United We Fall

   No, I haven’t lost my mind, and yes, I do understand the principle of strength in unity. But the same energy, the product of unity, that builds cities and nations can be refocused to become a powerful, destructive force as well.

   An age old strategy in warfare is to study the activities of the opponent and introduce things into his lifestyle that will in essence cause him to destroy himself. There are numerous examples in the Bible, such as the story of Balaam in Numbers 22. Balaam, a prophet for hire, was employed by Balak, king of Moab, to curse God’s people, Israel. When God would not allow him to do so, as a consolation, Balaam gave Balak some evil advice. He told him that he could destroy Israel from within by having his pagan, idolatrous people intermarry with the Israelites. Within their very homes, his people could turn the Israelites to their gods and away from the true God. He knew that if Israel’s doctrine could be corrupted, the nation would fall. It worked! For more contemporary examples of this unite and conquer mentality, one might examine the tactics employed by Adolph Hitler and the Nazi party in W.W.II.

   Satan has been around since the beginning of time and is a master tactician, utilizing his understanding of human nature. He knows by observation what will effectively diminish the strength of God’s people, and in our day his prize tactic is unite and conquer.

   A recent article from a local newspaper demonstrates the relatively new and growing dynamic of unity at all cost. The article pointed out that the lines of doctrinal distinction that through the years have resulted in various denominations, are being dissolved. The columnist’s point was that people don’t really care about doctrine anymore, fellowship is more fun.

   Though there is a sense in which we can enjoy strength in unity, we must understand that our sufficiency is not in numbers, but in God and eternal truth. If we compromise in these, our unity becomes a destructive force rather than an impetus for good.