That They May Be One

THAT THEY MAY BE ONE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 17:20-26

Supporting Texts: Psalm 133:1-3, Ephesians 4:1-6, Colossians 3:12-14, Acts 2:1, Romans 15:5-6

INTRODUCTION:

In His final prayer before the cross, Jesus prayed not only for His disciples but for all future believers — including us. His heartfelt request was for unity: “That they all may be one.” This desire is repeated multiple times in John 17:20–26, highlighting the significance Jesus placed on oneness in the body of Christ.

Unity among believers is not a secondary issue; it is central to the fulfilment of God's mission on earth. The effectiveness of our witness is tied to the love and harmony we demonstrate within the Church. Jesus said that through our unity, the world would believe that the Father sent Him (John 17:21).

This message calls us to examine the depth of our relationships with one another and to realign our hearts with Christ's prayer. Are we living in a way that reflects His love and unity?

1. UNITY IS THE HEART OF JESUS’ PRAYER

Jesus’ deepest desire before the cross was that His followers would be united in heart and spirit.

a) Jesus prayed for future believers (John 17:20)

His vision extended beyond the twelve to everyone who would believe — unity is for the entire Church.

b) Unity reflects the unity of the Trinity (John 17:21)

Jesus prayed that we would be one “as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You.” This sets a divine standard for unity.

c) Unity reveals Christ to the world (John 17:23)

Our oneness is evidence to the world that Jesus is truly the Son of God.

d) Disunity hinders our witness (1 Corinthians 3:3)

Where there is strife, our testimony is weakened, and God's presence is limited.

Biblical Example: The early Church in Acts 2:1 was united in one accord, and the Holy Spirit was poured out in power.

2. UNITY REQUIRES SPIRITUAL MATURITY

True unity doesn’t mean uniformity; it means embracing our differences with love and grace.

a) Humility is the foundation of unity (Ephesians 4:2)

We must be willing to lay aside pride and self-interest for the sake of the body.

b) Patience and forbearance build bridges (Colossians 3:13)

Unity is maintained when we choose to forgive and bear with one another.

c) Love binds everything together (Colossians 3:14)

Without love, unity is superficial. Love is the glue of the body of Christ.

d) Spiritual maturity fosters peace (Hebrews 12:14)

Peacemakers build the Church; troublemakers tear it down.

Biblical Example: Paul and Barnabas initially disagreed over John Mark, but later reconciled, showing spiritual growth and unity (Acts 15:36-40; 2 Timothy 4:11).

3. UNITY ATTRACTS GOD’S GLORY AND PRESENCE

There is a divine connection between unity and the manifestation of God’s glory.

a) Jesus said He gave us His glory for unity (John 17:22)

The glory of God enables us to live beyond ourselves and unite as one.

b) God’s presence dwells in unity (Psalm 133:1-3)

When brethren dwell together in unity, God commands a blessing.

c) Revival thrives in a united church (Acts 4:32-33)

The early believers were of one heart and one soul, and great grace was upon them.

d) Disunity repels God’s glory (1 Samuel 4:21)

When strife prevails, the glory departs from the house of God.

Biblical Example: In 2 Chronicles 5:13-14, the temple was filled with God’s glory when the people were united in praise.

4. UNITY IS A TESTIMONY OF GOD’S LOVE

When believers are united in love, the world sees the love of God in action.

a) Love is the mark of true discipleship (John 13:35)

Unity proves our love and obedience to Christ’s command.

b) Unity shows that God’s love is in us (John 17:26)

Jesus wants His love to dwell in us, binding us together in harmony.

c) The Church should reflect heaven on earth (Revelation 7:9)

A diverse yet united people standing together in worship.

d) Unity draws others to Christ (John 12:32)

When we are united, Jesus is lifted up, and He draws people to Himself.

Biblical Example: The unity of the early Church broke social, economic, and ethnic barriers, leading to explosive growth (Acts 2:42-47).

CONCLUSION:

Jesus’ final prayer was not about miracles, provision, or even protection — it was about unity. That shows us how crucial it is in the mind of God. The Church today must embrace the call to be one as the Father and Son are one. Division and strife are weapons of the enemy to rob us of power and purpose.

As we align ourselves with Christ’s prayer, choosing humility, love, and maturity, we will experience deeper fellowship with God and each other. We will also become more effective in reaching the world with the gospel. Let us commit to making Jesus’ prayer our lifestyle — that we may be one.