What does "by our Lord Jesus Christ" reveal about the source of unity? Setting the Scene in Romans 15 • Paul is wrapping up his letter, asking the believers in Rome to partner with him in prayer for his coming ministry challenges. • His appeal is “by our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 15:30)—a phrase that anchors Christian unity in Someone, not something. Unpacking the Phrase: “by our Lord Jesus Christ” • “By” points to the basis, motivation, and power behind the request. • “Our Lord” highlights shared allegiance; He is equally Master of every believer. • “Jesus” reminds us of His saving work that made us family. • “Christ” (Messiah) underscores fulfilled promises that bind Jew and Gentile together. Unity Grounded in His Person • One Savior—Acts 4:12. • One Head of the body—Colossians 1:18. • One Older Brother who calls us “brethren”—Hebrews 2:11. Because He is singular and unchanging, those joined to Him are inevitably drawn together. Unity Grounded in His Work • His cross removed every dividing wall (Ephesians 2:14-16). • His blood purchased a multi-ethnic bride (Revelation 5:9-10). • His resurrection life flows through all who believe (Romans 6:4-5). The more we rest in what He has finished, the less room there is for rivalry. Unity Maintained through His Lordship • One Lord, one faith, one baptism (Ephesians 4:3-6). • Submission to Christ’s authority keeps personal preferences from becoming fractures. • When He alone rules the church, unity is preserved; when other “lords” creep in, division follows. Unity Experienced in Shared Relationship • Jesus prayed “that all of them may be one… so that the world may believe” (John 17:21). • By the Spirit we are baptized into one body (1 Corinthians 12:12-13). • Our identity “in Christ” erases old boundary lines (Galatians 3:28). Unity isn’t organizational; it’s relational—rooted in shared life with Him. Supporting Scriptures • Romans 12:4-5—many members, one body, “in Christ.” • Philippians 2:1-2—“encouragement in Christ… make my joy complete by being of the same mind.” • Colossians 3:11-15—Christ is “all and in all,” therefore “put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity.” Practical Takeaways for Today’s Church • Preach Christ consistently; unity grows where He is central. • Measure every ministry plan by this question: Does it exalt our common Lord or elevate personal agendas? • When conflict arises, return to the cross—remember what He paid for our oneness. • Celebrate diversity as evidence of His reconciling power, not a threat to harmony. • Pray together “by our Lord Jesus Christ,” just as Paul asked; shared intercession nurtures shared affection. |
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