Ephesians 4:1-6 Sermon

Ephesians 4:1–6 ESV

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 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.

Point of Sermon

Living a Vibrant Christian Life with the People of God

Purpose of this Passage?

To maintain unity/ oneness

Main Question

How does a vibrant Christian life with the People of God UNLOCK the Christian/ Human Experience

Questions

In general who are the people of God?

What are the people of God called to? / What is our calling?

How do we do what we be called to?

Why must we do it? Why is it Important? Why do we do it with the people of God?

What is the one hope that BELONGS to the CALL? - Our hope is in the finished work of Christ

Why was one so important? - could this be a Judeo issue of polytheistic thinking????

Observations

Jesus speaking of oneness in John 17

Bible verses on unity/ staying together/ being one

Missional theology is an outworking of “the good news of God’s love, incarnated in the witness of a community, for the sake of the world.”18 Therefore the practice of theology from a missional perspective has as its goal “not only greater knowledge of God and God’s purposes but more reflective and intelligent participation in those purposes.”19 Of particular importance in the understanding and living out of God’s purposes in the world is the call to love one another in response to the love of God: “Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us” (1 Jn 4:11–12 niv).

"you" is the church of Ephesus, the people of God. there is distinction here, because this is not a message for everyone but for God's people.

The people of God are being urged/ compelled to

Paul uses the word "one" 8 times in the 6 verses

Paul tells us we are to walk in the manner/ way of our calling by 1. Humilty and gentleness 2. Patience 3. Bearing with one another in love 4. Be EAGER to maintain the UNITY of the Spirit in the bond of peace. ( I think he is saying we maintain the things of God by allowing the HS to show us the way of God and love will hold it all together- is love peace?? Colossians 3:14 )

Other Scripture

Colossians 3:11

Colossians 1:16

Romans 9:5

1 Corinthians 12:5-6

4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call. The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Eph 4:4.

Romans 12:5 talks about being one body in Christ and gifts. Ephesians 2:22 is whee he talks about being built together.

The one spirit Spirit is referenced at 1 Corinthians 12:13 and Philippians 1:27 (this passage also refences the manner)

Colossians 1:10 (greek word for walk is the pace of Jesus and how we are to go about our mission), 1 Thessalonians 2:12 also talks about walkin in a manner

Our differences are necessary and are welcomed under Christ. he is the main thing.

Language Work

one= single unit

unity= oneness

bond

Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians & Colossians Ephesians 4:2

4:2. After calling us to walk (live) worthy of our calling in Christ, Paul describes the character qualities of the person who lives as a prisoner of Christ.

This is the same walk that Jesus goes at.

Conduct ones life like Jesus was on mission at a walking pace

Interpretation/ Hunch

I think the church/ the people of God are called to express his perfect love as our mission by sharing the gospel which tells of God love for the earth.

God's people should be the best example of unity, but instead we seem to be the best example of division. Some of the people God has called me to love the hardest dont look like me, dont think like me, dont like the things i like, didnt have the same upbringing I had

We will be see whether for good or for bad for we are a city on a hill we cannot be hidden. Shouldnt our example/ mission be one fo the creator instead of the ruler of this world. (Matthew 5:14 )

When we we express Gods love in unity we mature into the fullness of who we are supposed to be, which strengthens and stabilizes us against every wind of opinion, man trying to achieve their own end, deceitful schemes. (Ephesians 4:12-16 )

There's something about doing stuff together. Every event I've ever gone to men's events, every Nation conferences, the campus you guys went probably experience something amazing when I was in college seeing all those young people together it's transformative since I belong somewhere and I believe people always trying to belong but we never quite fit like circles in a square peg or triangle peg we were designed to fit with God's people.

You can be around a lot of people, have friends, and still be lonely

We as humans are deeply wired for relationship but in the West we have a very individualized thought and it affects not just our relationships but how we treat others and what we think of others.

Know someone who is just eager to be perfect in Christ already. Can I just skip pst the work and hard stuff. i often time just think of my workout routine and wish cant I just click a button and look like Chris Hemsworth.

Language/ culture/ money barriers can create tension

Ephesians 4:3 ESV

eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

John 13:35 our example to the world

Our nation to see love, and unity because they are intent on ripping themselves apart in the name of their forced unity

Exhortation

You might be thinking well I'm giving my life to Christ I'm trying this Christian thing out but it doesn't seem like there's any benefits. I mean the holy Spirit is amazing Jesus is great what does that do for my everyday. Well we're to do it with others who have called. A vibrant Christian Life is not fulfilled or even seen in solidarity. The missing piece to your Christian experience is unlocked when you are in life with the Christian body. Something about Sunday mornings even for an introvert when I see all these people and I hear all the stories if something electrifying in this room with all the people of God singing hallelujah that lifts my soul is my spirit.

