Instead of Judging, Let's Carry Each Other's Burdens

Dr. KP Yohannan: “The Body of Christ is complete only because of differences.”

Sometimes it may feel like there are so many differences in the church body—if only everyone shared the same understandings and experiences, perhaps then the conflicts would be resolved. However, the Bible affirms the differences that we might scorn. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 12:

¹²For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ. ¹³For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—and have all been made to drink into one Spirit. ¹⁴For in fact the body is not one member but many.

So, the differences we see might actually be the way God is working in the church for His glory. Sometimes, our pride keeps us from being able to see the good in the differences among us. Dr. KP Yohannan offers an alternative perspective:

Consider how many different people, ministries, churches and mission organizations there are. Each has been given a particular assignment from God and carries with it different strengths and weaknesses. Whether we realize it or not, we all need each other. We cannot stand alone. . ..

When we are willing to let go of our own views and embrace the way God chooses to work in the midst of differences, then we can fully see the strength of the Church.

church, differences, body, members — A believer in Asia smiles for the camera following a church service.

Keeping the Body Healthy

We each play our own part in the Church. We are each different. We each are indispensable. When we see a brother or sister hurt or stumbling, it affects us too. Instead of judging one another for our differences, let’s instead follow what Galatians 6:2 tells us, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

While the body has many members and with it comes many differences, our differences are what makes us stronger. Dr. KP Yohannan concludes,

Let us then imitate Jesus, rejoice in our differences and make the effort to see the value and gifts each of us brings to the whole. In this appreciation of each other and how the Lord has made us, He will be glorified.