UNITY AMONG GOD’S PEOPLE
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Joshua 22:10-12
Key Verse: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.” (Psalm 133:1)
Supporting Texts: Ephesians 4:3; Romans 12:16; John 17:21; Colossians 3:14
INTRODUCTION:
Unity is one of the most powerful forces in the Kingdom of God. When believers are united in purpose and love, God’s presence and blessings rest upon them. The Bible repeatedly emphasizes that harmony among God’s people is not optional—it is essential for His glory to manifest.
In Joshua 22, a misunderstanding almost tore Israel apart when the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an altar near the Jordan. Their brethren thought it was rebellion, but through dialogue, peace was restored. This teaches us that unity must be guarded diligently through understanding, communication, and mutual respect.
The enemy thrives on division because a divided church cannot stand. However, when God’s people walk in unity, the gates of hell cannot prevail against them.
1. THE POWER OF UNITY
Unity brings divine strength, protection, and blessings upon God’s people.
a) Unity attracts God’s presence (Psalm 133:1-3): When believers dwell in harmony, God commands His blessings.
b) Unity brings victory (Genesis 11:6): Even ungodly people achieved great things through unity; how much more the church!
c) Unity strengthens the Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12): Every believer is a vital part of one body.
d) Unity silences the enemy (Philippians 1:27-28): When we stand together, the adversary loses ground.
Biblical Example: The early church in Acts 2 was united in prayer and purpose, and God added to their number daily.
2. THE DANGER OF DIVISION
Division weakens the church, destroys relationships, and hinders the move of God.
a) Division opens the door to strife (James 3:16): Where there is envy and strife, confusion abounds.
b) Division quenches the Spirit (Ephesians 4:30-32): Bitterness and anger grieve the Holy Spirit.
c) Division blocks prayers (Matthew 5:23–24): God requires reconciliation before worship.
d) Division discredits the gospel (John 13:35): The world believes our message through our love for one another.
Biblical Example: The conflict between Paul and Barnabas (Acts 15:36-39) shows how disagreements can hinder ministry.
3. RESTORING BROKEN RELATIONSHIPS
True unity is restored through humility, forgiveness, and open communication.
a) Seek understanding before judging (Proverbs 18:13): Quick conclusions cause strife.
b) Embrace humility and forgiveness (Colossians 3:13): Forgive as Christ forgave you.
c) Choose dialogue over division (Matthew 18:15-17): Discuss issues in love rather than spreading discord.
d) Let love lead (1 Peter 4:8): Love covers a multitude of sins.
Biblical Example: Joseph forgave his brothers (Genesis 50:20-21), turning betrayal into blessing.
4. GUARDING THE UNITY OF THE SPIRIT
Maintaining unity requires continual effort, maturity, and the help of the Holy Spirit.
a) Walk worthy of your calling (Ephesians 4:1-3): Be patient, gentle, and forbearing in love.
b) Focus on the mission, not personal differences (Philippians 2:2-4): Seek the good of others above your own.
c) Pray for one another (James 5:16): Intercession builds love and understanding.
d) Be led by the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-25): The Spirit produces peace and self-control that sustain unity.
Biblical Example: Jesus prayed for the unity of His followers in John 17, demonstrating its importance to the Father.
CONCLUSION:
Unity is not automatic; it is cultivated through intentional love, humility, and forgiveness. When believers guard against misunderstanding and work together in harmony, the church becomes unstoppable. God’s glory is revealed when His people walk as one body under one Spirit and one Lord.
Let us choose to be peacemakers, bridge builders, and vessels of reconciliation in our homes, churches, and communities.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, thank You for making me a part of the Body of Christ.
2. Father, forgive me for any way I have contributed to division in Your house.
3. Lord, baptize me with the spirit of humility and love toward others.
4. Every spirit of misunderstanding in my relationships, be broken in Jesus’ name.
5. Lord, make me an agent of peace and reconciliation in Your church.
6. Father, unite our hearts to serve You with one purpose and one voice.
7. Every satanic agenda to divide the Body of Christ, be destroyed by fire.
8. Lord, restore every broken relationship in families and the church.
9. Give me grace to walk in love, even when I am offended.
10. Lord, let Your glory rest upon us as we walk together in unity.
