Basic HTML Version
184
S.D.A. Bible Commentary Vol. 5
The connection of the branches with one another and with the
Vine constitutes them a unity, but this does not mean uniformity in
everything. Unity in diversity is a principle that pervades the whole
creation. While there is an individuality and variety in nature, there
is a oneness in their diversity; for all things receive their usefulness
and beauty from the same Source. The great Master Artist writes His
name on all His created works, from the loftiest cedar of Lebanon
to the hyssop upon the wall. They all declare His handiwork, from
the lofty mountain and the grand ocean to the tiniest shell upon the
seashore.
The branches of the vine cannot blend into each other; they are
individually separate; yet every branch must be in fellowship with
every other if they are united in the same parent stock. They all
draw nourishment from the same source; they drink in the same
life-giving properties. So each branch of the True Vine is separate
and distinct, yet all are bound together in the parent stock. There
can be no division. They are all linked together by His will to bear
fruit wherever they can find place and opportunity. But in order to
do this, the worker must hide self. He must not give expression to
his own mind and will. He is to express the mind and will of Christ.
The human family are dependent upon God for life and breath and
sustenance. God has designed the web, and all are individual threads
to compose the pattern. The Creator is one, and He reveals Himself
as the great Reservoir of all that is essential for each separate life.
Christian unity consists in the branches being in the same parent
stock, the vitalizing power of the center supporting the grafts that
have united to the Vine. In thoughts and desires, in words and
actions, there must be an identity with Christ, a constant partaking
of His spiritual life. Faith must increase by exercise. All who live
near to God will have a realization of what Jesus is to them and they
to Jesus. As communion with God is making its impress upon the
soul, and shining out in the countenance as an illuminating light,
the steadfast principles of Christ’s holy character will be reflected in
humanity (
The Review and Herald, November 9, 1897
).
1-8
. See
EGW comment on John 13:2
.
4. Detachment as Well as Attachment
—A union with Christ
by living faith is enduring; every other union must perish. Christ first
chose us, paying an infinite price for our redemption; and the true