have the same faith but have different experiences..” and it is important to respect people’s individual experiences as something that informs their perspective.
Jesus had disciples whose backgrounds ranged from fishermen to a tax collector and a zealot, and that is just the men. The women also were a diverse bunch, and He loved them all.
Unity, not uniformity is what I am getting from this article. Thank you very much, and God bless your ministry with BSF.
I love BSF.
What profound words of wisdom that you have spoken to us today. They are truly inspiring and we need to take it to heart. Thank you for sharing. God bless your work with BSF.
Thanks for enlightening me on division and difference.
Thank you for this wonderful review. It has made this weeks profound message very clear. We are not divided in the eyes of Christ because we are all His children. Total focus on Jesus can bridge many differences especially in a country that has many different cultures and languages. We must pray and keep our focus on Jesus because He unites us and we are able to rise above politics and tribal barriers. May we always approach His throne in humility !
Great words of wisdom. God is who unites us. He is still in control. If He who is the creator of all things allow us to chose who are we to fight with people for their choice. We can agree to disagree and move forward in love. God is love and our love for one another should always be first place. Let’s pray for our country. This lesson and our study of Revelation is so timely. Another example of God’s timing in our lives to help us through difficult times. The word of God is food for our soul and healing for whatever your hurt or disappointment. God is trustworthy and faithful. People come and go God and His word will never change or return void. Thank you Jesus!!!
I love that Carolyn. We can agree to disagree trusting that the Lord will either correct or affirm our beliefs in His time.
Thanks
This is such a timely message. Thanks for the hope that is revealed in Revelation.
I believe Gospel of grace revealed to Apostle Paul and his 13 Epistles are applicable to today’s Body of Christ from all tribe and Nations. Because it was revealed to Paul by the ascended Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. I believe Bible Study Fellowship can add all called out people to the Body of Christ in this Grace Age and we are waiting for our transformation from this earthly body to a heavenly one. That is what Paul said Christ in you the Hope of Glory. May God help each one as long as Bible Study Fellowship is on this earth. May Gods Grace and Peace be with each one who read this.
I agree. God gives us each different perspectives and experiences. I like the snowflake analogy. We all will have uniquely different facet in our lives to reflect and display Gods beautiful light. Collectively we shine Gods light even brighter.
Thank you, Karen, for encouraging us to focus on Christ when we engage with others in debate particularly about political matters. We can definitely differ in our opinions with others without division when we focus on Christ and see others through a spiritual lens. God allows and appoints leaders to achieve His plan. He is sovereign and in control of all nations, therefore, we must learn to put our trust totally in Him.
Karen, God is speaking through you with His word. My church is doing a series on conflict resolution and your article accompanies it beautifully and fittingly. His word doesn’t contradict but confirms word to word chapter to chapter prophecy to fulfillment. Thank you.
I would like to share this article with another Christian who is not a BSF member. Is this allowed, if so, how do I share it?
Of course! There are some sharing buttons on the top left side or you can copy and paste the Url to email or text!
The Lord God, knowing our 💕 tend to evil, watched as the population joined in building a tower; one that they intended to reach to the highest heaven.
He took action.
God’s kingdom, bought with His dear Son’s horrific suffering and death, lit a spiritual fire in the Holy Spirit that can not be quenched. He’s got 🔥 this.
We’re His vessels.
Amen Gloria.
Thank you Karen for this article on Disagree without Division. Through life in Christian circles & non-Christian circles it is inevitable to completely agree, within each of us. We were all created different and the focus should be to be humble (not easy on our own but God) and trust God for truth to be revealed in time, thank you for that reminder. Even with our own families we can apply this principle. Also the reminder not to place faith in people or human solutions, Christ alone is enough, He is the adhesion to unity within the body of Christ!!
I will confess that I don’t always read the articles written by the staff. But I have some personal issues going on and woke up feeling I need to hear a word from God.
I decided to read the article, “Can Christians Disagree Without Division” by Karen McNary. It was a real blessing to me . It expressed my feelings about a lot of things. Mainly that God is in control of people and our world.
I wrote down several thoughts in the article to use to help others struggling with doubt to see the hand and control of God our Savior.
