Can there be “unity in diversity” in matters of doctrine?
The word “unity” means “the state of being one.” It
entails full agreement or harmony. The term “diversity” is
just the opposite. It means “different.” When people speak
of having “unity in diversity,” they simply mean “agreeing to
disagree.” In the area of religion, it has to do with having
unity, oneness, or harmony, while being diverse or different
in matters of faith and doctrine. The question is, “Does the
Bible grant us this liberty?” Can we just agree to disagree
when it comes to matters of doctrine?
Before answering this specific question, let’s address the
issue as it relates to matters of opinion and indifference.
The Bible certainly teaches that people can “agree to
disagree” with regard to matters of opinion and indifference.
The contention that arose over John Mark between Paul and
Barnabas in Acts 15:37-40 clearly shows that in matters of
opinion there can be disagreement, yet no rupture of
fellowship. Something good did in fact come from this matter
of difference – two missionary trips resulted, instead of the
one. Later on, Paul recommended John Mark (Col. 4:10).
Back to the main issue. 2 John 9-11 states, “Whosoever
transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not
God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the
Father and the Son. (10) If there come any unto you, and bring
not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him
God speed: (11) For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of
his evil deeds.” Clearly, these verses alone (more could be
given) teach that there can’t be unity in diversity in matters
of doctrine. Having unity is based upon abiding in the
doctrine of Christ. If a person (or a group of people) does not
abide in the doctrine of Christ, then it is sinful to bid that
person (or group of people) God speed. In other words, there
can be no fellowship (cf. Eph. 5:11; Rom. 16:17). The Bible
does not teach unity at all costs, as some teach. Rather,
truth is the basis of unity.