Day Seven: Unity
WHY UNITY?
The Bible highlights the diverse culture of Jesus’ time (think Jews, Gentiles, and Samaritans), but the call most often seen in the New Testament is that of unity.
What makes the church amazing is that we can come together with distinct differences (background, language, stage of life, beliefs, or opinions). Still, when we gather, we are unified in one thing –– our love for Jesus, our love for one another, and our purpose as the church.
As you read, you’ll see some of these differences occur, but you’ll also see that the message focuses not on differences but on Jesus. Our first core value at Rock City Church is that Jesus is our Message –– not only because we believe this is the greatest message we could ever tell, but because we want to point people to what unites us, not divides us.
DAY SEVEN DEVOTIONAL
Scripture: Ephesians 4:1-6
Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God. Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace. For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future. There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all, in all, and living through all.
Unity in Christ
Have you ever met someone and found out they were a Christian and instantly felt a connection with them? It’s common to hear stories of people who travel on mission trips who felt deeply connected with the Christians they worked with despite language barriers and cultural differences. It’s an amazing thing that, through the Holy Spirit, our hearts can be united with others who are in Christ. As a church, our prayer is we would feel it most deeply and most profoundly here first.
Hear From God
Pull out a journal or your notes app, and take a few minutes to reflect on these verses.
Highlight –– Write down part of the Scripture that stood out to you
Explain –– Answer the question, “What is the Bible teaching?” Ask the Holy Spirit for insight, and use the resources below to help.
Apply –– How can you apply this in real life?
Respond –– Use what you’ve learned to pray, write out a next step, or consider who you can share this with.
PRAY
Today, as you pray and fast, would you add these three things to your prayer time?
Thank God for the diverse family of believers He is bringing to Rock City
Help us to deeply show and share love to those different than us
Bless our efforts to grow together in love, making Your church a true reflection of Your kingdom