Thanks for letting God use you to write that article.
Thank you Karen for “these 3 ways Revelation can help us”
We have one Identity in Christ; Our heavenly Father who loves us in Jesus (though we may be influenced because of our human characters)can always “harmonize” our life with one another; Blessings to all Believers!
Can Christians Disagree without Division? Yes, but let’s see what God has to say about what we are in disagreement about.
From ancient Greek, politics means “affairs of the cities”. It is in regards to the laws of the land. Psalms 1:2 “But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his laws, he meditates day and night.
When human laws conflict with God’s laws, Christians should obey God’s laws not mans. Acts 5:29
We are called to rebuke, correct and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction.
If you disagree with God’s word-then that’s between you and him! I’m praying for you!
Lolita, thank you for sharing! Absolutely, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Your heart to pray for others and respond with “great patience and careful instruction” is so encouraging. Thank you for pointing us to Scripture. Karen’s article was intended to encourage us to maintain our focus on Christ when disagreements do arise.
I would also add that God reveals truths of scripture to people . We don’t come to this understanding on our own but with the Spirit. In the meantime, we can continue to learn about Him and shares these truths trusting that the same Spirit who revealed them to us, will do the same to others.
Amen!
I think we need to be careful with sounding as if all diversity can be united. I recognize that people are diverse and cultures and language -even English – can be extremely diverse and united. If we know Christ He reveals the heart of what might be confusing and unity can be known. However, if we brush the spiritual battle that we find ourselves in with psychological forms of kindness we avoid verses like 2 Tim 3:16ish that remind us that love involves rebuke and discipline. I disagree where it is stated that we are in a time where we place our faith in people. I think this is distinctly one half of the church. And perhaps that is who this blog piece is addressed to. The comfortable and not struggling church would suggest that to be the time, would they not? Im not talking about economic or social status variances but how much you embrace Truth and the push back that comes with that.
The only way unity comes when embracing Truth, is through Truth and that is the humility of repentance. So somebody has to be wrong, right?! I think the way this is written – and it could be my English – is that everything can be right, or correct. When we learn that we cant brush the pain and shame away because that is the quintessential path to understanding and revealing our need for Jesus. Experiencing godly sorrow, and then experiencing life-giving grace. Why do we want to brush Him away and think our kindness will overcome, when He already has.
Thank you for sharing! Yes, Karen’s article is intended to encourage unity among believers who are seeking Christ through His Word together. She describes Christ as our foundation – and Revelation paints such an inspiring picture of what we will experience through Jesus together!
Thank God for this article on division. I was ready to quit BSF after 20 years of study.
I have felt for the past 8 years that I don’t fit in.
I appreciate the in-depth 4-fold, Bible only approach, but it has been a huge struggle to not quit.
I pray this message touches every member.
Lori, we all want to feel a sense of belonging and we’re glad you persevered. Revelation gives us hope that one day we will be unified completely.
I attended and served in BSF leadership from 2006-2020. God has called me into full-time service in speech therapy and elementary public school special education. Many of the lessons that I learned in BSF serve and comfort me well in my career. In all of the seeming chaos, divisiveness and uncertainty, I hold close to the truth that in it all, God is still on His throne.
Thank you, BSF for always bringing timely messasge.
Only God knows the heart of those we elect to leadership roles. There is more than enough sin to go around and I am included in that group. I know God loves each and every one of these people regardless of their politics and that reminds me to show them grace just as God has done for me. The best thing we can do is pray for those in leadership roles and pray for our own discernment as we continue to seek the truth.
Well said Janet. We will all stand before a just God as the perfect Judge. In the meantime we can continue studying and sharing God’s truth. We can trust that He will convict those who seek Him.
Focus on what brings us together, not what separates! One day this world that we know shall all pass away, and we will be with Him!!
The message was so encouraging and thought provoking, especially with the turmoil and division we faced in our nation during the recent presidential election and continue to experience.
Only God knows the human heart and how we are led to make decisions in our life due to our circumstances at the time. We may regret these decisions as we mature in our faith and grow in his Word and fellowship with others. Thank God we can repent, and He is faithful to forgive! However, I think from looking back on my life that it makes me very careful not to judge others but pray for those who are struggling with issues they are experiencing. I can do this because I can look back on my life and know how to pray for them.
