Unity in the Body of Christ
Unity in the Body of Christ38
Lord, Is My Heart Tender? Part Two
By A.B. Simpson0GEN 3:12MAT 18:19LUK 23:43JHN 17:21JAS 5:16A.B. Simpson emphasizes the necessity of a tender heart in fostering unity among believers, recounting a situation where two co-workers were at odds despite one being technically right. He highlights that truth, when not delivered with love and grace, can lead to division and hinder God's work. Simpson points out that true oneness, as prayed for by Jesus, requires individuals to take responsibility for their own sins rather than blame others. He illustrates this with the example of the prodigal son and the thief on the cross, both of whom acknowledged their failures. Ultimately, maintaining a tender heart is essential for achieving the unity that Jesus desires among His followers.
Functional Union
By T. Austin-Sparks0ROM 12:4T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the concept of 'Functional Union' within the Body of Christ, illustrating how each member plays a vital role in expressing the personality of Christ. He explains that the Church exists not for self-expression but to manifest Christ's presence and personality, highlighting the importance of interrelatedness, interdependence, and mutual support among believers. Sparks warns against both the exaggeration and neglect of the Body, urging Christians to recognize their responsibility in functioning as part of this living organism. He concludes that Christ's headship is essential for the Body to operate effectively, and that spiritual growth is contingent upon maintaining a strong connection with one another and with Christ. The sermon calls for believers to actively engage in their roles within the Body to fully express Christ's life and purpose.
The Gift of Helps
By Chuck Smith01CO 12:12Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of the gift of helps within the body of Christ, illustrating how every member has a unique role that contributes to the overall function of the church. He draws parallels between the human body and the church, highlighting that even seemingly insignificant parts are essential and deserving of honor. Smith encourages believers to recognize their calling to serve, regardless of the visibility of their contributions, and to do so joyfully and selflessly. He shares examples of individuals who embody the gift of helps, demonstrating that true service is done for the Lord and not for recognition. Ultimately, he calls the congregation to discover their place in the body and to serve one another with love and care.
Be Diligent to Preserve the Unity of the Spirit in the Bond of Peace
By Zac Poonen0PRO 30:27ECC 4:9MAT 16:18JHN 17:20EPH 4:3COL 2:15HEB 2:14Zac Poonen emphasizes the vital importance of unity within the Body of Christ, illustrating that together, believers can achieve far more than they can alone. He draws on biblical examples, such as Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, to highlight the strength found in fellowship and warns against the counterfeit unity that compromises God's truth. Poonen stresses that true unity is forged by the Holy Spirit and is essential for overcoming the attacks of Satan, who seeks to sow discord among believers. He reminds the church that victory over spiritual adversaries is only possible when they stand united under Christ's headship. The sermon calls for vigilance against division and encourages believers to guard their relationships within the Body of Christ.
The Body of Christ: Its Heavenly Aspect
By T. Austin-Sparks0EPH 1:22T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the corporate nature of the Church as the Body of Christ, drawing from the letter to the Ephesians. He highlights that despite earthly divisions and schisms, the Church remains one and united in Christ, as it is a heavenly reality unaffected by human differences. Sparks encourages believers to recognize their heavenly position in Christ to fully appreciate this unity and to overcome the divisions that may arise in their relationships. He asserts that the essence of the Body of Christ is a settled fact, and our task is to apprehend this truth rather than create it. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a shift in perspective from earthly to heavenly to understand the true nature of the Church.
Protected on God's Highway
By Erlo Stegen0PSA 51:10PRO 16:18ISA 35:8MAT 11:11GAL 6:1EPH 6:162TI 1:5HEB 10:24JAS 4:71PE 5:8Erlo Stegen emphasizes the importance of staying on the 'highway of holiness' as described in Isaiah 35, where even the simple-minded will not go astray if they remain on this path. He highlights the dangers of straying from this way, which exposes individuals to the attacks of the devil, and stresses the necessity of unity among believers to withstand spiritual attacks. Stegen reflects on the example of John the Baptist, who, despite not performing miracles, prepared the way for Jesus through his faithfulness. He warns against the dangers of pride and sin, urging listeners to remain humble and teachable, and to return to Jesus for cleansing if they have strayed. The sermon calls for a collective faith, as seen in the faith of Timothy's family, emphasizing that isolation can lead to harm.
