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As we work through difficult issues in the nation to determine what is true and how to take a united stand in prayer as believers, we must agree to work together on the foundation of God’s Word and the resurrected power of Christ. Even when we disagree, our mutual love and concern for one another should be a testament to the world that Christ’s Body is one. Our united stand and unified voice have the power to shift things in both the natural and the spiritual realms.

I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought. (1 Cor 1:10)

This has become a core conviction to me personally since my own family history is a picture of the “church” at large. Even with all our differences, we know we are family and will stand together for what truly matters: My paternal grandmother was Irish Catholic. My maternal grandparents were Amish. My father was a first generation Christian and my mother was Mennonite. My father became an evangelist who reached out to the homeless and spoke in many denominations through his years. As a youth I attended a neighborhood Evangelical Free Church. My next-door neighbor was a Catholic and my best friend in high school was Methodist. I married a Spirit-filled Mennonite and we went to a Charismatic university (Oral Roberts) where we interned at a Methodist church. My oldest brother was a cessationist. My oldest sister married a Baptist and my other sister married a Lutheran. My younger brother loves Jesus but doesn’t attend church anywhere.

Can you imagine what our family reunions are like!?

In my younger years, I struggled with how to relate to my siblings on religious matters. In my zeal to convert them to my personal convictions and experiences, I ended up alienating them and sowing discord. Eventually, I learned to keep Jesus central and our differences in their proper place. Though we will probably never attend the same church or agree on every doctrine, our bonds of fellowship are now held together by a mutual love for Christ, our desire to be change agents for good, and the knowledge of our eternal home.

[T]hat all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. (Jn 17:21)

The Bride of Christ is a collective family. We may prioritize different aspects of our faith and demonstrate our love for the Lord in different ways. Our experiences will differ and viewpoints will vary. Yet, when we have determined to honor one another and reach for the same finish line as sons and daughters of the King, our corporate witness and testimony is powerful.

Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul… and great grace was upon them all. (Acts 4:32-33 ESV)

In the end, it’s not about you or me. It’s about US. As we set our hearts and minds on Kingdom purposes, there is a corporate grace available that empowers us to defeat our enemies and turn the world upside down. Let’s celebrate our diversity and set our gaze on the prize.

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Vicki
May 1, 2019

Lord, what a convicting article. Father I pray for the Church to be United in Christ alone, and would You bind the powers and principalities we war against that want us divided. Would You expose the workers of inequity in places of power within the Church. Father thank You for awakening men and giving them a healthy fear of You alone, that they may stand solid for the faith, raise up those voices in the nation to stand on Your Word as social issues are discussed in the Church. May we be United in Your Word against the emotions of the world, and with love and truth show them grace and mercy as they bow the knee to You, for Your word says one day every knee shall bow, and may You draw them near while they still have breath. Lord, please send Your Holy Spirit to make us a holy people, seeking Your righteousness and forgiveness knowing You will have mercy on whom You will have mercy, and You will take vengeance against Your enemies. Thank You Lord for what You are doing in our nation. May we see it through the lens of Your Son Jesus. Amen

Doug Spurling
April 30, 2019

*This* is so powerful a topic. The only prayer of Jesus as He walked this earth, that is yet to be fulfilled, He still ever lives to make intercession for US to be one, as He is One, so the world will believe.

The simple phrase, “United we stand, divided we fall” is wielded well by the world; alas, the ‘church’ divides over difference in doctrine and colors of carpet.

I stand with you, united in faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. …and if He be lifted up, will draw all unto Himself.

    Carolyn
    April 30, 2019

    Thank you!! Profound and timely. My husband and I will discuss and pray. Hopefully our concerned friends will join us. Be blessdd

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