"Is thine heart right, as my heart is with thy heart? And Jehonadab answered, It is. If it be, give me thine hand."
(2 Kings 10:15)
Introduction
The Royal Law teaches us that we should love everyone (Matthew 5:43-45.) This is Christ's love in His followers, yet very few Christians actually practice it. There are two general hindrances to love between fellow believers: (1) They are not think
alike; (2) They do not act alike. Differences in belief and worship may prevent many believers from being totally united with one another externally, but spiritually we can remain as one. The story of Jehu and Jehonadab highlights the need to get true Christian unity into perspective.
Is thine heart right, as my heart is with thy heart?
Jehu does not ask about Jehonadab's beliefs or opinions. Jehonadab's family were abstainers from alcoholic drinks (Jeremiah 35), while Jehu was a maniac driver (2 Kings 9.) Their personal preferences did not get in the way of fellowship.
There are many Christians who hold beliefs that we cannot go along with. The important thing is that we recognise that we all err on some matters, therefore it is not our responsibility to pass judgement upon others. We should allow them the same freedom of thought that we have come to expect for ourselves, rather than trying to impose our opinions and pet doctrines on them. Wise men are patient with those who differ from them. God alone will judge all men and their opinions.
Jehu did not question Jehonadab's form of worship. Our beliefs naturally determine our practices and form of worship. What matters most in that we worship God in spirit and truth (John 4:24.) All true worshippers must honour God in holiness and godly sincerity, being convinced in their own hearts that God receives such praise; for each one is personally and individually accountable to God. We should never disqualify someone because they attend another church, even if they actually reject our fellowship.
Our fellowship is with those who accept the fundamental teachings of God's written word. We find unity with those who believe that God is the Creator and Sustainer of all things, that Jesus Christ is the only Saviour of the lost, and who desire to walk in holiness and faith.
Is our faith filled with the power of Christian love? Do we love God with all our heart, soul, and strength, and our neighbour as ourselves? Do we hate every false way, yet love even our enemies and those who abuse us? Do we have the love that reaches out to all of God's people?
If it be, give me thine hand
Jehu and Jehonadab did not enter into debate but into fellowship. Each believer must cling to what he considers to be most pleasing to God, but not use it as a sword to sever Christian unity. Can we not face this fallen world hand in hand? This means that we must accept others the way they are and for who they are. We must love one another as true brothers and sisters in Christ.
This kind of love assumes no evil, but covers a multitude of sins. It is willing to work through each personal conflict for the glory of God. If we were more willing to pray for each other than criticise God's power would flow amongst us. Criticism is always destructive, but prayer heals, builds up, and comforts. Let's seek to encourage our fellow Christians on in the faith. By joining hands we can lighten each others burden. Many believers need someone to draw alongside to urge them on to a life of holiness, joy, and commitment.
The importance of balance
All true believers ought to possess a 'catholic spirit.' This does not mean that we ignore error, profane worship, and sin in other people or congregations. To do so would be apathy rather than love. Those who have a 'catholic spirit' do not search for new or hidden teachings, for their faith is firmly settled in God's written word. The one who is doctrinally stable will never be found sitting on the fence of liberalism, ecumenism, or false love.
With of course cannot fellowship with those who hold beliefs or practices that defy the plain teaching of Scripture. To do so would find us uniting with the spirit of antichrist rather than the spirit of Christ. Those who seek to worship God by means prohibited by Him can never find unity with the true child of God. We cannot join hands, for whatever reason, with idolaters and infidels. We are not called to be broadminded, indifferent, and apathetic regarding false religion and pseudo-Christian organisations. Our companions are those who love and serve the Lord in faithfulness.
Conclusion
Having a 'catholic spirit' means that we possess Christian love for our fellow man. It produces unity and fellowship wherever it is found. It is found among those who fear God and desire to do what is pleasing to Him. Having a 'catholic spirit' means that we do not reject another believer because we do not see eye to eye on non-salvation issues. Having a 'catholic spirit' means that we love and uphold our brothers and sisters in Christ in prayer. We seek to encourage them in every possible way. Having a 'catholic spirit' means that we are actually and actively fulfilling the Royal Law.