The Life That Is New
By Theodore Epp0COL 3:10Theodore Epp emphasizes the transformative power of accepting Christ, as outlined in Colossians 3:5-11. He explains that believers possess a divine nature, a new unity that transcends all societal divisions, and a new relationship where Christ is central in their lives. Epp encourages Christians to live out their new identity by saying yes to Christ and no to sin, fostering unity among all believers regardless of background. He challenges listeners to reflect on whether Christ truly governs every aspect of their lives.
Running Life's Race
By A.W. Tozer0HEB 12:1A.W. Tozer emphasizes the Christian life as a race that requires patience and endurance, urging believers to focus on their personal journey rather than competing with one another. He highlights the importance of understanding that while the race may be challenging, there is a victor's reward for those who persevere. Tozer warns against the dangers of losing sight of Jesus and encourages believers to support one another rather than engage in competition. The sermon serves as a reminder that the Christian race is a collective journey of faith, not a rivalry among churches.
Among the Workers
By Watchman Nee0ACT 13:1ACT 20:341CO 12:282CO 8:6GAL 2:7EPH 4:11PHP 2:251TH 3:12TI 4:9TIT 1:5Watchman Nee emphasizes the importance of local churches and the spiritual unity among workers in the body of Christ. He explains that while churches in Scripture are independent and local, workers are called to associate and collaborate under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, forming groups without official organization. Nee highlights that the work of God should focus on establishing local churches rather than creating denominational branches, as true cooperation among workers is rooted in a shared commitment to the Body of Christ. He warns against the dangers of both individualism and man-made organizations, advocating for a spiritual fellowship that reflects the unity of the Body. Ultimately, the goal is to build up local expressions of the Church, ensuring that all efforts are aligned with God's will and purpose.
The Power of Oneness
By K.P. Yohannan0GEN 11:6JHN 13:34K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the profound power of oneness among believers, drawing from the story of the Tower of Babel to illustrate that unity can be harnessed for both good and evil. He highlights that when believers unite in love and purpose, nothing is impossible for them, as exemplified by Jesus' perfect unity with the Father. Yohannan warns that the enemy seeks to sow division within the Body of Christ, as disunity can hinder God's work. He encourages believers to love one another genuinely, as this love is the hallmark of true discipleship and the key to fulfilling God's purposes. Ultimately, he challenges the congregation to reflect on their relationships and strive for deeper love and unity.
The Corporate Expression of the Heavenly Man
By T. Austin-Sparks0EPH 3:17T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the concept of the Church as the corporate expression of the Heavenly Man, Jesus Christ, highlighting the unity and interdependence of believers as members of His Body. He explains that the Church is not merely an organization but a living entity that shares in the life and purpose of Christ, governed by the Holy Spirit. Sparks stresses the importance of recognizing our interrelatedness and the necessity of each member for the fulfillment of God's purpose. He also discusses the gifts given by Christ to the Church for its growth and maturity, underscoring the roles of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers in building up the Body of Christ. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a renewed understanding of our identity in Christ and our collective responsibility to maintain unity and express His fullness in the world.
The Fullness of Christ - Eph 4
By Phil Beach Jr.3242:16EPH 4:1Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of experiencing the fullness of Christ as outlined in Ephesians 4, urging believers to pursue spiritual maturity and unity in the body of Christ. He explains that while believers are justified by faith, they must also strive for a deeper relationship with Christ, which is facilitated by the Holy Spirit and the Word of God. Beach highlights the role of church leaders in guiding the congregation towards this goal, stressing that their purpose is to serve the church and help members realize their high calling in Christ. He calls for a balance between the Word and the Spirit, warning against legalism and mysticism, and encourages believers to run the race of faith with intention and purpose.
One Body - Many Members
By G.W. North01CO 12:12G.W. North emphasizes the analogy of the human body to illustrate the unity and diversity within the body of Christ. Just as each part of the body, like the hand, is perfectly formed and suited for its specific function, so too are believers uniquely gifted and placed within the Church. At baptism, each member is born into this spiritual body, equipped with gifts from the Holy Spirit that enable them to contribute meaningfully. North encourages believers to seek these spiritual gifts through faith, highlighting the importance of growth and training in fulfilling their roles. Ultimately, every member is essential for the proper functioning of the whole body of Christ.
