How can we apply the apostles' unity in Acts 1:26 to our church community? Verse in Focus “Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.” (Acts 1:26) Observing the Unity in Acts 1:26 • One heart: every apostle accepted the same process and result. • One mind: they sought the Lord together, not individual agendas (Acts 1:14). • One mission: replacing Judas was about keeping the witness of the resurrection complete (Acts 1:22). • One trust: they relied on God’s sovereignty in the outcome, not on personal preference (“the lot fell to Matthias”). Timeless Principles for Today’s Church • Shared submission to Christ’s authority (Colossians 1:18). • Community prayer before decisions (Philippians 4:6). • Dependence on Scripture for guidance (Psalm 119:105; Acts 1:20). • Humble acceptance of God-directed outcomes (Proverbs 16:33). • Unity expressed through action, not just sentiment (Ephesians 4:1-3). Practical Steps for Our Congregation 1. Schedule regular, all-church prayer gatherings before major decisions. 2. Open God’s Word first, opinions second—anchor every discussion in clear passages. 3. Agree on a Spirit-led, transparent decision process ahead of time. 4. Speak well of congregational decisions once made; guard against second-guessing. 5. Celebrate each member’s role, as the apostles welcomed Matthias (1 Corinthians 12:24-26). Guardrails That Protect Unity • Refuse gossip; address concerns directly and biblically (Matthew 18:15-17). • Cultivate Christ-like humility (Philippians 2:3-4). • Keep mission front and center: making disciples (Matthew 28:19-20). • Prioritize reconciliation quickly when offense arises (Ephesians 4:26-27). Fruit We Can Expect • “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!” (Psalm 133:1). • A credible witness to the world (John 17:21). • Holy Spirit empowerment for ministry (Acts 2:1-4). • Joy and thanksgiving multiplying among the saints (Acts 2:46-47). |
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