Mending a Fractured Church

What does it really mean for the church to have unity?

When Jesus prayed for his followers to be one, he prayed that this unity would demonstrate the truth of his claims to an unbelieving world. Sadly, the world often sees a church that is divided. Some of our divisions are based on legitimate theological concerns, yet many others are simply matters of opinion. To the world, it's all another reason to doubt God.

What are the differences worth dividing over? How should we handle diversity?

Mending a Fractured Church, edited by Michael Bird and Brian Rosner, seeks to answer such questions, looking to the Bible for examples of how to behave when Christians differ. Speaking to pastors, churches, and seminary students, the contributors provide a guide to maintaining unity without compromise.

Michael F. Bird received his PhD from the University of Queensland in Australia. He is a lecturer in theology and postgraduate research at Ridley Melbourne College. He is the author of several volumes of Bible commentary and theological studies. Michael Bird is also co--moderator of the New Testament blog http://www.patheos.com/blogs/euangelion.

Brian Rosner received his PhD from the University of Cambridge. He has lectured at the University of Aberdeen and Moore Theological College. He serves as the principal of Ridley College in Victoria, Australia.