I Have Need of You
By David Wilkerson0MAT 18:20ROM 12:41CO 12:21GAL 6:2EPH 4:16COL 3:141TH 5:11HEB 10:24David Wilkerson emphasizes the necessity of connection among believers in the body of Christ, arguing that one cannot truly commune with Jesus while isolating from other members. He illustrates that just as a body cannot function with only a head, Christians must recognize their interdependence and the importance of every member, especially those who feel bruised or unworthy. Wilkerson highlights Paul's teaching that every member is vital to the body, and that even those who feel insignificant are necessary for its proper functioning. He calls on believers to actively support one another against spiritual attacks, stressing that mere comfort is insufficient; they must also engage in spiritual warfare together. Ultimately, he reassures that every believer is needed and valued in the eyes of Christ.
Growing in Unity
By David Wilkerson0JHN 13:34ROM 15:5GAL 3:28EPH 4:3PHP 1:27COL 3:142TH 1:3HEB 10:241PE 4:81JN 4:12David Wilkerson emphasizes the remarkable growth of the Thessalonian Christians in faith and love, as highlighted by Paul's commendation in 2 Thessalonians 1:3. He illustrates how their spiritual maturity made them exemplary among other churches, showcasing a unity that transcended ethnic and social barriers. The preaching they received inspired them to deepen their relationship with Christ and reject false teachings, fostering a community that honored God's Word. Wilkerson encourages believers to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance to identify areas of weakness, allowing God to nurture their spiritual growth. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to love and unity within the body of Christ.
The Gifts of Christ
By Smith Wigglesworth0EPH 4:1EPH 4:7Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes the significance of the gifts of Christ as described by the Apostle Paul in Ephesians 4. He illustrates that upon believing, individuals become part of Christ's body, receiving grace and gifts that enable them to fulfill their divine calling. Wigglesworth encourages believers to seek the sealing of the Holy Spirit, which reveals Christ's glory and empowers them to serve in unity and strength within the church. He urges the congregation to press into their spiritual rights and live fully in God's will, becoming fruit-bearers for His glory. The sermon calls for humility and a deep connection with God through the Holy Spirit.
1 Corinthians 12
By John Nelson Darby01CO 12:4John Nelson Darby explores the themes of spiritual gifts and the manifestation of the Spirit in 1 Corinthians 12, emphasizing the importance of unity within the body of Christ. He contrasts the gifts of the Spirit with demonic manifestations, highlighting that true prophecy serves to edify, exhort, and comfort the church. Darby explains that the baptism of the Spirit unites believers into one body, and stresses the necessity of mutual care among members of the church. He warns against divisions and emphasizes that the local assembly reflects the whole body of Christ, urging believers to seek gifts that build up the church. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of the church and the importance of each member's contribution.
Fitted Together
By K.P. Yohannan01KI 18:31MAT 18:20MRK 6:7JHN 13:351PE 2:5K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the significance of unity among believers, drawing parallels from the Old Testament where Elijah repaired the altar with 12 stones representing the tribes of Israel, highlighting that all were needed for God's power to be displayed. He illustrates that just as the stones in Solomon's temple were perfectly fitted together, so too are believers called to be united as living stones in God's spiritual temple. Yohannan stresses that the kingdom of God thrives on relationships and love, as demonstrated by Jesus' teachings on gathering in His name and loving one another. He concludes that disunity stems from a lack of love, and by embracing Jesus' command to love, believers can witness the kingdom of God manifest in their lives.
The New Cruse (Continued)
By T. Austin-Sparks0T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the necessity of a 'new cruse'—a spiritual instrument aligned with God's will and the Holy Spirit's guidance. He discusses the importance of relative and representative ministry, highlighting biblical figures like Esther and Daniel, who embodied this principle by interceding for their people. Sparks warns against the dangers of division and suspicion within the Body of Christ, urging believers to maintain fellowship and unity despite differences. He stresses that true ministry must be rooted in a deep relationship with God, prepared to meet the needs of others, and that the enemy seeks to disrupt this unity through discord. Ultimately, he calls for a diligent pursuit of spiritual growth and a commitment to love and support one another in faith.
