Overview:
We do not live and die only unto ourselves. This is true of humanity but particularly
true of Christians. Believers in Christ are interwoven and interrelated, comprising an
interdependent system of cells and nerves, muscles and limbs in the same body—the
body of Christ. It is not surprising, therefore, that the Bible frequently emphasizes the
importance of unity among the Lord’s people. However, no one can deny the presence
of diversity in God’s family. We know the value of unity, yet we cannot ignore the
reality of diversity. And therein lies “the rub”! Because of the weak believer’s human
tendency to judge those who don’t embrace his or her customs and convictions and, on
the other hand, because of the strong believer’s decision to discount judgments passed
by those who find fault in his or her expressions of freedom, conflict emerges and
persists. The solution is to put grace into action.
