How can we encourage unity like Paul did in Philippians 4:2?

◄ How to foster unity like Paul in Philippians? ►

paul’s personal plea for peace

Philippians 4:2 — “I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to agree in the Lord.”

• Paul names both women, showing equal respect and responsibility.

• “I urge… I urge” doubles the call: each must respond.

• The goal is “agree in the Lord”—unity is grounded in shared submission to Christ, not personal preference.

why unity matters

• Jesus prayed “that they may all be one” (John 17:21), tying our witness to our oneness.

• Division grieves the Spirit and gives the enemy room (Ephesians 4:30-31; James 3:16).

• Harmony reflects God’s own nature of perfect fellowship—Father, Son, and Spirit (2 Corinthians 13:14).

heart attitudes to cultivate

• Humility: “in humility consider others more important than yourselves” (Philippians 2:3).

• Gentleness: “A servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome but must be gentle to everyone” (2 Timothy 2:24).

• Forgiveness: “Just as the Lord forgave you, so also you must forgive” (Colossians 3:13).

• Love: “Above all, put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity” (Colossians 3:14).

practical steps to foster harmony

1. Address issues promptly

– Matthew 5:23-24 urges reconciliation before worship.

2. Speak directly and lovingly

– Follow Matthew 18:15; avoid gossip.

3. Anchor every conversation in the Lord

– Ask, “What will honor Christ most?” as Paul did.

4. Invite trusted help when needed

– Philippians 4:3 shows Paul involving a “true companion.”

5. Pray together

– Shared prayer realigns hearts to God’s purposes (Acts 1:14).

other scriptures reinforcing the call

• Psalm 133:1 — “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!”

• Romans 12:16 — “Live in harmony with one another.”

• 1 Corinthians 1:10 — “That there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and conviction.”

• Ephesians 4:3 — “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

living the lesson

• Identify any strained relationships; decide to “agree in the Lord.”

• Take the first step—humble contact, honest apology, or gracious listening.

• Celebrate unity as a testimony of Christ’s power to reconcile and transform.