E pluribus unum, the motto proposed for the Great Seal of the United States and emblazoned on U.S. currency, translates to “from the many, one.” Originally, this phrase commemorated the unification of diverse states into a single nation. Over time, these words have signified the melting pot heritage of a country where people from various backgrounds unite to build a shared home. Yet, as current events demonstrate, we remain far from this ideal. In this moment, racial reconciliation remains a central call for the church, leading us to ask: Is e pluribus unum truly possible, or is it perpetually problematic?
Within the church, we face similar questions. We pursue unity in diversity not because of political trends, but because of a divine mandate. Our Savior commissioned us to make disciples of all peoples (Matt. 28:19); the Holy Spirit descended upon a diverse church at Pentecost (Acts 2); and our worship will one day culminate around the throne with people from every nation (Rev. 7:9). Despite this vision, the church often strays from the ideal. Even denominations making notable progress, such as the Evangelical Covenant Church, continue to experience ethnic tensions and challenges.
What drives this persistent division? While the Enemy works to breed discord and limit kingdom impact, other psychological factors are also at play. In his book The Righteous Mind, moral psychologist Jonathan Haidt explores why well-intentioned people remain divided. His research suggests that overemphasizing differences can inadvertently make people more tribal. When difference is the primary focus, group cohesion often suffers. As homo sapiens, our natural inclination is to retreat toward our own tribes when faced with perceived outsiders. Haidt’s proposed solution remains controversial:
“Increase similarity, not diversity … make everyone feel like a family. So don’t call attention to racial and ethnic differences; make them less relevant by ramping up similarity and celebrating the group’s shared values and common identity.”
In my opinion, this radically colorblind approach unhelpfully swings the pendulum in the opposite direction. Like so many things in life, we must strive for both/and. God calls attention to our racial and ethnic differences, delighting in our diversity and calling us to pursue reconciliation wherever needed. The body of Christ is comprised of many members, and we need each other’s contributions to thrive. Yes, we must celebrate our diversity, yet at the very same time, and with the very same fervor, we must celebrate our unity. Cohesion comes most importantly by not losing sight of our commonality. Cohesion comes with our passionate celebration of being one family united with a shared Father, a shared Spirit and a glorious shared mission to accomplish in Christ.
We are called neither to overemphasize unity to the detriment of diversity, nor to overemphasize diversity to the detriment of unity. We are called to both/and. Diversity and unity. Many members, one body. From the many, one. With God’s help and empowerment, let us find fresh and creative ways to pursue e pluribus unum—in our churches, in our communities and in our nation.