Why The Power of Unity Matters

Have you ever wondered why unity is so crucial to the health and impact of the church? When Jesus prayed for His followers just before His crucifixion, His final wish wasn’t for us to have perfect doctrine or flawless behavior. Instead, He prayed for us to understand the power of unity, knowing that our unity as believers would reveal God’s love to the world. In John 17:21-23.

“that they may all be one… that the world may know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.” – Jesus

Unity in the church is more than a pleasant idea—it’s a command from Jesus, a calling to reflect God’s love and the power of unity to the world. Imagine a church so united in purpose and love that people are drawn to it. What a beacon of hope in a divided world! This vision of unity Jesus shared is one of love, patience, humility, and forgiveness. As followers of Christ, we’re called to live this out, building a community that radiates His love.

Jesus’ Prayer for Unity: A Divine Command

In John 17, Jesus prays for all believers, asking that they “may be one,” just as He and the Father are one. This isn’t just a prayer for harmony but a divine command that reflects the very nature of God. Jesus’ words are a reminder that unity is critical to fulfilling our purpose as the church. Our unity is a testimony to the world, a witness to the reality of God’s love and the transformative power of the Gospel.

Disunity, on the other hand, hinders the church’s effectiveness. When we allow division and conflict to prevail, we send a message that contradicts the Gospel’s power to reconcile and restore. Instead of drawing people to God, disunity repels them. Our mission is to cultivate a church community that is so loving and unified that it naturally attracts others. A place where people feel accepted and valued despite their differences.

Steps to Achieving Unity in the Church

1. Self-Reflection Over Criticism – Before we can effectively promote unity, we must first look inward. In Matthew 7:3-5, Jesus cautions us against pointing out others’ faults while ignoring our own. Instead of thinking, “If only so-and-so would do this,” consider, “What can I personally do to foster unity?”
   This approach shifts our perspective, helping us recognize that unity begins with individual choices. When we focus on improving ourselves and cultivating a Christlike attitude, we contribute to a culture of mutual respect and understanding. Instead of expecting others to change, we model the change we want to see.
   
2. The Call to Love as Jesus Loved Us– In John 13:34-35, Jesus says, “Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
   Jesus’ command here isn’t optional; it’s essential for every follower of Christ. Our love for each other is the defining trait that should set us apart.This love goes beyond superficial kindness. It’s a commitment to truly care for and support one another, to listen and empathize, to forgive, and to put others’ needs before our own. A community built on this kind of love is one that people will want to be part of—a community that reflects the heart of Jesus.
   
3. Practicing Humility and Gentleness – The Apostle Paul provides practical advice for building unity in Ephesians 4:1-3, where he encourages believers to be humble, gentle, and patient. Humility is foundational to unity, as it allows us to let go of pride and self-interest, focusing instead on others’ needs and well-being.
   In Philippians 2:3-4, Paul emphasizes, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others.” When we practice humility and gentleness, we create an environment where people feel respected and valued.
   
4. Patience and Forgiveness in Church Community – Building unity requires patience and a commitment to forgiveness. Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 13:4 that love is patient and kind, willing to endure inconveniences and imperfections. In Colossians 3:13, he further instructs us to “bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone.”
   In every church community, there will be misunderstandings, conflicts, and even moments of hurt. However, when we choose to forgive, we dismantle the walls of resentment that divide us. True unity is not about ignoring differences or pretending there are no conflicts but about addressing them with love, compassion, and a willingness to reconcile.
   
5. Supporting One Another Actively – Unity also involves actively supporting each other, especially in times of need. Galatians 6:2 encourages us to “bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Supporting one another means being there for each other emotionally, spiritually, and even physically. It’s about showing up, praying together, and offering practical help.
   A great example is found in the story of Moses in Exodus 17, where Aaron and Hur held up Moses’ hands during a battle, enabling Israel to prevail. This image of mutual support is a powerful reminder that we can accomplish more together than alone. When we help carry each other’s burdens, we strengthen the unity of our community.
   
6. Honoring and Supporting Church Leaders. – Church leaders play a critical role in fostering unity, but they also need encouragement and support from the congregation. Hebrews 13:17 instructs us to honor and respect those who lead us spiritually, recognizing their dedication to helping the church.
   Supporting leaders can mean praying for them, offering encouragement, and being open to their guidance. A healthy relationship between leaders and the congregation is a foundation for a united, thriving church.
   
7. Making Every Effort to Keep the Unity. – Paul emphasizes in Ephesians 4:3 the importance of making “every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Unity requires intentionality. It requires us to choose love over discord, to prioritize understanding over judgment, and to work toward harmony rather than uniformity.
   Unity doesn’t mean we all have to be the same or agree on everything. It means that we are committed to working together despite our differences, recognizing that each of us has a unique role in the body of Christ.
   

Unity as a Powerful Witness to the World

The power of unity in the church is that it serves as a witness to the world. When we love each other deeply, as Jesus loved us, we showcase the reality of God’s transformative love. This unity isn’t passive; it’s active and visible. It’s a community where each person plays a part in showing others what it means to be loved by God.

As a church, let’s strive to be the community Jesus envisioned, a family united in love, patience, humility, and forgiveness. This unity, rooted in Christ, will be the light that draws others to the Gospel.

Books I enjoyed on this topic:

Until Unity – Francis Chan
(Amazon Affiliate Link)

Take the Challenge: What Will You Do to Build Unity This Week?

Unity starts with each of us. Consider reaching out to someone in your church you haven’t connected with in a while. Offer forgiveness where there’s been hurt. Take time to pray for someone in need, support your leaders, or encourage a fellow believer. Small actions like these can have a profound impact on the unity of your church.

A Prayer for Church Unity

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of community. Help us to be humble, gentle, and patient with one another, bearing each other’s burdens in love. May our unity reflect Your love to the world, drawing others to You. Guide us in building a church that honors You and supports each other. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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By prioritizing unity, we create a powerful testimony, fulfilling Jesus’ vision of a church that draws people through love.