Unity of God’s people

Synopsis

A distinguishing characteristic of God’s people, which derives from their common relationship with God, and is expressed in commitment to one another, mutual concern, concerted action and harmony within the believing community.

Unity in a common relationship with God

As children of God

Mal 2:10

Malachi 2:10 (ESV) — 10 Have we not all one Father? Has not one God created us? Why then are we faithless to one another, profaning the covenant of our fathers?

See also Ps 133:1; Mt 23:8–9; Ro 8:15–17; Col 1:2; Col 1:12; 1 Jn 5:1

Psalm 133:1 (ESV) — 1 Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!

Matthew 23:8–9 (ESV) — 8 But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all brothers. 9 And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven.

Romans 8:15–17 (ESV) — 15 For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” 16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.

Colossians 1:2 (ESV) — 2 To the saints and faithful brothers in Christ at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father.

Colossians 1:12 (ESV) — 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.

1 John 5:1 (ESV) — 1 Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the Father loves whoever has been born of him.

As the people of God

1 Pe 2:9–10

1 Peter 2:9–10 (ESV) — 9 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

See also Ex 6:7; Ex 19:5–6; Dt 7:6; 2 Sa 7:24; Mal 3:17; Eph 1:14; Heb 11:25

Exodus 6:7 (ESV) — 7 I will take you to be my people, and I will be your God, and you shall know that I am the Lord your God, who has brought you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.

Exodus 19:5–6 (ESV) — 5 Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine; 6 and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you shall speak to the people of Israel.”

Deuteronomy 7:6 (ESV) — 6 “For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for his treasured possession, out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth.

2 Samuel 7:24 (ESV) — 24 And you established for yourself your people Israel to be your people forever. And you, O Lord, became their God.

Malachi 3:17 (ESV) — 17 “They shall be mine, says the Lord of hosts, in the day when I make up my treasured possession, and I will spare them as a man spares his son who serves him.

Ephesians 1:14 (ESV) — 14 who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.

Hebrews 11:25 (ESV) — 25 choosing rather to be mistreated with the people of God than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin.

Unity in a common union with Christ

1 Co 10:16–17

1 Corinthians 10:16–17 (ESV) — 16 The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? 17 Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread.

See also Jn 11:52; Ro 12:4–5; 1 Co 12:12; Ga 3:26–28; Eph 2:17–19; Eph 4:16; Col 3:11

John 11:52 (ESV) — 52 and not for the nation only, but also to gather into one the children of God who are scattered abroad.

Romans 12:4–5 (ESV) — 4 For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, 5 so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.

1 Corinthians 12:12 (ESV) — 12 For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.

Galatians 3:26–28 (ESV) — 26 for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. 27 For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 2:17–19 (ESV) — 17 And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. 19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God,

Ephesians 4:16 (ESV) — 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.

Colossians 3:11 (ESV) — 11 Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all.

Unity through common receiving of the Holy Spirit

1 Co 12:13

1 Corinthians 12:13 (ESV) — 13 For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.

See also Is 34:16; Ac 10:45–47; 1 Co 12:4–11; 2 Co 13:14; Eph 2:22; Heb 6:4

Isaiah 34:16 (ESV) — 16 Seek and read from the book of the Lord: Not one of these shall be missing; none shall be without her mate. For the mouth of the Lord has commanded, and his Spirit has gathered them.

Acts 10:45–47 (ESV) — 45 And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles. 46 For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter declared, 47 “Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?”

1 Corinthians 12:4–11 (ESV) — 4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5 and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; 6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. 7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 8 For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, 10 to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.

2 Corinthians 13:14 (ESV) — 14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

Ephesians 2:22 (ESV) — 22 In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.

Hebrews 6:4 (ESV) — 4 For it is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit,

Unity in a common faith

Eph 4:4–6

Ephesians 4:4–6 (ESV) — 4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

See also Eph 4:13; Tt 1:4; 1 Jn 1:1–3; Jud 3

Ephesians 4:13 (ESV) — 13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ,

Titus 1:4 (ESV) — 4 To Titus, my true child in a common faith: Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior.

