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Key Scripture: “Being diligent to preserve the oneness of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”—Ephesians 4:3 (UASV).

The early Christian congregation experienced remarkable growth, both in numbers and diversity. As the gospel spread, people from different backgrounds and cultures embraced the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. This rapid expansion presented a unique challenge: maintaining the oneness of the Spirit among believers. The apostle Paul recognized the importance of unity and penned his letter to the Ephesians, emphasizing the need to preserve this oneness for the sake of the church’s mission.

Prepared to Make Disciples

In Ephesians 4:3, Paul exhorts believers to be diligent in preserving the oneness of the Spirit. This unity is crucial for the church’s effectiveness in making disciples of all nations, as Jesus commanded in Matthew 28:19-20. The oneness of the Spirit empowers believers to work together harmoniously, utilizing their diverse gifts and talents for the edification of the body of Christ.

Strengthened to Face Opposition

The oneness of the Spirit also serves as a source of strength when faced with opposition. In Ephesians 6:10-12, Paul reminds believers that their struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces. When united in the Spirit, the church stands firm against the schemes of the devil. Unity fosters support, encouragement, and prayer, equipping believers to withstand the challenges that come their way.

Winning Souls Out of Satan’s World for Christ’s Return

The oneness of the Spirit is closely tied to the mission of winning souls for Christ’s return. In John 17:20-21, Jesus prayed for the unity of believers, stating, “that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” The visible unity of Christians, both within local congregations and across denominations, testifies to the truth of the gospel and draws people to Christ.

How Does God Safeguard the Oneness of His Servants?

God plays an active role in safeguarding the oneness of His servants. He accomplishes this through the work of the Holy Spirit, who dwells within every believer. Ephesians 4:4-6 highlights the foundation of our unity: “There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” It is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit that unites believers into one body, regardless of their diverse backgrounds.

How to Bring Christian Oneness to the Church

To cultivate Christian oneness within the church, believers should embrace certain principles and practices. First and foremost, humility and mutual love are essential. Philippians 2:2-3 encourages believers to be of the same mind, having the same love, and being in full accord and of one mind. This requires selflessness, valuing others above oneself, and seeking the interests of others.

Additionally, open communication and forgiveness are crucial. Ephesians 4:2-3 encourages believers to bear with one another in love, maintaining the bond of peace. When conflicts arise, a spirit of forgiveness and reconciliation should prevail, reflecting the forgiveness we have received from God through Christ.

Bible Principles for Cultivating Oneness

The Bible offers several principles that contribute to the cultivation of oneness within the church. Romans 12:16 urges believers to live in harmony with one another, not being haughty but associating with the lowly. Galatians 5:13 emphasizes the importance of serving one another through love. Colossians 3:14-15 instructs believers to put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony, and to let the peace of Christ rule in their hearts.

Furthermore, Ephesians 4:32 encourages believers to be kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving toward one another, just as God in Christ forgave them. This attitude of grace and mercy fosters unity and reconciliation.

Prayer also plays a vital role in cultivating oneness. Jesus prayed for unity among believers in John 17:21, and in Philippians 4:6-7, Paul urges believers to pray with thanksgiving, presenting their requests to God. Seeking God’s guidance and wisdom through prayer strengthens the bond of unity within the church.

Lastly, the study and application of God’s Word are essential for fostering oneness. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 teaches that Scripture is profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness. By grounding themselves in the truth of God’s Word and allowing it to transform their lives, believers align themselves with the mind of Christ, promoting unity within the body.

In conclusion, the oneness of the Spirit is a vital aspect of the Christian faith, especially in the context of a rapidly growing church. It equips believers to fulfill their mission of making disciples, strengthens them to face opposition, and serves as a testimony to the world. Through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and the practice of humility, love, forgiveness, and prayer, believers can safeguard and cultivate oneness within the church. As we strive for unity, may we always remember the words of Psalm 133:1, “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!”

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).