The Bond of Perfection
By K.P. Yohannan0NUM 12:9NUM 14:37NUM 16:30LUK 11:17COL 3:12K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the critical importance of unity within the Body of Christ, likening disunity to a boxing match between one's own limbs. He warns that the devil exploits differences among believers to create strife, which ultimately hinders the work of the Lord. Through personal testimony, he illustrates how his own rebellion against leadership led to disunity, but a transformative encounter with God taught him the value of humility and love. Yohannan concludes that genuine love is the bond of perfection that fosters unity and effective ministry. He urges believers to put on love and embrace one another to overcome division.
(One Body in Christ) 6. Power Through Unity
By Zac Poonen0PRO 30:27ECC 4:9MAT 16:18MAT 18:18ACT 1:14ACT 2:44ACT 12:5EPH 4:3COL 2:15HEB 2:14Zac Poonen emphasizes the power of unity within the Body of Christ, illustrating that two or more believers working together can achieve far more than individuals acting alone. He warns against the dangers of isolation and division, which are tactics used by Satan to weaken the Church. Poonen clarifies that true unity is not an organizational construct but a spiritual bond under Christ's headship, forged by the Holy Spirit. He encourages believers to strive for harmony and to recognize their collective authority in spiritual warfare, as demonstrated in the early Church. Ultimately, he calls for a return to understanding and living out the truth of being one Body in Christ to effectively combat the forces of darkness.
Problems, Doctrines and Differences
By K.P. Yohannan0MAT 25:40JHN 13:34ROM 15:51CO 12:12GAL 5:13EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:14HEB 10:241PE 4:8K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the importance of focusing on love rather than getting bogged down by problems, doctrines, or differences within the Christian community. He encourages believers to extend grace and compassion to one another, reminding them that serving others is akin to serving Christ. The sermon calls for unity among believers, urging them to live, pray, and suffer together as one body in Christ for the sake of the world. Yohannan highlights the privilege and calling of being part of God's family, bound together in love that transcends faults and divisions.
A Jigsaw Puzzle
By T. Austin-Sparks0EPH 2:21EPH 4:12T. Austin-Sparks delivers a profound message to young Christians, likening the church to a jigsaw puzzle where each believer is a unique piece that fits into God's grand design. He emphasizes that every individual has a specific place and purpose within the body of Christ, and that true fulfillment comes from recognizing and accepting this role. Sparks highlights the importance of the headship of Christ in aligning believers and fostering unity, asserting that the Holy Spirit guides each person to their rightful position. He encourages Christians to embrace their experiences as part of God's intricate plan, ultimately leading to a complete and beautiful picture of the church. The sermon concludes with the hope that one day, believers will see the full design of God's work in their lives.
Building the House of God - Part 1
By Phil Beach Jr.251:16:02ROM 12:41CO 1:101CO 3:61CO 12:12GAL 6:2EPH 4:16PHP 2:3COL 3:14HEB 10:241PE 4:10Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of teamwork in the building of God's house, illustrating that no individual can outshine another in the body of Christ. He shares a personal story about his son playing soccer to highlight that every member has a vital role, and the success of the team depends on collective contributions rather than individual accolades. Beach warns against the dangers of pride and division within the church, urging believers to recognize their interconnectedness and the necessity of each member's contribution to fulfill God's purpose. He calls for a deeper understanding of God's overarching plan and the need for humility and unity among believers.
To What Should We Be Loyal
By William MacDonald0MAT 18:20LUK 6:37JHN 14:16ROM 12:11CO 1:101CO 12:12EPH 4:4EPH 4:11PHP 1:151PE 2:5William MacDonald emphasizes that loyalty should not be to any denomination or group of Christians, as no group is perfect. Instead, our loyalty must be to the Lord and the principles of His Word, as every denomination can drift away from biblical truth over time. He warns against the dangers of sectarianism and encourages believers to evaluate all groups and individuals based on Scripture rather than tradition or affiliation. MacDonald highlights the importance of unity in the body of Christ and the need for each believer to recognize their role as part of the whole. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to the teachings of the New Testament and a rejection of any form of denominational pride.
Growing Up Into Christ Ephesians 4
By John Nelson Darby0JHN 15:12ROM 5:52CO 5:17EPH 2:19EPH 4:13PHP 1:6COL 1:27HEB 10:241PE 2:91JN 4:12John Nelson Darby emphasizes the profound love and interest God has in blessing His people, illustrating that His thoughts are centered on bringing us into the fullness of Christ. He explains that through Christ's descent and ascent, we find strength and comfort, as He understands our trials and sorrows. Darby highlights that our natural portion as Christians is to enjoy God, and that the love of God is poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit. He encourages believers to grow up into Christ, fostering unity and love among one another, as this reflects God's nature. Ultimately, our fellowship and communion with each other are rooted in the divine love that God has for us, which transcends worldly troubles.
