In the study guide for Ephesians, the author, Tony Merida, wrote, "No differences or conflicts should divide God's church." Well, that might look good on a poster behind a pastor's desk, but I am convinced it will never happen this side of heaven. Furthermore, I am not sure God wants 100% agreement with all denominations.
Here is my reasoning. If all churches were in 100% agreement on all things of theology, eschatology, and apologetics, there would be no mysteries to plumb, no unknowns in scripture, and the possibility for an arrogance that would sow the seeds for another Tower of Babel.
God intentionally left parts of His word unclear, imprecise, and confusing. If all were clear, agreeable precepts, plans, and prophecies, where would the need be for deep Bible study and rigorous debate.
One interpretation. One church. Zero challenge. Zero growth.
Division, when kept civil, is positive. It causes one to learn to defend beliefs It creates scholars and experts.
The basic tenants of the Christian faith must be universal, but so much of the rest of the scripture is left open to personal, local, and denominational interpretation.
Strength lies in diversity.
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