Diversity is essential to the Body of Christ. Diversity [not division] is the God given quality of uniqueness with which we are
endowed. [1Cor12:4-7] It identifies each of us as individual and glorifies God for His infinite creativity. Although misused for
the purpose of dividing Christians, this individuality is actually purposed by God to strengthen the Body. Fingers differ from
hands, hands are very different from arms; but they serve each other and empower the Body to reach and grasp.
We are instructed to be in unity of Spirit by diversity of gifts. [Eph4:3-5] This means we are to share the same core beliefs
and salvation, while maintaining our God given uniqueness. We are created in His image, meaning we, conjointly,
resemble God. All of us together in unity reflect the multi-faceted diverse image of the Lord. [Eph4:13]
For example, if I were trying to write this letter with white ink on white paper. See how totally ineffective it is when I write
inside this white box using white text. It is all but impossible to get the message across with
everything the same color.
See the distinct improvement with the diversity of color when I use black text on the plain white background.
The message is now better understood, and its’ meaning has more impact because diversity is working
together.
Now see the same text box as I use a blend of colors. The message is not only clearer, but has
vibrancy and is attractive. It was, most likely, the 1st image your eyes were drawn to when you
opened this page. This is a pictorial example of our diverse cultural, ethnic, and social backgrounds, unifying around the
common core of eternal salvation through Jesus Christ.
Separation of diversities and like gifts only weakens the effect of our specialization. [Who wants to be all thumbs?]
[Romans12:4] Who wants to hear a band of ten pianos with no drums and guitar, or see every painting only in red? We
must examine our differences, finding ways to develop our diversity, utilizing our gifts so that we can work together [serving
one another].
As we have seen recently in World events, there is precious little time left for us to competitively squabble about this
doctrine, that gift, this heritage, or that culture. It is time to revive the unity of Spirit through Jesus Christ and diversity of gifts
which, after all, are from God and for Him.
Love In Christ,
Gregory & Linda Emler
| The Diversity of Color |