Choose the Low Road
By K.P. Yohannan0PHP 2:1K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the vital connection between humility and unity in the Body of Christ, drawing from Philippians 2:1-4. He shares personal experiences of overcoming pride and the importance of submitting to one another in love, illustrating that true love and service stem from humility. Yohannan highlights that without humility, unity cannot exist, and he encourages believers to actively seek opportunities to serve and honor others. He reflects on the transformative power of humility in relationships and the necessity of addressing conflicts with love and grace. Ultimately, he calls for a community of believers willing to bend and submit to one another to experience God's blessings.
Persons, Ministries, Functions
By T. Austin-Sparks0JHN 17:211CO 1:121CO 3:31CO 3:121CO 3:211CO 12:122CO 5:16EPH 4:3COL 3:11T. Austin-Sparks addresses the roots of division within the church, particularly referencing the Corinthian church's struggles with personalities, ministries, and functions. He emphasizes that these divisions stem from a failure to understand the unity found in Christ and the significance of recognizing all forms of ministry as vital to the body of Christ. Sparks warns against the dangers of glorifying individual leaders and ministries, which can lead to disunity and a lack of spiritual growth. He calls for a deeper understanding of our identity in Christ, urging believers to move beyond infantile divisions and embrace the diverse yet unified body of Christ. Ultimately, he challenges the church to prioritize the growth of Christ over personal preferences and biases.
Its Heavenly Aspect
By T. Austin-Sparks0EPH 1:22T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the heavenly aspect of the Church as the Body of Christ, highlighting its corporate nature as described in the letter to the Ephesians. He explains that despite earthly divisions and schisms, the Church remains one and united in Christ, as it is fundamentally a spiritual reality that transcends human differences. Sparks encourages believers to recognize their heavenly position in Christ to fully appreciate this unity and to overcome the visible separations that exist among Christians. He asserts that our disagreements do not sever our connection to the Body of Christ, and that true fellowship is found in acknowledging our shared identity in Him. Ultimately, the message calls for a deeper understanding of the Church's oneness and the importance of viewing it from a heavenly perspective.
Healings and Miracles
By G.W. North0MAT 17:20MRK 16:17JHN 14:13ROM 5:51CO 12:41CO 12:27EPH 4:12PHP 4:7JAS 5:141PE 4:10G.W. North emphasizes that every born-again believer has experienced the gifts of healing and miracles, which are manifestations of God's grace in their lives. He highlights the comfort and peace that come from the Holy Spirit, as well as the miraculous answers to prayer and provision that believers encounter. North explains that while these gifts may be given to a few, they are intended for the mutual benefit of the entire Body of Christ and ultimately for God's glory. He encourages believers to recognize that these gifts are not for personal pride but for the collective good of all. The sermon calls for unity and appreciation of the diverse gifts within the church, all empowered by the same Spirit.
(How to Understand the Kjv Bible) 34 Psalm 133
By Keith Simons6323:21EXO 30:22LEV 8:12PSA 16:9PSA 23:6PSA 133:1JHN 3:16Keith Simons explores Psalm 133, emphasizing the beauty of unity among God's people as they gather for sacred feasts in Jerusalem. He illustrates how the psalm reflects a vision of harmony, where brethren dwell together in peace, akin to the anointing oil on Aaron, symbolizing the Holy Spirit's work in bringing people together. Simons highlights the importance of sharing blessings and the promise of eternal life that God commands for those who worship Him in unity. The sermon encourages believers to foster relationships that reflect this divine unity and to recognize the blessings that come from being together in faith.
Sharing With the Karachi Team
By George Verwer89758:00EPH 4:1George Verwer shares his experiences and challenges during his trip to Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of financial trust in God while also working diligently to support the ministry. He recounts how God provided for their airfares through book sales and generous gifts, highlighting the unity and support among believers in Kuwait and the need for prayer for the local church. Verwer stresses the significance of maintaining unity within the body of Christ, addressing the challenges of pride, criticism, and disunity that can arise in ministry. He encourages the team to work towards greater love and unity, reminding them that their actions and attitudes can greatly impact their witness. The sermon concludes with a call to prayer for the ongoing work in Kuwait and the broader mission efforts.