Amen. I agree completely.
However, we must never brush God’s truth through His Word aside all for the sake of unity.
Speaking truth in love is a must. God’s Word is our authority. We can speak the Word in love and grace, but must speak for God’s Word.
Dear Angela, thank you for sharing! Absolutely, Karen’s call to pray for others, to trust God’s Word, and to fix our eyes on Jesus is for those of us who may struggle to love one another well when differences arise. I personally found these verses from Revelation very helpful in the current climate and have loved praying through them 🙂
Thank God that we can learn from different opinions. This is how we learn.
Jesus stood up to the Pharisees with strong convictions and we need to do the same to avoid being mislead. The consequences are too great to not have these sometimes difficult conversations and people’s salvation may be at risk. Why are so so afraid to have the conversation?
Dear Stephanie, thank you for sharing! Difficult conversations among God’s people are necessary and important. In this article, Karen is sharing helpful ways we can examine our own hearts and minds and find hope in Christ when those conversations don’t go the way we want them to. This was very helpful: “Revelation reminds me that when I struggle through disappointment on earth, I can trust God’s promises for the future.”
Hi,”
I have just read that article on “Can Christians Disagree Without Division?”. I honestly believe that it missed the main problem with divisions in churches; it says nothing about where the division in a church is serious and must be confronted.
The point in writing this is that there are some disputes that arise in churches that often have problems that must be acted on and dealt with otherwise it could be the death knell of that church. Sometimes it requires someone just like Daniel with a certainty of faith willing to go into the lion’s den rather than compromise and let the error flourish. It is not about trying to define the different problems you may encounter and what to do with those problems; but more to do with the caliber of the people raised to deal with those problems.
GB. Karl
Dear Karl, absolutely! Just as Daniel sought the Lord in prayer for wisdom, Karen calls us to do the same. The focus of her article was not about sin within the church, but about how Jesus can bring unity when differences threaten to divide God’s people.
Her reminder to trust God in all circumstances and to work in the heart of all Christians was deeply encouraging to me. On the issue of sin, our Revelation study covers this very clearly, inspiring us to repent and respond to God today.
You may like this article from Hollie Roberts regarding the prophets:
https://bsfblog2025.onecreative.net/the-prophets-remained-faithful-and-we-can-too/
Karen, I really loved your perspective and insight. Back when my husband was in seminary, I participated in a two week adventure.
She ended the seminar by saying it was important to see how the world and the devil will separate the people of God. We must not allow it. And we must recognize it for what it is. Then she quoted Romans 12: 1-2: Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.
We are all created by the One True God, regardless of which nation we come from or our physical differences. Thank you Heavenly Father for
sending Jesus to save us and thank you for your Word that reassures
us in knowing, in Rev. 7.9 which says there was a great multitude, that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages standing before the throne, and before the Lamb. Hallelujah
Thank you for topic on differences and divisions and yet be in unity for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I will include some key concepts you wrote in my BSF study this week.
Truth spoken in love. Is not this the message Jesus embodied as we saw in John’s Gospel last year? Jesus never seemed to worry about offending His Own people, what was then “the church”: the Jews and notably the Pharisees. Burning with love and zeal for His Father’s house, His Word, His Will, His Righteousness, Jesus overturned the tables in the Temple without care of what anyone thought. He proclaimed that we must eat His flesh and drink His blood, and the offended people left in droves, to the point where Jesus asked His own disciples, “Will you too leave Me?” Jesus Himself, our Cornerstone, is “A Stone that will cause stumbling and a Rock that will give [men] offense,” (1 Peter 2:8 reiterated from Isaiah 8:14). YET His burning and zealous love was also directed toward us and carried Him through the most excruciating death on the cross to save us. That is what true Love looks like — unconditional and with no thought of Self, focused only on the wellbeing of the beloved. This is the love that can only come from the Holy Spirit allowed inside us; it cannot fail regardless of what others may say or do.