1 John 1:1–3 (ESV) — 1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we looked upon and have touched with our hands, concerning the word of life— 2 the life was made manifest, and we have seen it, and testify to it and proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and was made manifest to us— 3 that which we have seen and heard we proclaim also to you, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ.

Jude 3 (ESV) — 3 Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.

Expressions of unity among God’s people

Commitment to one another

1 Sa 18:1–4; Ru 1:16–17; 1 Th 2:8

1 Samuel 18:1–4 (ESV) — 1 As soon as he had finished speaking to Saul, the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. 2 And Saul took him that day and would not let him return to his father’s house. 3 Then Jonathan made a covenant with David, because he loved him as his own soul. 4 And Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that was on him and gave it to David, and his armor, and even his sword and his bow and his belt.

Ruth 1:16–17 (ESV) — 16 But Ruth said, “Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you. For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God. 17 Where you die I will die, and there will I be buried. May the Lord do so to me and more also if anything but death parts me from you.”

1 Thessalonians 2:8 (ESV) — 8 So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.

Sharing possessions

Ac 4:32

Acts 4:32 (ESV) — 32 Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common.

See also Lk 3:11; Ac 2:44–45; Ro 12:13; Ro 15:27; Ga 6:6; 2 Ti 2:6

Luke 3:11 (ESV) — 11 And he answered them, “Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise.”

Acts 2:44–45 (ESV) — 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.

Romans 12:13 (ESV) — 13 Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.

Romans 15:27 (ESV) — 27 For they were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material blessings.

Galatians 6:6 (ESV) — 6 Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches.

2 Timothy 2:6 (ESV) — 6 It is the hard-working farmer who ought to have the first share of the crops.

Giving support

Jos 22:3

Joshua 22:3 (ESV) — 3 You have not forsaken your brothers these many days, down to this day, but have been careful to keep the charge of the Lord your God.

See also Dt 3:18; Heb 10:24–25

Deuteronomy 3:18 (ESV) — 18 “And I commanded you at that time, saying, ‘The Lord your God has given you this land to possess. All your men of valor shall cross over armed before your brothers, the people of Israel.

Hebrews 10:24–25 (ESV) — 24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Sharing troubles

2 Co 1:7; Php 4:14

2 Corinthians 1:7 (ESV) — 7 Our hope for you is unshaken, for we know that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in our comfort.

Philippians 4:14 (ESV) — 14 Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble.

Unity expressed in agreement with one another

Living in harmony

Ps 133:1; Eph 4:3; 1 Pe 3:8

Psalm 133:1 (ESV) — 1 Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!

Ephesians 4:3 (ESV) — 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

1 Peter 3:8 (ESV) — 8 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.

See also Ro 12:16; Ro 14:17; 1 Co 10:24; Eph 4:25; Php 4:2; Col 1:12–14; Col 3:15

Romans 12:16 (ESV) — 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.

Romans 14:17 (ESV) — 17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

1 Corinthians 10:24 (ESV) — 24 Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor.

Ephesians 4:25 (ESV) — 25 Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another.

Philippians 4:2 (ESV) — 2 I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord.

Colossians 1:12–14 (ESV) — 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. 13 He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

Colossians 3:15 (ESV) — 15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.

United in purpose

Php 1:27

Philippians 1:27 (ESV) — 27 Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel,

See also Jdg 20:11; 1 Sa 14:7; Ezr 3:8–10; Ne 4:6; Mt 18:19–20

Judges 20:11 (ESV) — 11 So all the men of Israel gathered against the city, united as one man.

1 Samuel 14:7 (ESV) — 7 And his armor-bearer said to him, “Do all that is in your heart. Do as you wish. Behold, I am with you heart and soul.”

Ezra 3:8–10 (ESV) — 8 Now in the second year after their coming to the house of God at Jerusalem, in the second month, Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel and Jeshua the son of Jozadak made a beginning, together with the rest of their kinsmen, the priests and the Levites and all who had come to Jerusalem from the captivity. They appointed the Levites, from twenty years old and upward, to supervise the work of the house of the Lord. 9 And Jeshua with his sons and his brothers, and Kadmiel and his sons, the sons of Judah, together supervised the workmen in the house of God, along with the sons of Henadad and the Levites, their sons and brothers. 10 And when the builders laid the foundation of the temple of the Lord, the priests in their vestments came forward with trumpets, and the Levites, the sons of Asaph, with cymbals, to praise the Lord, according to the directions of David king of Israel.

