Church Unity
Church unity in the Bible refers to the spiritual and communal oneness among believers in Christ, emphasizing harmony, cooperation, and mutual support within the body of Christ. This concept is rooted in the teachings of Jesus, who prayed for the unity of his followers in John 17:20-21, asking the Father that all believers may be one just as He and the Father are one. This unity is not merely organizational but is deeply relational, reflecting the unity of the Trinity and serving as a testimony to the world of God's love.The New Testament further elaborates on this theme in passages such as Ephesians 4:3-6, where Paul urges believers to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, highlighting the importance of humility, gentleness, and patience in achieving this unity. Additionally, 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 uses the metaphor of the body to illustrate how diverse members of the church work together in unity, each contributing to the whole while maintaining their unique roles. Therefore, biblical church unity transcends denominational lines, focusing on the shared faith in Christ and the call to live out that faith in community, reflecting the love and mission of God in the world.
Church Unity14
To Believers in the Doctrine of Entire and Continued Sanctification in This Life. No. 2
By Charles Finney01CO 13:4Charles Finney addresses the challenges faced by believers in the doctrine of entire and continued sanctification, emphasizing the importance of maintaining covenant commitments to the church despite potential excommunication. He urges members to reflect on their covenant obligations and to respond to church discipline with grace rather than bitterness. Finney encourages believers to exemplify their faith through their actions, asserting that true religion is rooted in love and benevolence towards all. He reassures those facing exclusion from their churches to remain steadfast in prayer and to trust in God's ultimate plan.
Are You Destroying the Church
By Francis Chan3.8K35:34NUM 20:122SA 24:152CH 7:1JHN 17:21ACT 5:11CO 3:161CO 11:27EPH 4:3TIT 3:10HEB 13:17Francis Chan emphasizes the critical importance of unity within the church, warning against the destructive nature of division and gossip. He reflects on biblical examples of God's severe response to those who treat sacred matters lightly, urging believers to recognize their role as God's temple and the seriousness of their words. Chan calls for repentance and a commitment to protect the unity of the church, highlighting that the world will believe in Christ through the church's oneness. He encourages the congregation to confront divisive behavior and to foster a culture of love and respect among believers.
A Letter on Separation
By John Nelson Darby0MAT 18:20ROM 16:171CO 11:192CO 6:14GAL 1:6EPH 4:31TH 5:21HEB 10:251JN 2:19REV 18:4John Nelson Darby emphasizes the critical nature of separation within the church, arguing that leaving an assembly that falsely claims to represent the church is necessary to maintain the truth of God's testimony. He warns against the dangers of remaining in a body that does not reflect the Spirit of God, as it can lead to a loss of blessing and spiritual integrity. Darby acknowledges the complexity of situations where evil persists within a church, stressing that true unity must not be a cover for wrongdoing. He concludes that while separation may be painful, it is sometimes essential for spiritual health and obedience to God. Ultimately, he encourages prayer for those who remain in such assemblies, hoping for their restoration through God's grace.
The Doctrine of the Wheels, in the Visions of Ezekiel, Opened and Explained.
By John Gill0ECC 1:4ISA 32:15EZK 10:13MAT 24:31ACT 20:24ROM 11:331CO 12:212TH 3:1HEB 1:14REV 4:2John Gill expounds on the significance of the wheels in Ezekiel's visions, interpreting them as representations of the churches of Christ under the Gospel dispensation. He emphasizes the dynamic relationship between the wheels (churches) and the cherubim (ministers), highlighting their interdependence and the necessity for harmony in their functions. Gill discusses various interpretations of the wheels, including their symbolism of the world and God's providence, and he stresses the importance of the Spirit's presence in both ministers and churches for effective ministry. He concludes with a call for prayer for the outpouring of the Spirit to ensure the vitality and unity of the church.
A Declaration of the Faith and Practice of the Church of Christ
By John Gill0MAT 28:19JHN 3:16ACT 24:15ROM 10:101CO 11:23EPH 1:4PHP 1:272TI 3:15HEB 9:281JN 5:7John Gill presents a comprehensive declaration of the faith and practice of the Church of Christ, emphasizing the authority of Scripture, the nature of God as a Trinity, and the doctrines of salvation through Christ. He outlines the church's beliefs regarding election, the fall of man, and the necessity of Christ's atoning sacrifice for redemption. Gill stresses the importance of baptism and the Lord's Supper as ordinances of the church, alongside the call for believers to live in accordance with the Gospel. The declaration serves as a commitment to uphold these truths and to foster unity and love within the church community.
Preserving the Church From Satan's Agents
By Zac Poonen0PSA 127:1PSA 133:1ZEP 3:11MAT 16:18MAT 18:17ROM 16:171CO 3:192CO 2:11JUD 1:4Zac Poonen emphasizes the church's role in resisting Satan's agents, highlighting that true churches, built by Jesus, overpower the gates of hell and must remain vigilant against spiritual death manifested through jealousy, strife, and immorality. He warns against allowing carnal believers to hold positions of influence, as they can disrupt the unity and purity of the church. Poonen illustrates how God sometimes allows infiltrators to expose and cleanse the church, ensuring that only humble and lowly individuals remain. He stresses the importance of addressing sin within the church with the goal of restoration, rather than exclusion, and encourages believers to pray for unity and purity. Ultimately, the church must be a place of refuge and life, where the Holy Spirit works to maintain its integrity against Satan's schemes.
