What steps can we take to encourage church unity from Colossians 4:15? Framing the Context Colossians 4:15: “Greet the brothers in Laodicea, as well as Nympha and the church that meets at her house.” Paul closes his letter with a warm directive that highlights simple but powerful practices that knit believers together. Within this brief verse we see habits that foster real unity. Key Observations from Colossians 4:15 • “Greet the brothers” – An intentional, loving acknowledgment of other believers. • “in Laodicea” – Unity extends beyond one local assembly; neighboring congregations matter. • “Nympha and the church that meets at her house” – Personal hospitality and inclusive recognition of leaders and hosts sustain shared fellowship. Practical Steps Toward Unity 1. Cultivate intentional greetings • Make the first move—initiate contact with fellow members every time you gather. • Use names; personal acknowledgment affirms value (Romans 16:16). 2. Acknowledge neighboring congregations • Pray for sister churches; mention them publicly. • Share resources and join in community outreach projects (Philippians 1:5). 3. Elevate hospitality • Open homes for small groups, meals, and prayer (Acts 2:46). • Encourage diverse members, including women like Nympha, to host and lead gatherings (1 Corinthians 16:19). 4. Honor every servant • Publicly recognize unseen volunteers—greeters, cleaners, tech workers (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). • Celebrate varied gifts without partiality (1 Corinthians 12:18-26). 5. Keep communication flowing • Share testimonies and updates between congregations; letters, emails, short videos continue Paul’s example. • Invite guest speakers from partner churches to foster mutual appreciation (2 Corinthians 8:23-24). 6. Pray for unified witness • Regularly intercede for harmony, drawing on Jesus’ prayer in John 17:21. • Link prayer meetings between congregations when possible. Supporting Passages • John 17:20-23 – Jesus prays “that they may all be one.” • Ephesians 4:3 – “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” • Hebrews 13:1-2 – “Let brotherly love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers.” • 1 Peter 4:9 – “Show hospitality to one another without complaining.” • Acts 2:46 – Early believers broke bread in homes “with gladness and sincere hearts.” Putting It into Practice • This Sunday, greet someone you normally overlook; learn their story. • Schedule a joint worship night with a nearby congregation within the next quarter. • Volunteer your home for a Bible study, coffee hour, or youth gathering. • Send a brief encouragement note to a church volunteer or a neighboring pastor this week. • Review the above passages during personal devotions, asking the Spirit to reveal one concrete action to strengthen unity through you today. |
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