Nehemiah 4:6 (ESV) — 6 So we built the wall. And all the wall was joined together to half its height, for the people had a mind to work.

Matthew 18:19–20 (ESV) — 19 Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”

Of one mind

1 Co 1:10

1 Corinthians 1:10 (ESV) — 10 I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.

See also 2 Ch 30:12; Php 2:2

2 Chronicles 30:12 (ESV) — 12 The hand of God was also on Judah to give them one heart to do what the king and the princes commanded by the word of the Lord.

Philippians 2:2 (ESV) — 2 complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.

Unity expressed in worshipping together

Ro 15:5–6

Romans 15:5–6 (ESV) — 5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, 6 that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

See also Ps 22:22; Ps 68:26; Ps 122:1; 1 Co 14:26; Heb 2:12

Psalm 22:22 (ESV) — 22 I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will praise you:

Psalm 68:26 (ESV) — 26 “Bless God in the great congregation, the Lord, O you who are of Israel’s fountain!”

Psalm 122:1 (ESV) — 1 I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord!”

1 Corinthians 14:26 (ESV) — 26 What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up.

Hebrews 2:12 (ESV) — 12 saying, “I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will sing your praise.”

Unity marks out God’s people

Jn 17:21–23

John 17:21–23 (ESV) — 21 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. 22 The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.

See also Jn 13:34–35

John 13:34–35 (ESV) — 34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

Unity and fellowship of church

Synopsis

The church is one in essence, because it is founded on one gospel, united to one Lord and indwelt by one Spirit. Its unity is under constant threat because of the tendency to division that is inherent in fallen humanity, and needs to be continually maintained and actively expressed in fellowship.

The unity of the church

The church is one

Ro 12:5

Romans 12:5 (ESV) — 5 so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.

See also 1 Co 12:12; 1 Co 12:20; Eph 4:25

1 Corinthians 12:12 (ESV) — 12 For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.

1 Corinthians 12:20 (ESV) — 20 As it is, there are many parts, yet one body.

Ephesians 4:25 (ESV) — 25 Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another.

The church transcends all barriers

Col 3:11

Colossians 3:11 (ESV) — 11 Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all.

See also Jn 10:16; Ac 10:28–29; Ac 10:47; Ac 15:8–9; Ga 3:28; Eph 2:14–16; Eph 3:6 The great divide threatening the first Christians was between Jew and Gentile, but the church was able to unite the two into one body in Christ.

John 10:16 (ESV) — 16 And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd.

Acts 10:28–29 (ESV) — 28 And he said to them, “You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a Jew to associate with or to visit anyone of another nation, but God has shown me that I should not call any person common or unclean. 29 So when I was sent for, I came without objection. I ask then why you sent for me.”

Acts 10:47 (ESV) — 47 “Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?”

Acts 15:8–9 (ESV) — 8 And God, who knows the heart, bore witness to them, by giving them the Holy Spirit just as he did to us, 9 and he made no distinction between us and them, having cleansed their hearts by faith.

Galatians 3:28 (ESV) — 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 2:14–16 (ESV) — 14 For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility 15 by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, 16 and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility.

Ephesians 3:6 (ESV) — 6 This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.

The church’s unity reflects the unity within the Trinity

Eph 4:4–6 The unity of the church is built around the persons of the Trinity: one Spirit, one Lord, one Father.

Ephesians 4:4–6 (ESV) — 4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

See also Jn 17:11; Ro 3:29–30; Ro 10:12–13; Ga 3:27–28

John 17:11 (ESV) — 11 And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are one.

Romans 3:29–30 (ESV) — 29 Or is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles also? Yes, of Gentiles also, 30 since God is one—who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith.

Romans 10:12–13 (ESV) — 12 For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. 13 For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

Galatians 3:27–28 (ESV) — 27 For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

The church’s unity is the work of the Trinity

Eph 2:16–18

Ephesians 2:16–18 (ESV) — 16 and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility. 17 And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father.

See also Jn 11:52; Ac 10:45–47; 1 Co 12:13; Eph 2:22; Eph 4:3

John 11:52 (ESV) — 52 and not for the nation only, but also to gather into one the children of God who are scattered abroad.

Acts 10:45–47 (ESV) — 45 And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles. 46 For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter declared, 47 “Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?”

1 Corinthians 12:13 (ESV) — 13 For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.

Ephesians 2:22 (ESV) — 22 In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.

