Oneness In The Church

by Pastor Mark
August 19, 2021

The challenge of being one

Oneness was a vital feature of the Jerusalem church. By being one, the Apostles were able to fulfil the work that the Lord had called them to do. But this oneness was not something that they always had. During their training years, the Apostles struggled with being one with each other as they were more concerned with their selfish ambitions. Even towards the end of the Lord’s ministry, they were still disputing among themselves as to who was the greatest (Luke 22:24). There was no sense of oneness. We recognise how challenging it is to have oneness.

Today, we observe how some countries continue to be deeply divided. Even in churches, there are divisions among the leaders and their brethren. Many tend to follow their spirit and intentions, which may result in factions and schisms. Let us guard against such disunity.

In one accord

When the Jerusalem church began, the Apostles and the brethren displayed a great sense of oneness. It was a special phenomenon that happened due to the outpouring of the Spirit of God into the church. They were continuing steadfastly in the Apostles’ doctrine and fellowship (Acts 2:42). They were breaking bread together (Acts 2:42). As a church, they came together to pray (Acts 2:42). Luke wrote of the oneness of the church, “So continuing daily with one accord in the temple.” (Acts 2:46) They ministered together with one accord. It was only through the involvement of the Spirit of God that the church was able to have this special sense of oneness. How should we understand this idea of oneness?

Oneness that is multi-faceted

An insight that the Apostle Paul wrote about to the Ephesian church is that oneness is multi-faceted (Eph 4:4–6). He lists for us seven facets for us to understand and appreciate.

  1. One body…the body of Christ in which both Jews and Gentiles are joined as one in peace
  2. One Spirit…the same Spirit who fills all believers and builds us together as one
  3. One hope…the same hope of our calling in Christ who promises us a glorious future
  4. One Lord…the same Lord Jesus whom we worship, honour and obey
  5. One faith…the same faith both in terms of content and a personal faith that is strong and vibrant to face the challenges of life
  6. One baptism…the same baptism that is given to all who profess faith in the Lord Jesus
  7. One God and Father…the same Father who blesses us richly and relates to us personally

Let us be conscious of all these seven aspects to keep our oneness as a church.

Unity of the Spirit

The Apostle Paul was concerned about the many things that threatened the unity of the church. False teachings, returning to the old ways, and worldly encroachments were some of these threats. Paul gave a call to practise oneness, “endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” (Eph 4:3) The Greek word for “endeavouring” is “spoudázō” which means “diligence”. We are to be diligent in keeping this unity of the Spirit. If we seek to be filled and led by the Spirit of God, He will bring about unity among us as a church.

As we look ahead to celebrating Bethany’s 48th Anniversary, we thank God for our oneness as a church. The Spirit of God has led our leaders and brethren to minister together as one over the years. But this oneness can be quickly lost. Let us be challenged to seek the filling of the Holy Spirit. Let us endeavour to keep the unity of the Spirit of God in Bethany.

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