4. Why did Christ desire this oneness, or unity, to exist among His followers?
“That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” Verse 21.
5. By what did Christ say all men should know His disciples?
“By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 13:35.
Note.—“God has united believers in church capacity in order that one may strengthen another in good and righteous endeavor. The church on earth would indeed be a symbol of the church in heaven if its members were of one mind and of one faith. It is those who are not moved by the Holy Spirit that mar God's plan, and cause division, and strengthen the forces of darkness. Those who are sanctified by the blood of Christ will not counterwork God's work, nor perpetuate division in the church. When there is disunion among believers, the world concludes that they cannot be the people of God because they are working against one another. When believers are one with Christ, they will be united among themselves.”
6. How did Paul show his concern in this matter?
“Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” 1 Cor. 1:10.
7. What was a prominent cause of division in the early church?
“For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.” Acts 20:29, 30.
8. What was already at work in the church in Paul's day?