1 Corinthians 1:10-12
There is no doubt that the church is now badly divided—and it shows no evidence of reuniting—yet we are all commanded to speak the same things.
Paul goes on to use the words "mind" and "judgment." Mind is actually related to the power of observation—the way that we see things. He is saying we all need to see things in the same way. Judgment deals with the forming of an opinion.
The Corinthians obviously did not all see things the same way, and they therefore could not possibly come to the same opinion. So they did the natural thing and divided. They did not actually leave the congregation, but cliques formed within it, and the members were not at peace with one another.
Why did they not see things the same way? The context shows it depended upon whom each person decided he would use as his authority. Some used Paul, some Apollos, some Peter, and of course, some Christ. There is no evidence that those named as authorities were divided, but people made it seem so. No wonder they were divided! Today, sadly, many are doing the same thing.
John W. Ritenbaugh
Unity (Part 2): God's Pattern of Leadership
Speaking the same thing is a choice for the sake of unity, and for those who consider themselves converted, it is commanded, not optional; they must choose to follow Christ. The Corinthians had divided into factions, some declaring themselves followers of Paul, others of Apollos, others of Peter, while a few chose to follow Christ. Paul pleads with them to be unified, to think and judge alike, and to have one mind, judging as Christ would. Their contentions and partisanship were outward symptoms of inward rot, especially a lack of wisdom. The church of God has done something similar for some 30 years. Obeying a person, church, or group contrary to God's direct commands is idolatry, as that individual or group replaces God.