IN CHRIST, WE ARE ONE–a call to true Christian unity: “In Christ, we are one,” this powerful truth forms the foundation of our faith as Christians. No matter our tribe, caste, region, or background, we are united as brothers and sisters through the saving grace of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Our identity is no longer tied to our ethnic or social roots but to the cross of Christ that binds us together as one family in His body. Amen!
From the earliest days of the Church, believers lived this out in real and sacrificial ways. They shared everything: time, resources, prayers, and purpose. They helped translate the Scripture, spread the gospel across nations, and established schools and missions. They stood against injustice, taking part in the abolition of evil practices like slavery, headhunting, child sacrifice, and sati. Their lives testified that Christian faith is not passive, but active and transformative.
In India, especially Northeast India, many tribal communities embraced this faith in Jesus Christ. When they chose Christ over traditional animistic beliefs, many of them faced persecution. Some were cast out of their families and villages, and others became martyrs. But they held firm to their decision, singing: “I have decided to follow Jesus; no turning back, no turning back. Though none go with me, still I will follow; no turning back, no turning back. The cross before me, the world
behind me; no turning back, no turning back.” These believers lifted “the cup of Salvation” (Psalm 116:13) and honoured the Lord Jesus Christ, bringing blessings upon their families, communities, and even the nation.
However, as time passes, this spiritual legacy is being forgotten. Many of today’s Christians have grown cold in their love, becoming more interested in money, land, and status than in the well-being of their fellow believers. Scripture warns us in 1 Timothy 6:10: “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.”
What’s even more heartbreaking is that many Christians today choose to remain silent—or even side with oppressors—when their fellow believers are being persecuted. Across our regions, Christians suffer at the hands of non-Christians, yet neighbouring Christians, instead of helping, turn away or align with those causing harm. This should not be so. The reason is known to them.
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Galatians 6:10 urges us: “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” If we do not come together now as brothers and sisters supporting one another, standing up for truth, and showing compassion for those suffering among us, we may one day live with deep regret.
The devil is powerful and active in our country, sowing division, indifference, and fear. But we are stronger together in Christ. If we remain silent, if we forsake our spiritual family, we allow evil to take root. But if we rise in unity and love, God will work through us powerfully.
1 Corinthians 12:12-27 reminds us: “Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ… If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honoured, every part rejoices with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” This is not just a theological idea—it is a call to action. If one believer suffers, we all suffer. If one is honoured, we all rejoice. We cannot be indifferent and pretend that it doesn’t affect us and
remain silent about the suffering of our brethren.
So let us return to the faith of our fathers. Let us rekindle the fire of love, courage, and unity. Let us open our eyes, extend our hands, and act with compassion and boldness. Because in Christ, we are truly one.
(The author can be reached at letlal.haokip@gmail.com)
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