Why is Christian doctrine so divisive?
Doctrine and Unity: A Biblical and Baptist Perspective
The word doctrine is often misunderstood or even avoided by some Christians who view it as divisive or as a barrier to unity in the Body of Christ. The argument commonly presented is that doctrine causes disagreements and schisms, and therefore, should be downplayed for the sake of unity, as Jesus prayed in John 17:21 (NKJV): “That they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me.” While it is true that God desires unity among His people, biblical unity is not achieved by minimizing doctrine or compromising truth. Instead, unity must be built upon the foundation of sound doctrine.
Doctrine, or the teaching of biblical truths, is at the heart of the Christian faith. Far from being a curse word, doctrine is essential for understanding who God is, what He has done, and how believers are to live in response. The Apostle Paul warns in 2 Timothy 4:3 (NKJV): “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers.” This passage highlights the danger of rejecting sound doctrine in favor of teachings that cater to personal preferences. This lesson explores the role of doctrine in the Christian faith, the reasons for divisions caused by doctrine, and the biblical approach to handling such divisions.
The Importance of Doctrine
Doctrine is foundational to Christianity. Without sound doctrine, the faith becomes an empty shell, vulnerable to false teachings and distortions. The Bible emphasizes the necessity of sound doctrine repeatedly. Titus 1:9 (NKJV) commands: “Holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict.”
The Christian faith rests on key non-negotiable doctrines, such as:
The deity of Christ: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God… And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:1, 14, NKJV).
The substitutionary sacrifice of Christ: “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Corinthians 5:21, NKJV).
The resurrection of Christ: “And if Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins!” (1 Corinthians 15:17, NKJV).
Salvation by grace through faith: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast” (Ephesians 2:8–9, NKJV).
These doctrines are absolutely essential and non-negotiable. To deny or compromise on any of these truths is to depart from the Christian faith. They form the core of what it means to believe in and follow Jesus Christ.
Other important doctrines, while not as central to salvation, are still critical to a proper understanding of the faith. These include the Trinity, the inspiration and inerrancy of Scripture, and the reality of eternal states (heaven and hell). If division occurs because of disagreements on these doctrines, it is a necessary division. As Paul instructed Titus, we must “teach what accords with sound doctrine” (Titus 2:1, NKJV).
Doctrines Worth Dividing Over
Unity in the Body of Christ does not mean unity at all costs. The Bible teaches that there are times when division is necessary to preserve the purity of the Gospel and the truth of Scripture. Jude exhorts believers to “contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 1:3, NKJV).
Doctrines that impact salvation or the nature of God are worth defending, even if it causes division. For example:
Another Gospel: Paul condemns false teachers who preach a distorted message, saying: “But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed” (Galatians 1:8, NKJV).
Scriptural authority: The Bible warns against adding to or taking away from God’s Word: “For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book” (Revelation 22:18, NKJV).
Doctrinal purity is vital because it preserves the integrity of the faith and the witness of the church. While such divisions may be painful, they are necessary for the sake of truth.
Doctrines Not Worth Dividing Over
Not every doctrinal disagreement warrants separation. Many issues, while important, do not affect salvation or the core truths of the faith. Examples include:
The timing of the rapture: Whether one holds to a pre-tribulation, mid-tribulation, or post-tribulation view does not determine one’s salvation.
Young-earth vs. old-earth creationism: Both views affirm God as Creator, even if they differ on the timeline.
Charismatic vs. non-charismatic: Believers may disagree on the gifts of the Spirit without questioning each other’s faith.
These secondary issues should not lead to divisions that question the validity of another’s salvation. Instead, they should be approached with grace and humility, recognizing that dedicated, Christ-loving believers may hold differing views.
When Division Is Necessary
Even in non-essential matters, division may sometimes be unavoidable to preserve the unity of a local church. Amos 3:3 (NKJV) asks: “Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” If doctrinal differences prevent a church from maintaining a united ministry focus, it may be best for individuals to worship elsewhere rather than create conflict. This type of division, while regrettable, can allow for a peaceful resolution and the continuation of ministry in different settings.
The Real Cause of Division
It is not doctrine itself that causes division but rather a failure to understand and submit to biblical truth. Ecclesiastes 7:20 (NKJV) declares: “For there is not a just man on earth who does good and does not sin.” Our fallen nature, combined with personal biases and presuppositions, often prevents us from interpreting Scripture correctly. Romans 3:23 (NKJV) confirms: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
If believers approached Scripture with humility and a willingness to be corrected by God’s Word, much division could be avoided. As 2 Timothy 2:15 (NKJV) instructs: “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
The Goal: Unity in Truth
True biblical unity is achieved through sound doctrine, not apart from it. Jesus prayed in John 17:17 (NKJV): “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” Unity in the Body of Christ must be built on the foundation of God’s Word, not on human traditions or compromises.
While we may “agree to disagree” on non-essential matters, we should never compromise on the core truths of the faith. In all things, we are called to model the love and humility of Christ. John 13:34-35 (NKJV) reminds us: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”
Conclusion
Doctrine is not a curse word but a vital component of the Christian faith. It provides the foundation for understanding God, salvation, and holy living. While some doctrines are worth dividing over, others should not disrupt fellowship among believers. By approaching Scripture with humility, submitting to its authority, and striving for unity in truth, Christians can honor God and build up His church. As Ephesians 4:3 (NKJV) urges: “Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Let us pursue unity that is rooted in sound doctrine, upheld by love, and aimed at glorifying Christ.