A Church Church
By A.W. Tozer0JHN 15:5PHP 2:3A.W. Tozer emphasizes that the church should embody a healthy and fruitful vineyard that honors Christ, characterized by simplicity, love, and humility. He envisions a community where gossip is absent, and each member serves selflessly, fostering an atmosphere of childlike honesty and reverence. Tozer asserts that the presence of Christ should be palpable, with answered prayers and miracles being commonplace, reflecting the church's alignment with scriptural standards. He challenges the congregation to believe in this vision and to pursue a radical transformation that recaptures the ancient power of God. The call is for a reformation that breaks away from the prevailing religious mood to achieve this ideal church.
(Practical Discipleship) 4. Discipleship and Church Matters
By Zac Poonen0PRO 9:10MAT 18:18LUK 11:13JHN 13:351CO 3:111CO 12:8GAL 2:20HEB 3:13JAS 2:11PE 4:11Zac Poonen emphasizes that true discipleship cannot exist in isolation; it thrives in community within a local church where love and unity among believers are paramount. He highlights that the fear of the Lord is foundational for wisdom and church building, warning against the dangers of partiality and the need for spiritual gifts to edify the Body of Christ. Poonen illustrates the importance of self-judgment and the necessity of leaders who wield the 'sword' of God's Word to maintain purity and integrity in the church. He calls for a church that prioritizes fellowship over mere evangelism, ensuring that it is a safe haven for all believers. Ultimately, he urges disciples to seek spiritual gifts not for personal gain but to serve and bless others, reflecting the true nature of Christ's Body.
Professor Finney's Letter.--No. 26.
By Charles Finney01CO 13:4Charles Finney addresses the issue of church excommunication regarding the belief in entire and permanent sanctification, expressing concern over churches that would expel members for holding this doctrine. He emphasizes the importance of covenant commitments to God and the church, arguing that members should not withdraw from communion without a valid reason or without joining another church. Finney encourages believers to maintain a spirit of love and meekness, even in the face of opposition, and to let their lives exemplify the truth of their beliefs. He reassures those facing excommunication to remain steadfast in faith and to pray for their churches rather than harbor resentment.
Letters on Revivals--No. 26.
By Charles Finney0EPH 4:11Charles Finney emphasizes the vital role of evangelists in promoting revivals, highlighting their unique qualifications and the importance of their relationship with local pastors. He warns against the dangers of ambition, lack of meekness, and rashness in evangelists, which can lead to division and hinder the work of the church. Finney encourages evangelists to respect the pastoral relationship and to labor in fields where they are welcomed, rather than forcing their way into unprepared congregations. He asserts that a truly effective evangelist will find ample opportunities for ministry by following God's leading and maintaining harmony with local churches. Ultimately, he calls for a cooperative spirit between evangelists and pastors to foster genuine revival.
Are You a Busy-Body?
By Phil Beach Jr.7948:271PE 4:12Phil Beach Jr. addresses the issue of being a busybody within the church, emphasizing that many problems among believers stem from meddling in others' affairs rather than focusing on one's own life. He encourages self-reflection, urging attendees to consider if they exhibit busybody tendencies and to seek God's help in overcoming them. The sermon highlights the distinction between suffering for Christ and suffering due to being a busybody, warning against the traps of disorderliness, gossip, divisiveness, and offense that can arise from such behavior. Ultimately, Beach calls for a return to focusing on Jesus and supporting one another in love, rather than getting entangled in others' matters.
Notes (From the April 1888 Sword and Trowel)
By C.H. Spurgeon0MAT 5:14ROM 16:171CO 1:10EPH 4:3PHP 1:271TH 5:172TI 4:2JAS 5:162PE 2:1JUD 1:3C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the necessity of prayer among God's people as the Baptist Union prepares to discuss its Evangelical basis. He urges that the assembly focus on this critical issue rather than personal grievances, asserting that the Union should openly declare its beliefs. Spurgeon warns of the potential conflict should the majority reject an Evangelical foundation, yet expresses a strong resolve to pursue reform. He highlights the dangers of false teachings and the need for clarity and truth within the church. Ultimately, he encourages unity among believers who seek to uphold the truth amidst challenges.
John 13:1-17
By T. Austin-Sparks0JHN 13:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of meekness in John 13:1-17, illustrating how it is essential for the Church to fulfill its divine purpose. He explains that meekness not only destroys the ground of Satan's authority but also serves as a unifying factor within the Church, countering pride and disunity. The sermon highlights that true love is marked by meekness, as exemplified by Jesus washing the disciples' feet, which symbolizes the need for spiritual sensitivity and mutual support among believers. Ultimately, the act of washing one another's feet represents the Church's call to restore and help each other in humility and love.
The Headship of Christ
By William MacDonald0EPH 1:22William MacDonald emphasizes the headship of Christ over the church, asserting that believers must not accept any human leader as the head. He explains that true acknowledgment of Christ's headship involves allowing Him to guide the church's activities and decisions, which requires spiritual exercise and dependence on Him. MacDonald warns against the dangers of individuals who may claim to uphold Christ's headship while exercising dictatorial control within the church. He also discusses the importance of a local church's reception policy, stating that it should welcome all believers who are holy in life, not under discipline, and sound in doctrine, while maintaining the unity of the body of Christ.