A Call for Unity–But Under Whose Authority? by Jose Jimenez

A Call for Unity–But Under Whose Authority?

“Now I bessech you, brethren… that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions amon you.” – 1 Corinthians 1:10

Recent events in the Roman Catholic Church have once again highlighted the importance Rome places on visible unity under papal authority. According to CNN, the Vatican announced that priests and members of the Society of Saint Pius X who ordained four bishops “in defiance of Pope Leo XIV’s wishes” are “in schism and excommunicated.” The article further explains that the Society of Saint Pius X “went ahead with the ordinations… without papal approval and despite appeals from Leo to reverse the decision.” https://l1nq.com/ikbz2ef

While this development is primarily an internal Catholic matter, Bible students should carefully observe the principles involved. Scripture warns that a time is coming when the world will seek religious unity, but not necessarily unity based upon the pure Word of God.

The apostle Paul wrote:

“Now I bessech you, brethren… that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you.” (1 Corinthians 1:10)

Biblical unity, however, is founded upon truth, not merely organizational authority.

Jesus prayed:

“Sanctify the, through thy truth: thy word is truth.” (John 17:17)

Christ also prayed:

“That they all may be one.” (John 17:21)

The Holy Spirit produces the unity for which Jesus prayed as believers submit to God’s Word–not through compromise or the surrender of biblical convictions.

CNN also notes that Pope Leo warned beforehand that these ordinations would be a “schismatic” act, and following the ceremony the Vatican’s decree declared that those who “formally adhere” to the Society are likewise in schism and excommunicated. These statements demonstrate the importance the Vatican places on visible unity under papal authority. (https://l1nq.com/ikbz2ef)

Biblical prophecy foretells that in the closing scenes of earth’s history, religious powers will seek worldwide unity.

“And all the world wondered after the beast.” (Revelation 13:3)

“These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast.” (Revelation 17:13)

As Seventh-day Adventists, we understand these prophecies to describe a future confederation of religious and civil powers that will exalt human authority above the commandments of God. Therefore, every movement emphasizing unity should be examined in the light of Scripture.

Ellen G. White wrote:

“The last great delusion is soon to open before us. Antichrist is to perform his marvelous works in our sight. So closely will the counterfeit resemble the true that it will be impossible to distinguish between them excepy by the Holy Scriptures.” – The Great Controvery, p. 593

She also warned:

“We are not to unity with secret societies or with those who do not keep the commandments of God.” – Selected Messages, Book 2, p.367

God’s final call is not merely to belong to a religious organization, but to stand faithfully upon His Word.

“Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins.” (Revelation 18:4)

This call is not motivated by hostility toward sincere believers in other churches. God’s people are found in many communions, and Christ lovingly calls them to follow Him fully. The issue in the last days will not simply be unity, but whether that unity is built upon the authority of God’s Word or the authority of human tradition.

As prophetic signs continue to unfold, may we remain anchored in Scripture, faithful to Jesus Christ, obedient to His commandments, and guided by the Holy Spirit.

“To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” – Isaiah 8:20

News Source

Christopher Lamb, CNN. Breakaway Catholic Group Excommunicated After Defying Warnings from Pope Leo. July 2, 2026.