Unity in the Spirit
Unity in the Spirit16
Epistle 416
By George Fox0PRO 25:28JHN 6:35ROM 8:131CO 5:7EPH 2:6EPH 4:3COL 3:11TI 2:102TI 4:3HEB 1:3JAS 1:151PE 3:41JN 1:1REV 3:10George Fox emphasizes the importance of unity in the Holy Spirit among Friends, urging elders to be examples of wisdom and patience for the younger generation. He warns against the distractions of worldly fashions that can lead to spiritual blindness and the burden of false teachings. Fox highlights the necessity of mortifying sin through the Spirit of God, encouraging believers to set their affections on heavenly things and partake in the spiritual feast of Christ. He reminds the congregation that Christ, our Passover, has been sacrificed, and they must keep the feast with sincerity and truth, purging out the old leaven of malice. The call is to embrace a new life in Christ, adorned with godliness and a meek spirit.
Epistle 178
By George Fox0MAT 18:15LUK 1:33JHN 8:321CO 9:121CO 12:13GAL 4:29EPH 4:5COL 4:61TH 5:19HEB 6:4HEB 12:91PE 1:221JN 5:9George Fox emphasizes the importance of being partakers of God's power and the heavenly gift, which fosters unity, peace, and a kingdom without end. He warns against the division caused by those who possess the words of scripture but lack the spirit and power that originally inspired them. Fox encourages believers to remain faithful, obedient to the truth, and to spread it widely, addressing the witness of God in all people. He stresses the necessity of coming together in one body through the baptism of the Spirit, and the importance of resolving conflicts privately to maintain the integrity of the truth. Ultimately, he calls for wisdom that preserves unity and peace among believers.
Letter: 52e 112 Brother, -, September 24th, 1846
By John Nelson Darby0EZR 3:3MAT 18:20ACT 2:42ROM 12:41CO 12:122CO 5:17GAL 6:2EPH 4:11HEB 10:241PE 2:9John Nelson Darby emphasizes the importance of recognizing the current state of the church, which he describes as a general ruin of the dispensation. He expresses confidence in God's ability to maintain a remnant of believers united in love through the Holy Spirit, rather than relying on formal government structures. Darby believes that true ministry comes from the conscience in grace and that Christ's presence is assured where believers gather in His name. He warns against the dangers of seeking carnal unity through authority and encourages reliance on God's provision for the church's needs. Ultimately, he advocates for a humble approach to church life, trusting in God's faithfulness and the power of the Holy Spirit.
The Unity of the Spirit
By Andrew Murray0EPH 4:1Andrew Murray emphasizes the importance of maintaining the unity of the Spirit within the Church, as outlined in Ephesians 4:1-4. He explains that believers are called to walk in humility and love, recognizing that the Holy Spirit unites them not only to Christ but also to one another as members of His body. Murray highlights the need for Christians to forbear one another in love, despite differences, and to actively cultivate fellowship that reflects the unity of the Spirit. He urges believers to pray for the Church's unity and to recognize the divine life in each other, which transcends personal differences. Ultimately, he calls for a deep reverence for the work of the Holy Spirit both within oneself and in fellow believers.
Our Calling (Part 2)
By Smith Wigglesworth0EPH 4:1Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes the importance of walking worthy of our calling as Christians, urging believers to be filled with the Spirit and to maintain unity in the body of Christ. He highlights that true transformation comes from brokenness and yielding to God, allowing His Spirit to work through us for the edification of the Church. Wigglesworth encourages preachers to pass on the blessings they receive, fostering a vibrant and fruitful community. He stresses the necessity of being continually filled with the Holy Spirit and the significance of forgiveness in maintaining peace and unity among believers. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper commitment to God, urging everyone to embrace their calling and the gifts He has prepared for them.