Ephesians 4:3 (ESV) — 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

The purpose of the church’s unity

To lead others to faith

Jn 17:23

John 17:23 (ESV) — 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.

See also Jn 17:21

John 17:21 (ESV) — 21 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.

To lead believers to maturity

Eph 4:13

Ephesians 4:13 (ESV) — 13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ,

The nature of the church’s unity

Php 2:1–2 Emphasis is placed on an inner unity of mind and spirit rather than external uniformity.

Philippians 2:1–2 (ESV) — 1 So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, 2 complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.

See also 2 Co 13:11; Php 1:27; Col 2:2

2 Corinthians 13:11 (ESV) — 11 Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.

Philippians 1:27 (ESV) — 27 Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel,

Colossians 2:2 (ESV) — 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ,

Appeals for unity in the church

Eph 4:3

Ephesians 4:3 (ESV) — 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

See also Ro 12:10; Ro 15:5; Ro 15:7; 1 Co 12:25; Col 3:14; 1 Pe 3:8

Romans 12:10 (ESV) — 10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.

Romans 15:5 (ESV) — 5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,

Romans 15:7 (ESV) — 7 Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

1 Corinthians 12:25 (ESV) — 25 that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another.

Colossians 3:14 (ESV) — 14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.

1 Peter 3:8 (ESV) — 8 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.

The church’s unity is expressed in fellowship

Fellowship with God

1 Co 1:9

1 Corinthians 1:9 (ESV) — 9 God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

See also 2 Co 13:14; Php 2:1; 2 Pe 1:4; 1 Jn 1:3; 1 Jn 1:6–7

2 Corinthians 13:14 (ESV) — 14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

Philippians 2:1 (ESV) — 1 So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy,

2 Peter 1:4 (ESV) — 4 by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.

1 John 1:3 (ESV) — 3 that which we have seen and heard we proclaim also to you, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ.

1 John 1:6–7 (ESV) — 6 If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.

Fellowship expressed by meeting together

Ac 2:46

Acts 2:46 (ESV) — 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts,

See also Ac 2:1; Ac 2:42; Ac 5:12; Ac 6:2; 1 Co 14:26; Heb 10:25

Acts 2:1 (ESV) — 1 When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place.

Acts 2:42 (ESV) — 42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.

Acts 5:12 (ESV) — 12 Now many signs and wonders were regularly done among the people by the hands of the apostles. And they were all together in Solomon’s Portico.

Acts 6:2 (ESV) — 2 And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables.

1 Corinthians 14:26 (ESV) — 26 What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up.

Hebrews 10:25 (ESV) — 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Fellowship expressed through sharing resources

Ac 2:44–45

Acts 2:44–45 (ESV) — 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.

See also Ac 4:32; Ac 4:34–37; Ac 11:27–30; Ro 15:26; 1 Co 16:1–2; 2 Co 8:2–5; 2 Co 8:13–14; 2 Co 9:13; Php 4:14–18

Acts 4:32 (ESV) — 32 Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common.

Acts 4:34–37 (ESV) — 34 There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold 35 and laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need. 36 Thus Joseph, who was also called by the apostles Barnabas (which means son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus, 37 sold a field that belonged to him and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.

Acts 11:27–30 (ESV) — 27 Now in these days prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 And one of them named Agabus stood up and foretold by the Spirit that there would be a great famine over all the world (this took place in the days of Claudius). 29 So the disciples determined, every one according to his ability, to send relief to the brothers living in Judea. 30 And they did so, sending it to the elders by the hand of Barnabas and Saul.

Romans 15:26 (ESV) — 26 For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem.

1 Corinthians 16:1–2 (ESV) — 1 Now concerning the collection for the saints: as I directed the churches of Galatia, so you also are to do. 2 On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come.

2 Corinthians 8:2–5 (ESV) — 2 for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. 3 For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, 4 begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints— 5 and this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us.

2 Corinthians 8:13–14 (ESV) — 13 For I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened, but that as a matter of fairness 14 your abundance at the present time should supply their need, so that their abundance may supply your need, that there may be fairness.

2 Corinthians 9:13 (ESV) — 13 By their approval of this service, they will glorify God because of your submission that comes from your confession of the gospel of Christ, and the generosity of your contribution for them and for all others,

Philippians 4:14–18 (ESV) — 14 Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. 15 And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. 16 Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. 18 I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God.

Fellowship through suffering

Re 1:9

Revelation 1:9 (ESV) — 9 I, John, your brother and partner in the tribulation and the kingdom and the patient endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos on account of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus.

