Psalm 133 begins by exalting the blessings that come from unity amongst brothers. This carries even more weight when you consider the life of the author, David, a man well acquainted with conflict and division. He faced warfare, political rifts, and even betrayals from his own children throughout his life.
At the end of the psalm, David describes unity as a refreshing dew But in verse two, he likens it to oil poured over Aaron’s head. What’s that all about?
To understand verse two, you have to go back to Exodus and Leviticus. At that time, Aaron served as the high priest of Israel. Before he could minister, he was required to be consecrated with oil, meaning he was set apart for a sacred purpose. David is saying unity is like this essential part of effective ministry to God.
So how do we get there? What does unity require?
AGREEMENT - (Philippians 2:2) Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.
(1 Corinthians 1:10) Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
PROXIMITY (Acts 2:44-45) And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
(Acts 4:32) And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.
TIME (Acts 2:46-47) And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
AUTHENTICITY (Ephesians 4:25) Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.
And last but not least, LOVE. Believers are told repeatedly throughout Scripture to love each other.
In John 17, Jesus prays for unity amongst believers. In verses 21 and 23 Jesus explains that our unity will be a sign to people that God sent his son Jesus. That means unity is critical for evangelism.
By the way, Exodus 30 explains that the anointing oil was precious and costly. In much the same way, unity comes with a cost. It requires participation. It may cost you some comfort, convenience, and preference. But unity is an essential component of a healthy, growing church.
God help us to be united so the gospel can go forth!