One Body in Christ
By Watchman Nee0ROM 12:4Watchman Nee emphasizes the concept of unity in the Body of Christ, explaining that while individual experiences of faith are important, they must be understood within the context of the collective body of believers. He warns against oversimplifying salvation and stresses the necessity of recognizing the various phases of Christian experience, including revelation, crisis, and continuous process. Nee highlights that the work of Christ on the Cross encompasses both remedial and positive aspects, ultimately leading to the creation of a glorious Church that reflects God's eternal purpose. He calls for believers to present themselves as one living sacrifice, acknowledging their interdependence within the Body of Christ, which is essential for fulfilling God's purpose. The sermon concludes with the assurance that through Christ, the Church is empowered to overcome the challenges posed by sin and the enemy.
The Race
By Erlo Stegen01CO 9:24Erlo Stegen emphasizes that the Christian life is akin to a race, where believers must run with purpose and discipline to obtain an eternal crown. He highlights the importance of unity within the body of Christ, reminding us that our actions affect the entire team, just as sin impacted Israel in the Old Testament. Stegen warns against living a double life and stresses the need for faithfulness in our God-given roles, urging believers to listen to the Holy Spirit as the ultimate guide. He draws parallels between sports rules and God's commandments, illustrating that disobedience can lead to disqualification from the race of faith. Ultimately, he calls for self-examination and repentance to ensure we are running the race effectively and in accordance with God's will.
He Is the Head of the Body
By G.W. North01CO 12:12G.W. North emphasizes the significance of understanding both our individual importance and the gifts we have received as members of the body of Christ. He explains that these gifts are not only for personal edification but are essential for the mutual benefit and building up of the entire body. The ministry of the saints is to utilize these gifts for the glory of Christ, with Jesus as the Head of the Body guiding and empowering each member through His Spirit. Each member must submit to Christ to develop a collective mind that reflects the Spirit's purpose. Ultimately, the gifts enable the body to function effectively, mirroring the way Jesus operated among people.
Letter: 13f 33 Mr Maylan, Geneva, January 2nd, 1840
By John Nelson Darby0MAT 28:19JHN 15:12ROM 12:10GAL 6:2EPH 4:3PHP 4:191TH 5:112TI 2:13HEB 10:231PE 5:8John Nelson Darby encourages Mr. Maylan in his work for the Lord, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness amidst trials and the dangers of isolation in faith. He warns against the temptations of pride and depression that can arise when walking a path less traveled by others, urging constant communion with God. Darby expresses concern about the potential weakening of Mr. Maylan's ties to the established church as he pursues evangelization, advocating for unity among all believers despite differing views. He stresses the necessity of remaining free from human constraints while serving God, and the joy found in brotherly communion. Ultimately, Darby conveys his heartfelt support and love for the Swiss brethren, hoping for their continued strength in faith.
(One Body in Christ) 1. One Body - the Basis of Fellowship
By Zac Poonen0Zac Poonen emphasizes the critical importance of fellowship among believers, arguing that despite being born again, many Christians still struggle with interpersonal conflicts that tarnish the witness of the Church. He highlights that true love for God is evidenced by love for fellow believers, as outlined in 1 John, and that broken fellowship deprives individuals of experiencing Christ's love and fullness. Poonen illustrates that the Church, as the Body of Christ, must function in unity and love to fulfill its divine purpose, warning that disunity hinders Christ's work on earth. He calls for believers to seek spiritual vision to recognize their role within the Body and to live out their calling in humility and love.
(Power From on High) 12. the Holy Spirit in the Body of Christ
By A.B. Simpson0ACT 1:81CO 12:13EPH 4:4A.B. Simpson emphasizes the vital role of the Holy Spirit in the Body of Christ, explaining that the church is not merely an organization but a living entity constituted and sustained by the Holy Ghost. He illustrates how the Holy Spirit baptizes believers into one body, unites them with Christ, and empowers them for ministry. Simpson highlights the necessity of being filled with the Spirit to maintain spiritual life and effectiveness in service, urging believers to recognize their individual roles within the body. He concludes by affirming that every member, regardless of their perceived importance, is essential and endowed by the Holy Spirit for the work of the church.