See also Ro 8:17; 2 Co 1:7; Php 3:10; Php 4:14; Heb 10:33–34; Heb 13:3

Romans 8:17 (ESV) — 17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.

2 Corinthians 1:7 (ESV) — 7 Our hope for you is unshaken, for we know that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in our comfort.

Philippians 3:10 (ESV) — 10 that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,

Philippians 4:14 (ESV) — 14 Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble.

Hebrews 10:33–34 (ESV) — 33 sometimes being publicly exposed to reproach and affliction, and sometimes being partners with those so treated. 34 For you had compassion on those in prison, and you joyfully accepted the plundering of your property, since you knew that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one.

Hebrews 13:3 (ESV) — 3 Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body.

Fellowship through shared spiritual blessings

1 Co 9:23

1 Corinthians 9:23 (ESV) — 23 I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.

See also Ro 11:17; Php 1:7; 2 Th 2:14; 1 Pe 5:1; Jud 3

Romans 11:17 (ESV) — 17 But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, although a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing root of the olive tree,

Philippians 1:7 (ESV) — 7 It is right for me to feel this way about you all, because I hold you in my heart, for you are all partakers with me of grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel.

2 Thessalonians 2:14 (ESV) — 14 To this he called you through our gospel, so that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 5:1 (ESV) — 1 So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed:

Jude 3 (ESV) — 3 Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.

Specific actions which express fellowship and unity in the church

Sharing in the Lord’s Supper

1 Co 10:16–17

1 Corinthians 10:16–17 (ESV) — 16 The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? 17 Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread.

See also Ac 2:46; Ac 20:7; 1 Co 11:33

Acts 2:46 (ESV) — 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts,

Acts 20:7 (ESV) — 7 On the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break bread, Paul talked with them, intending to depart on the next day, and he prolonged his speech until midnight.

1 Corinthians 11:33 (ESV) — 33 So then, my brothers, when you come together to eat, wait for one another—

Baptism as an expression of unity

Eph 4:4–6

Ephesians 4:4–6 (ESV) — 4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

See also 1 Co 12:13

1 Corinthians 12:13 (ESV) — 13 For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.

Extending hospitality

Ac 28:7; Ro 12:13; Ro 16:23; 1 Ti 5:10; Tt 1:8; 1 Pe 4:9; 3 Jn 8

Acts 28:7 (ESV) — 7 Now in the neighborhood of that place were lands belonging to the chief man of the island, named Publius, who received us and entertained us hospitably for three days.

Romans 12:13 (ESV) — 13 Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.

Romans 16:23 (ESV) — 23 Gaius, who is host to me and to the whole church, greets you. Erastus, the city treasurer, and our brother Quartus, greet you.

1 Timothy 5:10 (ESV) — 10 and having a reputation for good works: if she has brought up children, has shown hospitality, has washed the feet of the saints, has cared for the afflicted, and has devoted herself to every good work.

Titus 1:8 (ESV) — 8 but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined.

1 Peter 4:9 (ESV) — 9 Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.

3 John 8 (ESV) — 8 Therefore we ought to support people like these, that we may be fellow workers for the truth.

Greeting one another

Ac 18:27; Ro 16:3–16; 1 Co 16:19–20; Col 4:10; Phm 17

Acts 18:27 (ESV) — 27 And when he wished to cross to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples to welcome him. When he arrived, he greatly helped those who through grace had believed,

Romans 16:3–16 (ESV) — 3 Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, 4 who risked their necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks but all the churches of the Gentiles give thanks as well. 5 Greet also the church in their house. Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who was the first convert to Christ in Asia. 6 Greet Mary, who has worked hard for you. 7 Greet Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen and my fellow prisoners. They are well known to the apostles, and they were in Christ before me. 8 Greet Ampliatus, my beloved in the Lord. 9 Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and my beloved Stachys. 10 Greet Apelles, who is approved in Christ. Greet those who belong to the family of Aristobulus. 11 Greet my kinsman Herodion. Greet those in the Lord who belong to the family of Narcissus. 12 Greet those workers in the Lord, Tryphaena and Tryphosa. Greet the beloved Persis, who has worked hard in the Lord. 13 Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord; also his mother, who has been a mother to me as well. 14 Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas, and the brothers who are with them. 15 Greet Philologus, Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them. 16 Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ greet you.

