Symbols of Unity

      The fourth chapter of Ray Vander Laan’s book Cultures in Conflict is entitled “The Lord’s Supper: Discerning the Body.”   He highlights the first chapter of Paul’s letter to Corinth in which he reminds the early Christian converts of the importance of the unity.  Paul notes how important it is “that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought” (1 Corinthians 1:10).  In contrast to the rampant sin that characterized Corinth, Paul encouraged the community of believers to reflect the shalom (peace) that Christ had made possible.  

      Vander Laan noted that the new believers found it difficult to leave behind the ethical, moral, and social practices of their former pagan lifestyle.  Paul was attempting to demonstrate to the Christian converts how to live in the love and unity needed to display God’s true character and establish his kingdom in Corinth. Similarly, some of our denominational tensions reflect the challenges that we encounter when our old proclivities continue to emerge even when we are trying to live as disciples and when we are trying to fulfill the mission of the church.  

       Interestingly, the letter of James also addresses the source and outcome of conflicts—“What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battlewithin you?  You desire but do not have, so you kill.You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight” (James 4:1-2).  While disagreements can easily divide, discussions offer opportunities for understanding and growth.   Although, arguments can become heated and can be accompanied by hateful rhetoric, flames among us can also symbolize a passion for Christ that unites us in our missionary zeal.   The cross and flame of The United Methodist Church symbolize the unification of The Evangelical United Brethren and The Methodist Episcopal denominations.  

    A flaming cross often signifies fear, anger and intimidation.  However, the cross and flame hold entirely different meanings for us.  Whenever you see the cross and flame, recall the determination to work collaboratively that led to the establishment of The United Methodist Church.   It is a symbol of unity and a sign that leads to a hope that we all embrace.  

       As we continue to journey with Paul, let us learn about the countercultural unity that characterizes the followers of Jesus.  We’ll see you in church and in class Sunday morning.  

In Christ,
Jon McCoy