How can you personally contribute to unity in your local church? Setting the Stage: Our Shared Reality “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called.” (Ephesians 4:4) Why This Matters - The verse is a fact statement, not a suggestion. - Unity is already God-given; our role is to preserve and demonstrate it (see Ephesians 4:3). - Because Scripture is literally true, these words describe your current spiritual address: one body, one Spirit, one hope. Seeing Yourself Inside ‘One Body’ - Recognize every believer as a God-placed member (1 Corinthians 12:18). - Treat differences (age, background, preferences) as essential parts, not irritations (1 Corinthians 12:21-25). - When tempted to complain, remember: hurting another part of the body ultimately hurts you. Walking in Step with ‘One Spirit’ - Depend on the Holy Spirit for words, reactions, and attitudes (Galatians 5:16). - Quench grumbling by letting the Spirit produce love, patience, and gentleness (Galatians 5:22-23). - Pray before meetings and conversations: “Spirit, speak through me.” Holding Fast to ‘One Hope’ - Keep eternity in view; the same Savior is coming for all of us (Titus 2:13). - Celebrate that future together—worship side by side, sing the same promises. - Hope fuels endurance when unity feels hard (Romans 15:4-6). Practical Ways to Strengthen Unity • Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry (James 1:19). • Forgive as the Lord forgave you; refuse to keep score (Colossians 3:13). • Speak truth in love—no gossip, no sarcasm, no half-truths (Ephesians 4:15, 25). • Serve where needs arise instead of guarding personal turf (Mark 10:45). • Affirm and encourage others publicly; correct privately (Proverbs 12:25; Matthew 18:15). • Share meals, testimonies, and resources—fellowship cements hearts (Acts 2:46-47). • Pray regularly for leaders and fellow members by name (1 Timothy 2:1-2). The Outcome God Promises “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!” (Psalm 133:1) Unity refreshes, attracts outsiders, and glorifies Christ (John 17:21). Guarding it is not optional—it is your joyful calling. |
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