Be Ye All Of One Mind

After Peter finishes his exhortation on the duties of wives (v. 1), and husbands (v. 7), he now exhorts us to practice the virtues of unity and compassion within the body of believers in Christ (Eph 4:4). When we express these virtues in our lives, we can be “all of one mind.” We cannot move forward towards our goals and commitments unless we are in agreement with one another (Amos 3:3). As a local church, we are to be “likeminded” (Php 2:2); by continuing together “with one accord in prayer and supplication” (Acts 1:14), and “with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel” (Php 1:27). There will be “strife” (Lk 22:24), “contentions” (Prov 18:18), and “divisions” (1 Cor 11:18), if people try to walk together with a different mind! We can always agree to disagree on certain things (Rom 14:5).

But it’s important to show “compassion one of another,” by being conscious of other people’s distress and having a desire to extend a helping hand (Jude 1:22). In other words, we don’t just look at a problem and make all kinds of assumptions – we must try our very best to help in the solution (1 Jn 3:17). This is how we show genuine love “without dissimulation” (Rom 12:9), or without hypocrisy. We ought to “love as brethren” with an honest love that shows no pretense! Because we live in a world that is filled with harsh and insensitive people (Ps 92:6). Bible-believing Christians are called to be “the salt of the earth” (Mt 5:13), and to “shine as lights in the world” (Php 2:15).

 When we exemplify “gentleness” (Gal 5:22), and “brotherly kindness” (2 Pet 1:7), we are also being “pitiful” or “tenderhearted” (Eph 4:32) towards the feelings of others; especially in their sorrows. This is coupled with being “courteous;” suggesting a gracious demeanor that honors others with love and respect in our communication (Col 4:6). May we learn to apply all these virtues in our lives! God bless you!

- Pastor Melito Barrera