(Power From on High) 17. the Spirit of Love
By A.B. Simpson0MAT 5:44JHN 13:34ROM 5:51CO 13:4GAL 5:22EPH 4:2COL 1:81PE 4:81JN 3:181JN 4:7A.B. Simpson emphasizes the profound nature of 'love in the Spirit' as reported by Epaphras regarding the Colossian Church, which was characterized by divine love that transcends mere human affection. This love, rooted in the Holy Spirit, fosters unity, selflessness, and a deep connection among believers, contrasting sharply with natural love that is often selfish and conditional. Simpson illustrates that divine love is patient, enduring, and unconditional, reflecting God's own love for humanity, especially in times of suffering and wrong. He calls for believers to embody this love, which is a manifestation of Christ within them, and to see every challenge as an opportunity to grow in love. Ultimately, he urges the church to embrace the Holy Spirit's guidance in cultivating this divine love that fulfills the law and embodies holiness.
Epistle 312
By George Fox0MAT 5:6JHN 14:13ROM 10:151CO 14:152CO 3:62CO 4:4EPH 4:3PHP 4:7HEB 4:16REV 14:6George Fox emphasizes the necessity of being in the power and spirit of God for true prayer, singing, and ministry. He explains that genuine spiritual experiences bring joy and unity among believers, and that those who minister in the spirit cannot judge others who express their joy and praise in response. Fox warns against the spirit of error that leads to confusion and disorder, urging all to remain humble and united in the spirit of God. He highlights the importance of intercession and the collective prayer of the assembly, which should be done in sincerity and integrity. Ultimately, he calls for maintaining peace and order within the church as a reflection of Christ's peace.
Epistle 228
By George Fox0MAT 7:31CO 4:51CO 9:18GAL 5:19GAL 5:22EPH 4:30PHP 1:51TH 5:19REV 2:4George Fox addresses his friends, urging them to remain grounded in the power of God and to avoid the pitfalls of judgment and division that arise from the flesh. He warns against high-mindedness and the tendency to focus on the faults of others while neglecting one's own shortcomings. Fox emphasizes the importance of unity, love, and the fruits of the Spirit, contrasting them with the destructive behaviors that stem from the flesh. He calls for a return to their first love and the true fellowship that comes from living in the power of God, encouraging them to reject gossip and strife. Ultimately, he reassures them that by dwelling in God's power, they can maintain peace and grow in their spiritual lives.
The Nature of the Body of Christ
By T. Austin-Sparks01CO 12:12T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the unique nature of the Church as 'The Body of Christ,' a concept exclusively articulated by the Apostle Paul. He explains that this designation transcends mere community or congregation, illustrating a profound spiritual union where every local assembly represents the whole Body of Christ. Sparks highlights that the Church is not localized but universal, with the Holy Spirit as the unifying factor, ensuring that every member is interconnected and vital to the whole. He stresses the importance of recognizing the Body's spiritual nature, which is rooted in the revelation and application of the Cross, and the necessity for believers to function under the Lordship of Christ and the liberty of the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper understanding of the Body of Christ as a living, spiritual entity that reflects Christ's fullness and purpose in the world.
The Same Spirit
By G.W. North01CO 12:12G.W. North emphasizes the necessity of being filled with the same Spirit as members of Christ's body, ensuring unity and purpose among believers. He explains that the Spirit must not only dwell in each member but also actively work through them, allowing for diverse functions within the body of Christ. North warns against incomplete experiences due to a lack of understanding of the Spirit's role, urging believers to recognize their eternal life and functional capacity in Christ. He highlights that all gifts and operations come from the same Spirit, reinforcing the idea that they are not for personal ownership but for the collective purpose of the body. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper awareness of the Spirit's work in each believer to manifest God's glory.
