Understand and embrace the unity in diversity within the Church, as each member has a unique role to play in the Body of Christ, just like the different parts of a physical body.
Good morning, family. Today, we will explore the profound message in 1 Corinthians 12:12-31, which talks about the unity of Jesus' Body, the power of diversity, and the bond of deep friendship.
But before we delve into the Word, let's begin with a quote from A.W Tozer, "Has it ever occurred to you that one hundred pianos all tuned to the same fork are automatically tuned to each other? They are of one accord by being tuned, not to each other, but to another standard to which each one must individually bow. So one hundred worshipers met together, each one looking away to Christ, are in heart nearer to each other than they could possibly be, were they to become 'unity' conscious and turn their eyes away from God to strive for closer fellowship." This is a powerful illustration of how we, as the body of Christ, are tuned and united, not by our own powers, but by aligning ourselves with the divine standard of Christ.
The unity of Jesus' body is not a mere concept or an abstract idea, but a living, breathing reality that is meant to be experienced and manifested in the life of every believer and the church as a whole. When Paul wrote to the Corinthians, he was addressing a church that was divided and fragmented. They had allowed their differences to create divisions among them, leading to disunity and strife. But Paul, drawing from the metaphor of a human body, emphasized that just as a body is one, yet has many parts, so it is with Christ.
The human body: It’s a marvel of unity and diversity. It is composed of different parts, each with its own function and purpose. Yet, all these parts are interconnected and work together in harmony to make the body function as a whole. This is the kind of unity that Paul is talking about. It is not uniformity where everyone looks the same, thinks the same, or does the same things. Rather, it is a unity that celebrates diversity, values individuality, and promotes cooperation and mutual dependency.
The Body of Christ: Each one of us is a unique and indispensable part. We have been given different gifts, talents, and abilities, not for our own benefit, but for the common good. We are meant to use these gifts to serve one another and build up the Body of Christ. This is where the beauty of unity in diversity comes to light. When we each play our part, using our gifts to serve one another in love, we reflect the unity of the Body of Christ.
Belonging and identity: When we become believers, we are not just added to a religious organization or a social club. We are incorporated into Christ Himself. We become part of His Body. This means that we share in His life, His mission, and His destiny. We are united with Him and with each other in a bond that is stronger than any human relationship. This unity gives us a sense of belonging, identity, and purpose that transcends our individuality and personal ambitions.
Not automatic or easy: It requires intentionality, effort, and sacrifice. We must be willing to lay aside our personal preferences, ambitions, and prejudices for the sake of unity. We must be willing to forgive, bear with one another, and pursue peace. We must be committed to love one another as Christ has loved us. This is the kind of unity that Jesus prayed for in John 17 when He asked the Father that we may be one as He and the Father are one.
The power of diversity is a principle that is illustrated in the metaphor of the body of Christ ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO
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