A “fifth column” is an enemy group embedded within a nation to bring that nation down. They spy, sabotage, demoralize and sow discord. Jesus warns that His kingdom has such enemies working from within (Matthew 13:24-30; 47-50). It is neither our job nor within our ability to weed them all out (Matthew 13:28-29). What does this mean for maintaining unity? It takes firm resolve to walk with “one Lord” in His narrow road, resisting even severe internal pressures. It calls for extraordinary patience, forbearance and wisdom. In the church, who are the deliberate “false brothers” and spies of Galatians 2:4? Who are merely misled, deceived and manipulated by Satan, but still willing to learn? We cannot always tell (1 Timothy 5:24; Proverbs 20:5). But we always can nurture healthy attitudes. Guided by passages like Galatians 6 and 2 Timothy 2, we can avoid being contentious and quarrelsome. We can patiently endure evil. We can continue to teach with kindness and gentleness, encouraging repentance.
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