Unity in the Body
The book of Ephesians is broken down into two segments: Ephesians 1-3 is highly doctrinal and Ephesians 4-6 is highly duty focused. How are we called as Christians to live out our Christian doctrinal beliefs?
As Paul begins the “duty” section of his letter to the Ephesians, he urges believers to “walk worthy” of the calling they have received. One of the clearest marks of a healthy church is not the absence of differences but the presence of unity.
Paul reminds us that unity requires humility, gentleness, patience, and a willingness to bear with one another in love. In a world that is increasingly divided, the church is called to demonstrate the reconciling power of Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 4:1-16 teaches that our unity is rooted in what we share together in Christ. There is one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of all. While we come from different backgrounds, generations, and experiences, we are united by the gospel. God has also given different gifts to His people, not to create competition, but to strengthen and build up the entire body of Christ.
As we grow together in faith, our goal is spiritual maturity. Paul describes a church that is no longer tossed about by every wind of preference, but is firmly anchored in Christ. When each member faithfully serves and speaks the truth in love, the whole body grows stronger. My prayer for One Hope Church is that we would continue pursuing unity, growing in maturity, and working together so that Christ may be glorified in all we do.
My ultimate vision for One Hope is that when I am no longer able to serve in the capacity of Senior Pastor, I will be able to pass the baton to a younger leader who will inherit a church of mature believers who crucify their preferences for the privilege of being perfected by Christ. It would not be good stewardship to hand the reins of ministry over to another pastor if the One Hope body is not unified.
Together with you in the journey,
Pastor Patrick