Unity

The word unity means the same as being one; agreement; uniformity; oneness of sentiment, affection, of behavior.

And it’s a sad realization that even in the Christian community we don’t see unity demonstrated much.

But in John 17:23 Jesus says these words, “I am in them and You {God} are in Me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that You sent Me and that You love them as much as You love Me.”

The goal Jesus established here was for believers to be one unified - to maintain one heart and one mind - so God could be seen in amidst a fallen world. He was communicating to His followers that the more they disputed over insignificant things, the more they clung to attitudes of controversy, envy, and jealousy, the more they’d throw doubt upon Christianity. The closer He got to death, the more it seems Jesus was entirely fixated on the heart of His people and how much potential their evil tendencies had on misrepresenting and dishonoring He and His Father.

Believers are to live in unity despite all differences. The effect it will have on a broken world is compelling! It will convey to the world there is a good Father who loves us and pursues them. They’ll see Holy love demonstrated that produces a deeper level of joy and peace. They’ll see tangible proof that God is working all things out for our good. It will also convince them of the truth about Christ’s mission. When they’re able to see people living unselfishly, no longer governed by revenge and fueled by unrelenting passions, they’ll know it comes only by a higher power.

And to attain this Christ must occupy His proper position in the hearts of His people. His sacrificial love must be the center of our minds, the example of our hearts, and the inspiration of our actions.