In God, Truth and Love are conjoined. “The Spirit of Truth” applies “The Word of Truth”– this was heralded in every chapter of John as we saw it lived out in Christ’s life and were promised the opportunity to join in the intimacy of it in the upper room.
Does scripture anywhere equate loving people with never daring to say anything that might be construed as offensive? It would be unconscionable for doctor to withhold an uncomfortable truth when confronting it might save the body. OUR PRECIOUS HOUR IN BSF MUST BE SAFEGUARDED AS STUDY OF THE WORD!! However, for the church to become one as our Triune God is One — one in mind and heart with HIM, subjects like this should not be avoided as we yearn to learn what He thinks and desires. We are told to occupy this kingdom until He returns.
Wasn’t it surprising to see the timing of this lesson 8 in Daniel corresponding to this political week?! The first seven chapters deal with earthly rulers, the repercussions of their mandates, our own responsibility to God’s dominion, and the Holy Spirit of Wisdom and Truth bringing these leaders to accountability before God through those individuals in whom He dwells. God can teach the heart of the king to reverence Him. We should be aware of Daniel’s king Cyrus, the king of Persia selected by God to rebuild God’s temple and return the captive children of Israel after the 70 years were over (Daniel 1:21; 6:8; 10:1; 2). We might pray what God declared over him in Isaiah 45:1-13 over all our leaders. This lesson in Daniel underscored that God has a will concerning which one He places in position. He gave favor to Daniel and the other three companions, but I wonder if there might have been others brought into captivity who lost their lives by refusing to bow either to Nebuchadnezzar or to Darius.
“Diversity” is the beauty God created wherein each of us are so preciously unique. “Differences” may mean lesser policies or they may mean the life and death issues we saw in Kingdom Divided such as sacrificing children to Baal or the multitudinous times we read, “…and so-and-so did evil in the sight of the Lord and caused Israel to sin,” leading often to invasion, destruction, and death. True Unity in diversity comes from 1 Cor. 2:9-16, the Holy Spirit Who alone knows the mind of God and gives us His mind. It is the opposite of Genesis 11:6 wherein God visited Babel and said, “They IS one” (actual Hebrew tense): in this case plurality acting as a single mind and creative will for evil. We are called to be the opposite “IS ONE” — joined in mind and will with our God, knowing His Word, seeking His Will in everything, not being offended by our own preconceptions, presumptions or pride, but humbly standing shoulder to shoulder in firm array to counter the evil we face. The Living God says, “Come, let us reason together…,” and He offers us the opportunity for His Holy Spirit to dwell inside us and bear the fruit of Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-control to bind us together as we reach out together to ascertain His Will. Rather than avoiding hard issues that others may consider “divisive” and “offensive,” we ought to strive to be the most unified of people on earth, having the mind of Christ and the mind of the Holy Spirit and holding the thoughts and feelings of His heart. (1 Cor. 9:16).
I love you all.
Dear Carolyn, you shared a wonderful statement regarding Christ as “full of grace and truth” (John 1:14) as repeated in John. Our Revelation study will reveal more about God’s character and Jesus’s attributes as we study how “grace and truth” are perfectly balanced in Jesus. Praying for you as you continue to share God’s Word with others.
Carolyn, you mentioned the mind of Christ. The mind of Christ recognizes and acknowledges the Father as His God, both pre and post ascension (John 20:17, Rev. 3:12, Eph.1:17, 1 Pet. 1:3, etc.).
Of course! Thank you for pointing this out, Terry.
It is so far beyond my comprehension to grasp this Word Who was in the beginning with God and Who was God; this Melchizedek, our High Priest without beginning or ending of days, One with the Father and Holy Spirit, yet Who became the Only Begotten Son of the Father for all eternity, Who stripped Himself of everything that made Him part of the Godhead in order to become like us in every way and without advantage. I marvel that “in Him the whole fullness of Deity continues to dwell in bodily form” — forever to be like us so that we might be wed to Him. I can’t grasp with my imagination any of this, but at the same time I can see in Him what we are to become: obedient children of the Father, submitted and surrendered in every way just as each Member of the Godhead with their own unique personality and will lovingly surrenders to the other. The Father has retained time in His jurisdiction according to Acts 1, but He has given all matters of judgment into Christ’s hands… and yet Jesus judges as the Father bids Him. It’s a wonderous giving back and forth, this John 17 Oneness of will, purpose and expression.
