A couple of preachers got together for a cup of coffee one day. During the course of the conversation one minister asked the other, “How many people do you have in your church?”

“About 100”, was the reply.

“How many of them are active?”

“All 100.”

“Really? I find it hard to believe that you have 100 members and all of them are active!”

“It’s true. 50 of them are actively supporting me and the other 50 are actively working against me!”

Sadly, this humorous story holds some truth for many congregations. It’s a shame that Christians can’t be more in harmony with one another. Jesus prayed that his followers would be united so that the world would know that God had sent Jesus to save the world (John 17). Much of our evangelistic success will depend on our ability to get along with one another.

“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”—Ephesians 4:3.