Joseph Attoh 
The ministry of the gospel is anchored on love, unity, and shared purpose in advancing the Kingdom of God. Scripture consistently calls believers, especially those in leadership, to preserve this unity. As written in Ephesians 4:3–6, “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit… one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all.”
The work of ministry is fundamentally a work of love. Where love is absent, the true essence of ministry is compromised. Jesus Christ set the standard in John 13:34, declaring, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” This love, He said, would be the defining mark of His disciples. Similarly, Paul cautioned the Church in Galatia, “If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other” (Galatians 5:15).
Yet, concerns are often raised about unhealthy competition, envy, and division among some ministers of the gospel. In some instances, comparisons arise regarding numerical growth, preaching abilities, congregational size, infrastructure, material possessions, or denominational differences. Such attitudes risk shifting the focus of ministry from divine service to personal ambition.
The call to ministry is a call to self-denial and sacrifice. Jesus said, “If anyone wants to be my follower, he should deny himself and carry his cross daily.” This call leaves no room for jealousy, rivalry, slander, or division. Rather, it demands humility, accountability, and mutual support among leaders.
When ministers allow competition and envy to take root, the consequences are far-reaching. The flock becomes vulnerable and misdirected, spiritual sensitivity declines, and the unity of the Church is weakened. The enemy gains advantage where division exists, while clarity of purpose is lost. Ultimately, such attitudes bring dishonour to the body of Christ.
Particularly concerning is the tendency to speak negatively about fellow ministers, especially those who have fallen into error or are under discipline. Paul’s instruction in Galatians 6:1 provides a different posture: “Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently… Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Restoration, not condemnation, must define the response of spiritual leaders.
The Church remains one body with many members, each with distinct roles and functions. As stated in Romans 12:4–5, “In Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” This truth is further expanded in 1 Corinthians 12:12–28, which teaches that no part of the body is irrelevant. Each gift and calling is divinely placed for the edification of the whole Church.
Division denies this divine arrangement, but unity strengthens it. When the Church functions in harmony, every member suffers and rejoices together, reflecting the nature of Christ’s body.
The message is clear: ministry thrives in unity, not rivalry. No single minister can fulfil the entire mandate of the Church. It is only when leaders embrace cooperation, humility, and mutual honour that the full strength of the body is revealed.
When the Church stands together in love, it becomes an unstoppable force for kingdom advancement. Indeed, division weakens, but unity empowers. As ministers of the gospel, the call remains urgent: to guard unity, walk in love, and advance the Kingdom of God with one heart and one purpose.
Elder David Gyamfi (PIWC West Hills)
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