When I wrote of the mind of Christ I was thinking not only of 1 Corinthians 2:9-16 (sorry that I really messed up typing that reference!) but also of Colossians 2:3: (Amplified classic) “In Him all the treasures of [divine] wisdom (comprehensive insight into the ways and purposes of God) and [all the riches of spiritual] knowledge and enlightenment are stored up and lie hidden.” We will spend eternity learning in awe. Meanwhile, we have a lot of learning to be done here — not only learning about Him but moreover learning to recognize Him — and then to learn to love what He loves and hate what He hates. It’s frustrating that so often an animal can discern its master much easier than I seem to discern my God. BUT, we have more of a challenge in some ways! Whenever I’ve heard or performed Handel’s MESSIAH, I am always at a loss for words when I hear Isaiah 9 quoted about the Son Who is given to us: “His Name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Almighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace!” My sense of reason always fizzles out at that passage because I can’t compartmentalize or presume to know a thing. The Spirit is also called “Counselor,” the Father is always “Everlasting Father.” Perhaps the Godhead is much more inseparably One than we can possibly know, just as “the Word” and “Truth” are conjoined. Perhaps that is why 1 Cor. 2:9-16 exists — to show that it’s impossible to comprehend God at all except through His Holy Spirit welcomed inside us… that and being obedient children to His every Word.
Thanks for this moment you gave me to reflect on how much I sometimes think I know but don’t ;)!
I meant to write 1 Cor. 2:9-16 at the end rather than 9:6. Sorry!
Please indicate what Jesus, Himself, says about His God, (the Father), in John 17:3.
What a beautiful way to show our unity in our Saviour. Thank you
I can understand how sincere Christians might disagree on which of the 2024 presidential candidates represents a greater evil, but I’m truly baffled by Christians who deny the grave (though very different) evils that characterize both of them. Based on conversations I’ve had, discernment seems to be in short supply.
Totally agree.
I agree, Mike. I am baffled as well.
Karen’s call to pray for one another and focus on the One who unites us is very timely.
Mike, your comments were beautiful and encouraging.
Thank you for such an insightful and much needed message❤️
The body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:12-27) will be in complete and total unity with the head of the body (Jesus) and the “body” will have the exact same theology as the head (Jesus) possesses. Why??? Because Jesus has told us that a house divided against itself will not stand (Mark 3:25). So the body will have the **same God** that Jesus, Himself has, which is the Father (Rev 3:12, John 20:17, Eph. 1:17, etc.) and the body will acknowledge the Father just as Jesus, Himself does, in John 17:3, with the Father being the **only** true God.
I needed this. Thank you! It is so true!!
An “old-time” pastor in San Antonio, Texas, once told me, “no matter our differences or denominational divisions in this life, all Christians will be unified in heaven.” Amen.
Thanks so much for this word. I am praying for unity within the church, but also in our nation.
It was something very important to God the Father and Jesus.
God is also showing me how I can be a promoter of unity by bringing people into my life who choose to do things differently. He is challenging my idea that my way is right and that they need to get on board. YIKES!!! How self righteous of me.
Thankful for His grace and mercy as He prepares me for His forever kingdom.
This really helped me see it from a different perspective! Thank you!
Amen! True and wonderful! I wish I could send this to others for encouragement!
You can! DeeDee, feel free to share – there are some “sharing” buttons at the top left of your screen if that helps.
Thank you for sharing this very timely information. We live in a world of turmoil and God commands we “love one another”. We are to love even when our opinions differ. We are in a training mode and God intends for us to live in unity with one another.
You’re so right Barbara. We’re even told that how we love one another ( and we can look to Jesus’s love as an example) shows us to be His disciples.
Such helpful wisdom this week!!!
Simply reading the scriptures in this blog brings a true sense of unity with God and the others around His throne. Praise the Lord!
Thank you!
‘When we look to Christ instead of scrutinizing others, we discover that Jesus gives us the wisdom and strength to navigate our differences without division’.
