"But whatever happens to me, you must live in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ, as citizens of heaven. Then, whether I come and see you again, or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing side by side, fighting together for the Good News."
~Philippians 1:27 NLT
UNITY is such an essential in the spreading of the Good News that Paul makes sure to begin his letter to the churches and believers in Philippi with this encouragement.
The TRUTH is, the UNITY of God's people will be the vessel that allows the message to reach people who are immersed in a dog-eat-dog world.
As God's people stand together SIDE-BY-SIDE (which is a wonderful metaphor) their combined strength, gifts, and talents allow the message to reach the hearts, minds, and ears of those who need the HOPE and PEACE that only Jesus can bring.
Unfortunately, the REALITY is so much time and effort and energy is LOST in many churches because people are divided! They allow their theological issues or their personal preferences (worship styles, teaching methods, communion choices etc.) to destroy the UNITY that Paul calls them to and that Jesus DIED for!
Instead of STANDING together in the battle against our REAL opposition too many people in our churches today battle each other and the leaders that God has called to shepherd them.
Which tells me that it takes GREAT COURAGE... it takes a COURAGEOUS CHURCH to resist the infighting that can so easily distract from the spreading of the GOSPEL which is the REAL fight we have been called, commissioned, and equipped for together!
PRAYING that we as God's people can maintain the COMMON purposed of which we have been called to!
Rev Trev
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