The concept of "One Is" in the Bible often refers to the unity and singularity of God, as well as the oneness of believers in Christ. This theme is woven throughout Scripture, emphasizing both the monotheistic nature of God and the unity that should exist among His followers.

Unity of God

The Bible consistently affirms the oneness of God, a foundational tenet of the Judeo-Christian faith. In Deuteronomy 6:4, known as the Shema, it is declared, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one." This verse underscores the monotheistic belief that there is only one God, who is sovereign and unique. The prophet Isaiah echoes this truth, stating, "I am the LORD, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God" (Isaiah 45:5).

In the New Testament, the oneness of God is further affirmed. The Apostle Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 8:4, "We know that an idol is nothing at all in the world and that there is no God but one." This reinforces the understanding that God alone is the Creator and Sustainer of all things, and there is no other deity beside Him.

Unity in Christ

The concept of "One Is" also extends to the unity of believers in Christ. Jesus prayed for this unity among His followers in John 17:21, saying, "that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me." This prayer highlights the desired oneness among Christians, reflecting the unity within the Trinity.

The Apostle Paul frequently addresses the unity of the church in his epistles. In Ephesians 4:4-6, he writes, "There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." This passage emphasizes the spiritual unity that believers share, rooted in their common faith and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.

Practical Implications

The oneness of God and the unity of believers have practical implications for Christian living. Believers are called to reflect the unity of God in their relationships with one another, striving for harmony and peace within the body of Christ. In Colossians 3:14, Paul exhorts, "And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."

Furthermore, the unity of believers serves as a testimony to the world of God's love and the truth of the Gospel. As Jesus stated in John 13:35, "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." The visible unity and love among Christians are powerful witnesses to the transformative power of the Gospel.

In summary, the concept of "One Is" in the Bible highlights the singularity of God and the unity that should characterize the community of believers. This theme calls Christians to live in harmony with one another, reflecting the oneness of God in their lives and relationships.