Thanks Karen for your encouragement,its true we need to be united as Go s children irrespective of our differences.
Iam a GL in BSF EM in Kampala Uganda and currently we are christians of different ethnic groups with the majority are the ones in power,so pray that we are together in Christ that political issues do not interfere in our walk with Christ and as His servants in BSF.God bless you.
Christopher, thank you for sharing! we are praying that with you
Thank you, Karen. This is very much needed for such a time as this! “We have much more in common than that what separates us.”
I just wanted to take a minute and thank those in Bsf that share the opinions and heart of Karen. Unity and love for each other is the true anchor, not being correct in doctrine and understanding. The attitude that we have to be correct and true to the Bible is often the wedge that drives us apart. The woman caught in adultery and the difficult position this put Jesus in, and His response is “in the Bible”. But many would rather focus on the versus in the Bible that are harsh and condemning in order to support their “higher” ground position. Jesus is the living word… not the words in the Bible. I say that mostly because I hear people often use scripture in a way that I dont believe Jesus himself would. We forget that one of the first things we are taught by the creation account is how to be in relationship with God. It was simple for Adam and Eve and it’s just as simple for us today. Stay close to the author of life , don’t drift, don’t allow yourself to be tempted to make an idol out of something that is seemingly good, but is not meant to preempt our personal encounter with God. The tree of the knowledge of good and evil was put in the center of the garden by God for a reason. I can not say that I even come close to understanding all His reasons for doing this… but I have full confidence that it was for our good, not our harm. Maybe it was a reference landmark? Suggesting that if you can see that tree , you know what to stay away from. By that I mean using “knowledge “ as a destination. We are told to stay clear of idols. Many have made this tree their idol and that idol has become a wedge.
I disagree that it was simple for Adam and Eve; and also simple for us. The daily struggle between good and evil is astoundingly complicated and difficult.
I very much appreciate your blog on division. Our differences though are more than social and political.
Jeff,
Our differences don’t have to divide if we ever took the time to really get to know each other.
I encourage BSF not to shy away from teaching the truth about these subjects when they present themselves in the study.
Application of Scripture is vital for us to know how to live out our Christian faith. If ever we needed more Daniels, we need them now.
Christine – thank you for sharing! Absolutely. Further discussion may be extremely helpful in localized contexts. The current issues experienced by our brothers and sisters in Chennai, India may differ from those experienced in Chicago, IL or Nairobi, Kenya. Your Teaching Leader is an excellent resource for help if you are concerned about how to approach specific issues in a localized context. God so faithfully speaks through His Word to all people, in all places, for all of time! Karen’s post was intended to encourage us to pray for one another, find common ground in Jesus, and place our hope in God’s promises as revealed in Scripture. I love how you shared ” If ever we needed more Daniels, we need them now.” Thank you!
Thank you! Love this read about unity
Thank you
I really liked this quote:
When we ask God to help us guard against division, we can trust that He will work through our differences in His time and in His ways.
Nice blog to share with people who are uncomfortable with what’s going on in the world, as it always has been. Diversity does not have to be division…only Satan wants that. To be seeing a revival in the body of Christ in our youth movements is so very exciting.
Thank you Karen for a very good encouraging word on how we can guard against division because we have differences of opinion. I now realize that my culture and ethnic background play a big role in how I view things that others might not agree with. However, I thank God, that diversity is how God planned the world; we were not created to be robotic figures of someone but to be imitators of Christ.
I would agree Janie. We can trust Him to reveal and correct where we are not in alignment with His word and purpose.
Salut guys.
I am practicing my french. The division we face now is how do we tax, should medicare and social security be done away with. Even in those critical areas my friends I disagree but still proclaim the name of Jesus.
Beautiful message of hope 🙏🏾🙏🏾
I love the thought of every nation, tongue etc worshiping together! My question though is, all that are worshiping together believe what the Bible says is true and have accepted him as Lord and Savior. So divisions about abortion, what is a man and a women, lawlessness etc, must be confessed just like all sin.
Emma, we get such a beautiful picture of corporate worship where there will be no sin present.
Come Lord Jesus!
