How do we know that God desires unity among His people?

The desire for unity among God's people is clearly expressed throughout Scripture, notably in Ephesians 4, where Paul instructs believers to strive for 'the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.' Additionally, in John 17:21, Jesus prayed for His followers to be one as He and the Father are one, showcasing that unity among believers reflects the very nature of the Godhead. This theme is further reinforced by the New Testament teachings that emphasize the Church as the body of Christ, indicating that individual believers are interconnected and must work together to achieve a harmonious and unified witness in the world. Therefore, the call for unity is rooted in God's character and His plan for His people.