So many concepts and doctrines of the Christian faith require an ongoing tension between two equally important truths. There are many illustrations, such as faith and works, justification and sanctification, election and free will, praying and doing, and so on. In this issue of reNEWS we have explored the tension between unity and diversity.

Both are important, to be sure. Both are biblical concepts and necessary realities in the church of Jesus Christ. Both are given a lot of attention in apostolic writing. Both are at the forefront of the minds of Presbyterians these days. And it is easy to get them out of balance or even backward.

The biblical witness emphasizes the continuity and unity of everything and everyone who is in spiritual union with Jesus Christ. That is only natural. If Christ is the Son of God, Savior of the world, and the true source of abundant and eternal life, then everyone and everything emanating from him is going to bear that same likeness. As he reproduces himself in us, we will be like him! That is the wonderful gift of God in Christ Jesus. There is diversity in the Body of Christ to be sure, but there is an essential oneness that is effected and demonstrated as every gift of the Spirit works in proper relationship with the other gifts. In fact, unity in the midst of diversity is the work of the Holy Spirit.

An unbalanced view of tolerance promotes other religions as on a par with Christ, which is simply false and misleading.

The problem stems from a false doctrine that teaches a form of unity apart from Jesus Christ. The Scriptures reveal that Christ works in a variety of ways, and with a diversity of gifts, but never from a different source. That is the problem with an unbalanced view of tolerance. It promotes other religions as on a par with Christ, which is simply false and misleading. No one but Christ gives the Holy Spirit; no one but Christ is equal with God; no one but Christ has been chosen from before the foundation of the world to be the Savior. Other religions may have insights into truth and righteousness, but their only source is Christ. He is the one to be recognized and honored. Those claiming a relationship with God apart from Christ will have a rude awakening at the day of his return.

On the other hand, those who honestly seek truth and righteousness will find it in Christ. Those same persons will stand in the day in which the world finds that God is not as tolerant as some wish to think. It matters to God not only how people think; it also matters how they act. Perhaps the virtue that the world should focus on is patience. God is demonstrating it, but not forever! Whatever is of Christ by faith will stand; everything else will not.

Peace be to the whole community, and love with faith,

from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all

who have an undying love for our Lord Jesus Christ (Eph 6:23-24).