Karen, there shouldn’t be “division” among true Christians about what constitutes sin, because the bible is clear.
We don’t need to bring the “culture” into the church, we need to bring Christ to the culture and that means addressing the hard truths of sin.
Hard truths may cause a “rub” for some people, but God’s Word should always be the final authority for His people.
Hi Christine, thank you for sharing! Karen is speaking to division among believers and the peace we find in allowing God to work in our brothers and sisters when we struggle to agree. This was a helpful reminder to me that the Holy Spirit works in the hearts of all Christians when we earnestly seek Him. Thankfully God’s Word gives us wisdom!
Amen!
Emma, the Bible says God hates pride, arrogance, and a lying tongue as well. We can’t cherry pick sins with God. It’s all unrighteousness to Him.
I believe like you that certain things are already judged by God as sin and must be confessed. Who are we to question God’s sovereignty. Does that make me wrong. I seek God’s truth and humbly and lovingly want to do his will. I truly believe that God hates the sin but loves the sinner for we have ALL sinned and come short of the glory of God. Praise God that he sent his son Jesus Christ to take our sins and leave us pure and righteous.
Yes these are my concerns as well.
Your article gives some wonderful advice. The concern I have is that you base your yard stick for evaluating on all different experiences but not on bibical values which never changes. We can all experiences wonderful cultural experiences but my yard stick is God’s word. I love all the diversity God has created within God’s people.
Barbara – absolutely and Karen would agree! “We can all experience wonderful cultural experiences but my yard stick is God’s word.”
Agree and I would also add that while biblical values never change, our understanding of them deepens through time with Him and His word.
Thank you, Barbara. That’s the point I wanted to make.
Barbara, I would add to your observation that “God’s yardstick” is a very long one and we can’t just pick the righteous “measurements” on it that we like. That’s where we need to be careful. We don’t live in a vacuum. Our background, experiences, and culture DO shape how we see things… even the SINS we choose to highlight or overlook.
This was a good word of encouragement to present hope and remind us to keep our focus on Jesus. Let us agree to continue to pray and worship our Lord. Our nation needs healing. Our hope is in the Lord. Grateful for the study of Revelation.
Karen, That was very good especially after this country voted. The saddest part I have seen so far is the disdain it brought out in others towards Christians. That is what we need to acknowledge so we can plow forward with Christ. God made all of us in His image and we can be One with His Son.
We do need to focus on Jesus and pray for each other, but we also need to look at the cultural issues from a biblical perspective. We need to speak the truth in love and humility, and not just avoid talking about hard truths.
I agree with you, Debbie.
Biblical issues or “hard truths” need to be taught and not ignored.
Christine, thank you for sharing! The purpose of Karen’s article was to encourage those of us who struggle to love one another when differences arise. In the wake of “hard truths” being taught, Karen reminds us to pray for one another, trust God to work, and find hope in His future promises. You are absolutely right, Biblical issues must not be ignored. That is one of the things I love about BSF – studying verse by verse and chapter by chapter ensures that we do not miss these amazing truths!
Is it ok for a class leader to bring up bits of election outcome?
Because it causes members to share opinions
It opens a can of worms
Elaine – in BSF we encourage members and leaders not to discuss politics. We do encourage all BSF members to dive deeply into God’s Word and apply it to everyday life. What can Revelation teach us about God to give us hope today?
That is always a helpful place to begin and unite – around God’s character
Christians should make choices that align most with what God says in his word!
Hi Cynthia, thank you for sharing! Karen made some lovely points on a few ways we can approach these issues while keeping Christ as our focus:
“When division threatens God’s people today and leads to disagreement, we can pray for one another. Through individual prayer for others, even those we disagree with, God softens our hearts and gives us renewed patience.”
I especially loved her reassurance that God is faithful to work in each of us when we seek Him wholeheartedly.
