How can we apply the principle of unity in our daily church interactions? The Call to Unity from Matthew 12:25 “Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand.” (Matthew 12:25) Jesus states a timeless, literal truth: division destroys. By contrast, unity holds a family, congregation, or nation together. Recognizing the Root of Division • Division is not merely disagreement; it is a heart posture that resists Christ’s rule. • Satan thrives where strife reigns (James 3:14-16). • Proverbs 6:16-19 lists sowing discord among brothers as something the LORD hates. Practical Steps to Foster Unity in the Church • Intentionally view every fellow believer as bought by the same blood (Acts 20:28). • Celebrate shared identity in Christ before discussing secondary opinions (Romans 14:17-19). Guarding Our Speech • “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up…” (Ephesians 4:29). • Before speaking, ask: Will these words strengthen or fracture Christ’s body? Serving One Another in Love • “Through love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:13) • Volunteer where help is needed, not merely where it is comfortable. • Small acts—setting up chairs, bringing meals—knit hearts together. Pursuing Shared Mission • A common goal eliminates rivalries. “Go therefore and make disciples…” (Matthew 28:19). • Pray, plan, and labor side-by-side for evangelism, mercy ministries, and global missions. Dealing with Conflict Biblically • Go privately first (Matthew 18:15). • If unresolved, involve one or two mature believers (Matthew 18:16). • Always aim for restoration, never revenge (Galatians 6:1). The Power of Corporate Worship • Singing truth together resets hearts toward unity (Colossians 3:16). • Partaking of the Lord’s Supper proclaims “because there is one bread, we who are many are one body” (1 Corinthians 10:17). Bearing with One Another in Weakness • “Bear with one another and forgive any complaint…” (Colossians 3:13). • Extend the same patience you expect from others. Celebrating Diversity within Unity • Gifts differ but come from one Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:4-6). • Diversity used for mutual edification displays God’s multifaceted wisdom (Ephesians 3:10). The Ultimate Example: The Trinity • Father, Son, and Spirit are distinct yet perfectly one (John 17:21). • Our unity mirrors His nature and validates our testimony to the world (John 13:35). Closing Takeaways • Unity is obedience to Christ’s literal command, not a sentimental option. • Nurture it daily through humble speech, sacrificial service, biblical conflict resolution, and shared mission. • “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3) |
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