Higher Everyday
Church Unity: A Necessity
Saturday, November 4, 2023
Key Verse
“Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Corinthians 1:10 ).
Text — 1 Corinthians 1:10-13
Message
Samuel Johnson Stone, who wrote the hymn, “The Church’s One Foundation,” made a sad observation about the Church. In one of the stanzas, he lamented:
“Though with a scornful wonder,
Men see her sore oppressed,
By schisms rent asunder,
By heresies distressed,
Yet saints their watch are keeping…”
The song was written as a direct response to controversies in the Church of South Africa, caused by John William Collenso, who denounced some portions of the Bible as fictitious in 1866.
The Church today is still full of divisions due to doctrinal differences. Apostle Paul rebuked the Church in Corinth for party spirit and sectarianism. James reproved those who fight and war as a result of unbridled lusts within (James 4:1). Other causes of division in the Church include unhealthy competition, discrimination, selfishness, pride and lack of forgiveness. These vices must be stopped. The Church is one body – one Lord, one faith, one baptism. All members must endeavour to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Quote
The Church is one body.
Challenge
Conflicts are unnecessary
Prayer for today
Lord, help me to strive for unity in the Church.
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