Unity In Community
Conflict – stuck together fighting, a contest
Romans 15:1-7 NIV
1 We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. 2 Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. 3 For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.” 4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. 5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, 6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.
1 Corinthians 8:1-3 NIV
1 Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that “We all possess knowledge.” But knowledge puffs up while love builds up. 2 Those who think they know something do not yet know as they ought to know. 3 But whoever loves God is known by God.
“In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity.” -Augustine
We have a common unity in the Gospel.
Reminders for Unity
I. It’s not your job to fix people.
Romans 15:1 NIV
1 We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.
- Tact: Am I saying it right?
- Tone: Am I saying it calmly?
- Timing: Am I speaking at the right time?
Reminders for Unity
I. It’s not your job to fix people.
II. Set some boundaries.
Romans 12:17-21 NIV
17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary:“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Your critics don’t define you – Christ does.
Reminders for Unity
I. It’s not your job to fix people.
II. Set some boundaries.
III. Accept people at different stages.
Romans 15:7 NIV
7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.
Reminders for Unity
I. It’s not your job to fix people.
II. Set some boundaries.
III. Accept people at different stages.
IV. Don’t be a legend in your own mind.
1 Corinthians 8:1-3 NIV
1 Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that “We all possess knowledge.” But knowledge puffs up while love builds up. 2 Those who think they know something do not yet know as they ought to know. 3 But whoever loves God is known by God.
It’s not what you know; it's that God knows you.