United We Stand: The Urgent Need for Unity in Church and Family
Sunday dinners for many families used to be a joyous affair. They would gather, surrounded by the aroma of a favorite meal cooking, laughter echoing around the table, and lively conversations that flowed freely. But for many lately, those dinners have felt strained. Political tensions simmer just beneath the surface, and disagreements about everything from social justice issues to the latest celebrity gossip can quickly erupt into heated arguments. Some families and churches split during the 2016 and 2020 elections. With the 2024 political rematch looming, many are feeling that tension again.
But amidst this chaos, a voice from the past speaks with enduring relevance. Jesus, in his final prayer, passionately pleaded for unity among his followers. In John 17, he paints a vision of a united body, reflecting the love and unity of the Trinity. This vision challenges us to examine our own hearts and pursue a unity that transcends our differences and draws the world to Christ.
Five Questions to Guide Our Pursuit of Unity
Who is Jesus Praying For? Jesus prays for all believers, those who believe in him through the message of the apostles. This message, rooted in the core doctrines of the Christian faith, provides a solid foundation for unity.
What Does Jesus Pray For? Jesus prays for unity among his followers, a unity that reflects the shared glory and indwelling Spirit of God.
What is Unity? Unity is not organizational uniformity or forced conformity. It's a unity that embraces diversity while being rooted in the truth, love, grace, and mutual submission found in the Trinity.
What Happens If the Church Is United? A united church becomes a powerful witness to the world, drawing people to Christ through the tangible display of love and unity.
How Do We Get Unity? Unity begins with repentance—turning away from self-righteousness and embracing the humility of Christ. It requires recognizing the infinite value of every individual and pursuing sacrificial love towards one another.
The Gospel: The Key to Unity
The Gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ, is the key that unlocks the door to unity. It reminds us that we are all sinners in need of grace, and that our identity is found not in our differences but in our shared relationship with Christ. This humbling truth breaks down the walls of pride and self-righteousness, paving the way for genuine unity.
Unity in Practice: Sharing Possessions, Problems, and Lives
A united church is marked by a radical openness and generosity. In Acts 2:42-47 we see believers sharing their possessions freely, recognizing that their security rests not in material wealth but in the love of God. We are called to that generosity today; not just financially, but emotionally and relationally. We are called to share problems honestly, seeking support and encouragement from one another. To share our lives sacrificially, bearing each other's burdens and pursuing a love that mirrors the selflessness of Christ.
The Cost of Disunity
Disunity in the church not only hinders our witness to the world but also grieves the heart of God. It creates a stumbling block for unbelievers who are seeking a genuine faith. And it robs us of the joy and strength that comes from being united in Christ.
A Call to Unity
In the face of a divided world, let us heed the call of Jesus and pursue a unity that reflects his love and grace. Let us lay down our differences, embrace our shared identity in Christ, and strive to love one another as he has loved us. This is not a call to mere tolerance but to a radical, transformative unity that will not only strengthen the church but also draw the world to Christ.
As Francis Chan reminds us, "The world currently hates us not because we resemble Jesus but because we don't." Let us change that narrative by becoming a united body, a beacon of love and hope in a fractured world.
With You;
Pastor Tim
