When I listen to certain talk radio programs or watch the shouting matches on cable television news, I become sensitized to the differences that divide people in their beliefs. Honestly, if I took in a steady diet of these programs, my wife would probably send me out to the doghouse for being too grouchy.

Healthy disagreement is good. Yet, our culture seems obsessed with highlighting the differences between us.

For centuries we have witnessed a similar disagreeable attitude between Christians. Did you know that there are roughly 33,000 Protestant denominations scattered around the world today? Along with Roman Catholics and followers of Eastern Orthodoxy, there are many who claim to be “Christian.”

Christians have been sorting out their differences since the Resurrection. One cynic mumbled, “Where two or three Christians are gathered, there are at least four opinions on any given subject.” I am sure Jesus foresaw these divisions when He prayed for His church to be one (John 17:21).

It reminds me of the story of the man who was rescued from a deserted island. The captain of the rescuing ship marveled at the resourcefulness of the castaway—who was the island’s sole occupant.

Pointing to a developed corner of the island, the captain remarked, “Tell me about those three fine looking huts over there.” The castaway said, “The first is my home. The second is my church. The third is the church I used to go to.”

For a moment, think about some of the things that the majority of Christians have in common.

First, we have respect for the Bible as the Word of God. I am so glad that God did not leave us without any instructions for living.

Second, we believe that Jesus Christ is the divine Son of God. Jesus Himself said, “I am the way, the truth and the life” (John 14:6). Christians, by very definition of the term “Christian” are “little Christs.” Although we are imperfect and far from divine, in our finest moments, we all want to be more like our Savior, Jesus.

Another similarity that many Christians share is our desire to follow the Golden Rule. We all want to treat others as we wish to be treated.

Granted, we often fail in this very auspicious endeavor. Nevertheless, it is this ideal that has inspired Christians all over the world to build churches, hospitals, clinics, orphanages, and schools.

I have never seen a hospital or an orphanage built in honor of atheism. However, many wonderful things have been accomplished because Christians have desired to live out their commitment to follow the example of Jesus Christ.

Many religious leaders have decided to magnify the differences among churches and denominations. Perhaps they believe that their base is motivated best when they are addressing an “enemy” or organizing a fight. Personally, I think that there have been moments when this attitude has done more damage than good.

Certainly, we should have principles that are important to us. Yet, I believe the time has come that we can learn to be more cooperative with each other. Our culture may accentuate the differences.

I believe God’s Word gives us evidence that sticking together is a more productive mindset for the Christian. “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12).

Remember, God thinks unity is a good thing! “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1)

— Chris Crain, Pastor, North Valley Church, Margaret; South Roebuck Baptist Church, Birmingham