Letter: 7e 19 J L Harris, Limerick, Rec'd August 19th, 1833
By John Nelson Darby0EPH 6:111JN 4:1John Nelson Darby addresses J.L. Harris in a heartfelt letter, expressing his struggles against heresy that has subtly infiltrated the church, causing confusion among believers. He emphasizes the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit and scripture to discern truth from error, highlighting that human reasoning alone cannot grasp divine truth. Darby reflects on the trials faced by the church and the necessity of maintaining a state of grace to combat the influence of false teachings. He encourages unity and love among believers, recognizing the refreshing power of God's word amidst challenges. Ultimately, he expresses hope for the future of the church and the work of the Lord in the midst of trials.
The Continuous Controversy and Conflict
By T. Austin-Sparks0EXO 7:161CH 21:1JHN 2:19ACT 7:481CO 1:131CO 12:13EPH 3:16EPH 4:4EPH 6:12REV 21:3T. Austin-Sparks addresses the ongoing conflict and controversy present from the beginning of the Bible, emphasizing that the central issue is God's desire to dwell among His people. He illustrates how this theme of divine habitation has been challenged throughout history, from the Garden of Eden to the early Church, highlighting the spiritual warfare that seeks to disrupt this fellowship. Sparks points out that the Church faces internal divisions and conflicts, which are often rooted in a spiritual battle against forces that oppose God's purpose. He calls for believers to recognize the importance of unity in the Spirit, as true oneness is essential for God's presence among His people. Ultimately, the sermon urges Christians to be vigilant and aware of the spiritual dynamics at play in their relationships and fellowship.
Our Calling (Part 1)
By Smith Wigglesworth0EPH 4:1Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes the significance of understanding our divine calling as Christians, particularly for those who aspire to preach. He draws from Ephesians 4, urging believers to walk in humility, love, and unity, while recognizing the gifts given by Christ for the edification of the church. Wigglesworth highlights the importance of being Spirit-led in ministry, warning against the dangers of self-promotion and the need for preachers to remain focused on Christ. He encourages a life filled with divine love and compassion, which empowers believers to fulfill their calling and maintain unity within the body of Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to live out this high calling with reverence and joy.
Unity of the Holy Spirit
By Michael Koulianos2853:23EPH 4:1Michael Koulianos emphasizes the importance of the unity of the Holy Spirit, urging believers to embody lowliness, gentleness, and long-suffering in their relationships with one another. He highlights that true unity is not based on personal perspectives or methods but is rooted in the presence of the Holy Spirit, which fosters genuine love and compassion among believers. Koulianos encourages the congregation to prioritize their union with Jesus, as this will naturally lead to unity with others, and warns against the dangers of division that can arise from a lack of spiritual connection. He concludes by reminding the audience that love, as exemplified by Jesus, is a choice that requires self-sacrifice and commitment to one another.
The Gentiles Also
By G.W. North0ACT 10:44G.W. North emphasizes the significance of the Gentiles receiving the Holy Spirit, highlighting the unity and humility among early believers who recognized that all gifts come from God. He explains that spiritual gifts are not measures of a person's worth but tools for ministry that reveal one's character and effectiveness in their calling. North points out that the events in Jerusalem and Samaria were not the ultimate pattern for the Church, as God's plan extends beyond these groups to encompass all humanity, particularly the Gentiles. He encourages believers to understand the broader implications of God's work and the importance of recognizing the gifts given to each individual for the purpose of ministry.
Epistle 171
By George Fox0JHN 1:3JHN 5:24JHN 13:35ROM 13:10GAL 5:22EPH 2:8COL 3:171TI 1:5HEB 12:21JN 4:16George Fox emphasizes the necessity of performing all actions in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, urging believers to dwell in love as the hallmark of true discipleship. He critiques the reliance on man-made religious practices and emphasizes that true faith and unity come from the Spirit of God, which empowers believers and leads them to genuine fellowship. Fox warns against the dangers of religious persecution and the hypocrisy of those who pray for forgiveness yet fail to extend it to others. He calls for a return to the pure faith that is a gift from God, which transcends all human traditions and divisions. Ultimately, he encourages believers to remain steadfast in the Spirit, which is the source of their strength and unity.