Divided or United? By Major Frank Materu
----Main Scripture:
“Be thankful that you can be united with others who are seeking Me and by the same find the joy and the peace that I intend for them to walk in and find the joy that I provide.” (Ephesians 4:3)
----Introduction
In a world where division often reigns, especially among those who are supposed to be united in faith, it is crucial for believers to remember that God never intended for His people to be divided. In fact, His desire is for His followers to be united in spirit, striving together towards a common goal of glorifying His name and advancing His Kingdom. The dangers of division and the forces that drive it—pride, jealousy, and demonic influence—are significant, but through God's grace, unity can be achieved when we align ourselves with His purposes.
----The Call to Unity
Unity among believers is not only a beautiful expression of faith, but it is also a reflection of God's will for His Church. The Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of unity in the body of Christ, urging believers to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). This unity is not about compromising truth, but about coming together in a spirit of love, mutual respect, and devotion to God.
As believers, we are called to look beyond denominational labels and to focus on what truly matters—the promotion of God's Kingdom. The enemy, however, seeks to divide the body of Christ, often using pride and selfish ambition to drive wedges between believers. This divisiveness has caused great harm to the body of Christ, preventing the Church from fulfilling its true calling.
----The Dangers of Division
Many false messengers come to sow discord, spreading teachings that serve their own agendas rather than promoting God's truth. These individuals are often driven by carnal desires, seeking recognition and power. In their pursuit of personal gain, they stir up strife and contention among believers, causing divisions where there should be none.
The effects of division are far-reaching and destructive. Not only does it hinder the growth of the Church, but it also damages relationships, fosters mistrust, and makes it difficult for believers to work together to fulfill God's mission. The demonic forces behind such division are powerful, and unless believers are alert and discerning, they may fall prey to these schemes. “For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.” (James 3:16)
----True Unity in Christ
True unity is found in the alignment of our hearts and minds with God's will. It is not about elevating ourselves or promoting our own interests, but about submitting to the purposes of God's Kingdom. As believers, we are called to promote God's Kingdom, not our own. “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33). True followers of Christ will be more interested in advancing His purposes than in promoting denominational differences.
Those who are truly consecrated to God's service will recognize the importance of unity and will strive to live in harmony with other believers who are committed to the same truth. The goal is not to elevate one group over another, but to unite as one body in Christ, working together to fulfill the mission He has set before us. “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called.” (Ephesians 4:4)
----The Spirit's Role in Unity
The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in bringing unity to the body of Christ. When we allow the Spirit to guide us, we are united in our purpose and in our mission. The Spirit helps us to see beyond our differences and to focus on what unites us—our love for God and our commitment to His Kingdom. As we submit to the leading of the Spirit, we find ourselves in harmony with other believers, working together to fulfill God's purposes. “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3)
----Summary
The Church is called to be united, not divided. Division causes strife, disrupts the work of God, and hinders the growth of the body of Christ. False teachings and carnal ambitions have led to unnecessary separations among believers, but true unity can be achieved when we align ourselves with God's will. As believers, we must focus on promoting God's Kingdom, not our own agendas. By doing so, we will experience the joy, peace, and fulfillment that come from working together in unity. “How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1)
----Conclusion
Let us commit to walking in unity with other true believers, putting aside our differences and focusing on our common purpose—glorifying God and advancing His Kingdom. The enemy will always seek to sow division, but we must remain vigilant, discerning, and focused on the truth. As we do so, we will experience the joy and peace that come from being united in Christ, working together for His glory. Let us lift up Jesus, not ourselves, and find joy in seeing others glorify Him as well. “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.” (Hebrews 12:2). The way to unity is the Spirit's way, and as we follow Him, we will be united with Christ and with one another.
----Closing Prayer
Lord, we thank You for the unity we have in Christ. Help us to focus on Your will and not on our own ambitions. Give us the strength to overcome division and to work together in harmony for the advancement of Your Kingdom. May we always seek to glorify You and promote Your purposes, rather than our own. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
