What keeps Christians apart?

'Secondary issues' are often the reason given for Christians staying apart from one another. But is there the possibility that there are issues lying underneath?

Jesus prayed:

"MY PRAYER is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message,that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.

I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. John 17:20-23

Disagreements on doctrine and matters of interpretation are a feature of the Christian church and have been through the centuries.

However it is possible that these differences on 'secondary issues' are being used to mask other problems like pride, petty preferences and 'sacred' traditions.

Is it too easy to trot out high-sounding reasons relating to doctrinal dogma to justify – whether at personal or corporate level — keeping other believers at arms length?

Christians Together and Thistle Channel TV caught up with one minister for a view -

Are 'Secondary Issues' a convenient excuse?

"Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift." Matt 5:23 - 24

Christians Together/Thistle Channel TV, 30/05/2011