One Mind - One Purpose

“Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another and working together with one mind and purpose.” – Philippians 2:2

Does this mean that will think and act alike? It wouldn’t be consistent with the rest of scripture.  We certainly must agree on the main issues of the Christian faith.  We might disagree on what those main issues are.  There are many minor matters that will bring a great deal of difference of opinion.  I dare not begin to list them - that would go against this text.

Uniformity and unity are not the same things. I believe you can have unity and we can have different opinions.  Uniformity comes from the word uniform.  It’s the action to get everyone looking alike so that nobody steps out line.  It’s a way to control behavior.  Uniformity is intimidating.  It can be awe inspiring.

Unity is to be like-minded or to have the mind of Christ.  Unity is to see things as Christ would see them and respond as He would respond. To agree wholeheartedly and love one another means to have a love that did not count the cost.  Have you ever had a friend that didn’t count the cost of being your friend?  If yes, you’ve been blessed!

NLT says, “working together with one mind and purpose”. I love to use this text when talking to leaders and churches about vision.  Working together with one mind and purpose is to move in harmony toward the vision of where God is leading.  It is to be in  unity as to show the mind of Christ is directing our every move. 

In terms of mission, vision, and values this text speaks to having an understanding of where Christ is leading and we pull together to get there; and we are having a great time doing it!