In Galatians 5 and 6, Paul expresses his concern for unity in the Church.

Unity of Mind
  • If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other. (5:15)
  • The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like... (5:19-21)
Social Unity (care for ourselves and for others)
  • Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. [...] for each one should carry their own load. (6:2, 5)
  • Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. (6:1)
  • Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else (6:4)
The Source of Unity

The source of unity is reflected in the fruits of the Spirit:

  • Gentleness- Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. (6:1)
  • Love- Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. (6:2)
  • Self-control- Each one should test their own actions. (6:4)
  • Goodness- Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor. (6:6)
  • Patience- Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (6:9)

The one thing that unifies Christians in both mind and action is the love of Jesus on the cross. Jesus prayed that his followers would be one, because then the world would know that the Father sent Jesus ("I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one—I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me." John 17:22-23).

Application
  • Centre your minds around the Good News
  • Love each other in practical ways
 
Discussion Questions for Small Groups
  1. What situations or experiences have you encountered where differences of opinion or perspective resulted in division or tension among a group?
  2. Considering the diverse denominations and interpretations within Christianity, how can we maintain unity in Christ while respecting and embracing the diversity of beliefs and practices among Christians?
  3. What do you think are the pros and cons of both Christian denominationalism and non-denominationalism?
  4. The early Church ate meals together. Nelson Mandela used rugby to help unify South Africa. What are some practical ways unity is already being fostered at Runnymede? What initiatives would you like to see?

 

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