In another article, Karen shared about how division threatened the church through every culture and generation. This might offer some encouraging reading! https://bsfblog2025.onecreative.net/unexpected-unity-in-disagreement/?highlight=karen
Bennett, as I was reading through all the comments prior to yours above, I realized that it is precisely OUR own individual diverse circumstanced that provides our unique slant on Karen’s article. I realized the key words are…..GOD’S PEOPLE. This should be highlighted and underscored because while all people are God’s creation, not all of His human creation are “God’s People”. In my opinion, that’s where it’s really the most difficult to come together in a united agreement. It can be difficult enough with the diverse cultures among the people of God, but it seems to me Karen was not referring to those who do not belong to Him. As Christians in this world today, we truly must come together in unity. The day is coming where Jesus Himself will unite those who are remaining, in Him. That day will bring all diversity together in unity.
Sharon, absolutely. Thank you for sharing! Karen is referring to examining our own hearts and minds before engaging with fellow Christians about issues that threaten the unity of the Church.
Maybe it is a good time for us to wake up
I agree, Marcella
Agree Cynthia.
Good morning, I’m thankful for this article because it is so relevant in this day and age, I also believe it was relevant to the history of the bible. In my personal journey of faith, it has been revealed through God that I am unable to achieve His standard without Him. He so graciously provided His Counsellor to teach, guide and to intercede. In order for Him to work through me I must have a heart relationship with Him, not just knowledge of His Word. As Christians we are all at different stages of our journey and this week’s BSF lesson taught of Christian Unity through Him. It is not typical for me to respond, but after a night of prayer I felt compelled to share these 3 verses that came to me:
-John 8:7-11 NIV
Unbelief of the Jewish Leaders 7 When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” 8 Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground.
9 At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. 10 Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?”
11 “No one, sir,” she said.
“Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”
-Matthew 7 NIV
Judging Others 7 “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
3 “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 4 How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?
-Romans 3:21-24 NIV
Righteousness Through Faith 21 But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. 22 This righteousness is given through faith in[a] Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
As we read in Matthew 22:37-40 we are to Love God and Love our neighbor. Jesus states that these are the greatest of the Commandments. I am in prayer for all that are divided, and I am thankful for this blog and all that it revealed to me.
Thank you, Ann, for the verses shared.
We must speak the TRUTH IN LOVE, and be an example of Christ to those who disagree with us.
I came to Jesus out of the New Age because a close friend DID NOT COMPROMISE on God’s Word. She was loving, kind, fun and we debated our believes in kindness. God’s Word changed my heart and her Christlike way of life gave me the courage to fully receive Christ.
It’s a high calling to speak truth in love, and to live as Christ!
Angela thank you for sharing! What an amazing testimony. Karen gives us some helpful thoughts around how to prepare our hearts before we speak the truth in love and how to respond if there is disagreement.
“When division threatens God’s people today and leads to disagreement, we can pray for one another. Through individual prayer for others, even those we disagree with, God softens our hearts and gives us renewed patience.”
It sounds like that dear friend of yours was wonderfully patient as she prayed with you. Karen has challenged me to pray for wisdom, the correct words, and patience as I engage with fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.
Well said! Thanks for sharing that encouraging and true message!! To God be the Glory!!!
“Can Christians Disagree…”
Only if we are obeying God to resolve our differences, seeking to be “of one mind.”
10 I appeal to you, brothers,
by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,
that all of you agree,
and that there be no divisions among you,
but that you be UNITED in the same mind
and the same judgment.
1 Cor. 1
11 Finally, brothers, rejoice.
Aim for restoration,
comfort one another,
agree with one another,
live in peace;
and the God of love and peace will be with you.
12 Greet one another with a holy kiss.
13 All the saints greet you.
2 Cor. 13.
2 complete my joy
by being of the same mind,
having the same love,
being in full accord
and of one mind.
Phil. 2:2
I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche
to agree in the Lord.
Phil. 4:2
God is the authority on truth, not our personal opinions from whatever our external sources of authority we have allowed to rule our hearts.
Tim – so well said. Thank you for sharing! I love the call to “aim for restoration” – through Karen’s story we see a BSF class that did just that! This gives us hope that God can do this work in our families and communities. “Karen’s BSF class found unity through God’s Word.
I agree Tim.
I agree Tim. Opinions mean nothing without the compass of God’s Word.
God help us to love one another as you have loved us dispite our differences, cultures, ethnicities, nationalities, and denominations. LOVE is your nature and entire being. Help us to walk in it.