I Will Protect the Unity of My Church

BIG IDEA

I will protect the unity of my church.

1st Corinthians 1:10

I appeal to you, brothers and sisters... 

in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ... 

that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.

1.  I will protect the unity of my church's beliefs.

Romans 16:17-18, I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.

• By studying God's Word.
• By trusting in God's Word.
• By speaking up for God's Word.

2.  I will protect the unity of my church's behavior.

Philippians 4:8, Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

• By filling my mind with the best.
• By being an encouragement.
• By shutting down gossip.

3.  I will protect the unity of my church's body.

Ephesians 4:1-3, I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

• By giving the benefit of the doubt.
• By forgiving offenses.
• By expressing tough love.

NEXT STEP:

This week I will pray for opportunities to be a mender of unity.