1 Corinthians 16:19–20 (ESV) — 19 The churches of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Prisca, together with the church in their house, send you hearty greetings in the Lord. 20 All the brothers send you greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss.

Colossians 4:10 (ESV) — 10 Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, and Mark the cousin of Barnabas (concerning whom you have received instructions—if he comes to you, welcome him),

Philemon 17 (ESV) — 17 So if you consider me your partner, receive him as you would receive me.

Welcoming former opponents

Ac 9:26–27; Ga 2:9; 2 Co 2:5–8

Acts 9:26–27 (ESV) — 26 And when he had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples. And they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles and declared to them how on the road he had seen the Lord, who spoke to him, and how at Damascus he had preached boldly in the name of Jesus.

Galatians 2:9 (ESV) — 9 and when James and Cephas and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given to me, they gave the right hand of fellowship to Barnabas and me, that we should go to the Gentiles and they to the circumcised.

2 Corinthians 2:5–8 (ESV) — 5 Now if anyone has caused pain, he has caused it not to me, but in some measure—not to put it too severely—to all of you. 6 For such a one, this punishment by the majority is enough, 7 so you should rather turn to forgive and comfort him, or he may be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. 8 So I beg you to reaffirm your love for him.

Divisions in the church

Causes of division in the NT church

Personal ambition:

Mk 9:34; Mk 10:35–41

Mark 9:34 (ESV) — 34 But they kept silent, for on the way they had argued with one another about who was the greatest.

Mark 10:35–41 (ESV) — 35 And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came up to him and said to him, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you.” 36 And he said to them, “What do you want me to do for you?” 37 And they said to him, “Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory.” 38 Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?” 39 And they said to him, “We are able.” And Jesus said to them, “The cup that I drink you will drink, and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized, 40 but to sit at my right hand or at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared.” 41 And when the ten heard it, they began to be indignant at James and John.

Ethnic tension:

Ac 6:1

Acts 6:1 (ESV) — 1 Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution.

Differences of opinion:

Ac 15:37–40; Php 4:2

Acts 15:37–40 (ESV) — 37 Now Barnabas wanted to take with them John called Mark. 38 But Paul thought best not to take with them one who had withdrawn from them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to the work. 39 And there arose a sharp disagreement, so that they separated from each other. Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus, 40 but Paul chose Silas and departed, having been commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord.

Philippians 4:2 (ESV) — 2 I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord.

Troublesome heretical leaders:

Ro 16:17; Jud 19

Romans 16:17 (ESV) — 17 I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.

Jude 19 (ESV) — 19 It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit.

Partisan spirit:

1 Co 1:11–12; 1 Co 3:3–4

1 Corinthians 1:11–12 (ESV) — 11 For it has been reported to me by Chloe’s people that there is quarreling among you, my brothers. 12 What I mean is that each one of you says, “I follow Paul,” or “I follow Apollos,” or “I follow Cephas,” or “I follow Christ.”

1 Corinthians 3:3–4 (ESV) — 3 for you are still of the flesh. For while there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not of the flesh and behaving only in a human way? 4 For when one says, “I follow Paul,” and another, “I follow Apollos,” are you not being merely human?

1 Co 6:1–6 litigation and disputes

1 Corinthians 6:1–6 (ESV) — 1 When one of you has a grievance against another, does he dare go to law before the unrighteous instead of the saints? 2 Or do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world is to be judged by you, are you incompetent to try trivial cases? 3 Do you not know that we are to judge angels? How much more, then, matters pertaining to this life! 4 So if you have such cases, why do you lay them before those who have no standing in the church? 5 I say this to your shame. Can it be that there is no one among you wise enough to settle a dispute between the brothers, 6 but brother goes to law against brother, and that before unbelievers?

Greed:

1 Co 11:18; 1 Co 11:20–21; Jas 4:1–3

1 Corinthians 11:18 (ESV) — 18 For, in the first place, when you come together as a church, I hear that there are divisions among you. And I believe it in part,

1 Corinthians 11:20–21 (ESV) — 20 When you come together, it is not the Lord’s supper that you eat. 21 For in eating, each one goes ahead with his own meal. One goes hungry, another gets drunk.

James 4:1–3 (ESV) — 1 What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you? 2 You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask. 3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.

Warnings against divisions in the church

1 Co 1:10

1 Corinthians 1:10 (ESV) — 10 I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.

See also Ro 12:16; Ro 16:17; 2 Co 12:20; Eph 4:31; Jas 4:11

Romans 12:16 (ESV) — 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.

