Striving for Unity

The Unity of the Lord’s Church

Striving for Unity

Ephesians 4:3-6 (ESV)

"Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."

Starting Prayer

Dear Lord, as I come before You today, I seek Your wisdom and insight into the theme of unity within Your church. Guide my thoughts and reflections as I meditate on Your Word. Help me to understand the importance of unity among believers. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Background

The book of Ephesians, written by the apostle Paul, emphasises the unity of believers in Christ. In Ephesians 4, Paul addresses the Ephesian church, urging them to maintain unity through the power of the Holy Spirit. The selected verses highlight the essential elements of unity: one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father. Paul emphasises that despite the diversity among believers, there is unity in the core aspects of the Christian faith, which unites them as one body.

Be Encouraged

Unity among believers is not merely a passive state but requires intentional effort and commitment. Just as Paul exhorts the Ephesians to "endeavour to keep the unity of the Spirit," we are called to actively pursue unity in our relationships within the body of Christ. This unity is grounded in the commonality of our faith and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. When we prioritise unity, we reflect the character of God and His desire for His people to dwell together in harmony.

Moreover, the unity of believers serves as a powerful testimony to the world of God's redemptive work in Christ. As we strive for unity, we demonstrate the transformative power of the gospel, drawing others to faith in Jesus Christ. Our unity is a visible expression of the love and grace of God, inviting others to experience the same reconciliation and peace found in Christ.

Additional Verses

- Romans 12:18 (ESV) - "If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all."

- 1 Corinthians 1:10 (ESV) - "I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment."

Invitation

I invite you to join me in striving for unity within the body of Christ. Let us commit to fostering relationships marked by love, humility, and forgiveness, reflecting the unity found in our faith in Christ. May our unity be a beacon of hope to a divided world, pointing others to the transformative power of the gospel.

Concluding Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the unity we have in Christ. Help us to diligently pursue unity in our relationships with fellow believers, honouring You as the one God and Father of all. May our unity be a testimony to Your love and draw others to faith in Jesus Christ. In Jesus' name, Amen.

May the Lord bless your day.

Theodore J. Quist

Evangelist

Church of Christ

Abokobi - Accra

Ghana

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