UNITY

Acts 4: 23-37, 1 Corinthians 1:10, Ephesians 4:3

Near the end of this chapter, it talks a lot about unity. Unity in what the early church believes, spoke about, and how they lived towards one another. When people hear the word “unity” they can either be encouraged or hesitant. Unity with a Gospel lens is supposed to be safe and a clear mark of the Church (1 Corinthians 1:10, Ephesians 4:3).. Hesitancy towards unity may come from previous experiences that someone has had in the church or with other christians. Some may feel rejected or judged or betrayed and so the idea of unity is hard to wrap any trust around. 

Unity isn’t always easy, but like we read today, through the power of the Holy Spirit and the uniting mission of Christ we can begin to get an idea of what it looks like to live this out. . A great example is the  sacrifice and generosity we see at the end of this chapter. Both of those things sound easy when we initiate it,, but the eagerness to live generously toward the early church is what makes them radical. Unity is not just about how we act towards one another, but how we support others. The early church supported and helped the apostles on their journey. They did not reject them or push them out but instead welcomed them because they knew that all believers are a part of the Church. 

By believing we are sent, we also believe that we live sent towards everyone! We show Christ to all even if they are a part of the church or not. By living in Gospel unity we can show the sacrificial and generous love of Jesus, and it can transform communities. 

How can you take the step to build unity within your own community? Where do you see community falling short and how can you pray towards growth for your church?