It is Finished, Don’t Divide
Symbolism
The Bricks: Represent each of us, joined together to create the Church through Christ.
The Outstretched Arm: Represents Jesus’ sacrifice as the “glue” that holds the Body together.
The Cracks: Symbolize the divisions within the Church.
The Background Text: Scriptural words exposing the underlying causes of division. While the topics we argue about change with the trends, the root causes remain the same.
The Red and Blue Paint: Represent the blood and water that poured from His side when He was pierced. Jesus is the source of Living Water that brings life, and His blood provides the forgiveness of sins. There is life and renewal when we truly repent and pursue peace.
The Story
This painting was commissioned by a local church for ministry. After a month of display in the sanctuary, this piece is now available for purchase. A portion of the proceeds will be donated back to the commissioning church to support their continued mission.
”Do not get involved in foolish discussions about spiritual pedigrees or in quarrels and fights about obedience to Jewish laws. These things are useless and a waste of time. If people are causing divisions among you, give a first and second warning. After that, have nothing more to do with them. For people like that have turned away from the truth, and their own sins condemn them.” — Titus 3:9–11 (NLT)
To fully comprehend these verses, we must recognize the seriousness of Paul’s warning. Do we realize that when we fight, divide, gossip, or promote dysfunction, we are actually fracturing the Body of Christ? Our selfish ambitions, egos, jealousy, and pride damage the very Body for which Jesus laid down His life.
The Church is the Body of Christ, with Jesus as the Head. While His physical body was broken and raised in resurrection glory, our divisions insult that ultimate sacrifice.
As I meditated on this passage, I saw that Paul was not promoting passive negligence, but active intervention. He considered those who spread discord as living contrary to the teachings of Jesus. Paul didn’t ask us to sweep “petty” arguments or gossip under the rug; he instructed action because these things hurt the Body.
We are called to actively pursue peace and work toward edifying those God has placed around us. Instead of endlessly finding fault, we are called to be ambassadors of reconciliation. The Church needs it, and the world needs it. On the cross, Jesus said, “It is finished.” May we act like it is finished and stop being divided over the trivial. Christ crucified and resurrected trumps everything.