Romans 16:17 (ESV) — 17 I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.

2 Corinthians 12:20 (ESV) — 20 For I fear that perhaps when I come I may find you not as I wish, and that you may find me not as you wish—that perhaps there may be quarreling, jealousy, anger, hostility, slander, gossip, conceit, and disorder.

Ephesians 4:31 (ESV) — 31 Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.

James 4:11 (ESV) — 11 Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge.

Acceptable differences in the church

In secondary matters of conscience, Christians are to respect rather than judge each other. These things need not impair the essential unity that is in Christ:

Ro 14:1–3; Ro 14:5–6; 1 Co 8:9–13

Romans 14:1–3 (ESV) — 1 As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions. 2 One person believes he may eat anything, while the weak person eats only vegetables. 3 Let not the one who eats despise the one who abstains, and let not the one who abstains pass judgment on the one who eats, for God has welcomed him.

Romans 14:5–6 (ESV) — 5 One person esteems one day as better than another, while another esteems all days alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. 6 The one who observes the day, observes it in honor of the Lord. The one who eats, eats in honor of the Lord, since he gives thanks to God, while the one who abstains, abstains in honor of the Lord and gives thanks to God.

1 Corinthians 8:9–13 (ESV) — 9 But take care that this right of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak. 10 For if anyone sees you who have knowledge eating in an idol’s temple, will he not be encouraged, if his conscience is weak, to eat food offered to idols? 11 And so by your knowledge this weak person is destroyed, the brother for whom Christ died. 12 Thus, sinning against your brothers and wounding their conscience when it is weak, you sin against Christ. 13 Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.

In varieties of spiritual gifts:

1 Co 12:4–6; 1 Co 12:14–25; Ga 2:7

1 Corinthians 12:4–6 (ESV) — 4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5 and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; 6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.

1 Corinthians 12:14–25 (ESV) — 14 For the body does not consist of one member but of many. 15 If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. 16 And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. 17 If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? 18 But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. 19 If all were a single member, where would the body be? 20 As it is, there are many parts, yet one body. 21 The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” 22 On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty, 24 which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it, 25 that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another.

Galatians 2:7 (ESV) — 7 On the contrary, when they saw that I had been entrusted with the gospel to the uncircumcised, just as Peter had been entrusted with the gospel to the circumcised

Necessary divisions in the church

Between the true gospel and heretical alternatives:

2 Co 11:2–6; 2 Co 11:13–15; Ga 1:6–9; Col 2:8; Col 2:16–19; 1 Ti 4:1–6; 1 Jn 2:18–19; 2 Jn 9–11; Jud 18–20

2 Corinthians 11:2–6 (ESV) — 2 For I feel a divine jealousy for you, since I betrothed you to one husband, to present you as a pure virgin to Christ. 3 But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ. 4 For if someone comes and proclaims another Jesus than the one we proclaimed, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or if you accept a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it readily enough. 5 Indeed, I consider that I am not in the least inferior to these super-apostles. 6 Even if I am unskilled in speaking, I am not so in knowledge; indeed, in every way we have made this plain to you in all things.

2 Corinthians 11:13–15 (ESV) — 13 For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. 15 So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.

Galatians 1:6–9 (ESV) — 6 I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— 7 not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. 9 As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.

Colossians 2:8 (ESV) — 8 See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.

Colossians 2:16–19 (ESV) — 16 Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. 17 These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ. 18 Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism and worship of angels, going on in detail about visions, puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind, 19 and not holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body, nourished and knit together through its joints and ligaments, grows with a growth that is from God.

1 Timothy 4:1–6 (ESV) — 1 Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, 2 through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared, 3 who forbid marriage and require abstinence from foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. 4 For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, 5 for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer. 6 If you put these things before the brothers, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine that you have followed.

1 John 2:18–19 (ESV) — 18 Children, it is the last hour, and as you have heard that antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have come. Therefore we know that it is the last hour. 19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us.

2 John 9–11 (ESV) — 9 Everyone who goes on ahead and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God. Whoever abides in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. 10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house or give him any greeting, 11 for whoever greets him takes part in his wicked works.

Jude 18–20 (ESV) — 18 They said to you, “In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.” 19 It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit. 20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit,

Between those truly committed to Jesus Christ, and those apparently part of the church but living sinful lives:

1 Co 5:9–10; 2 Th 3:6; 1 Ti 6:3–5; 2 Ti 3:2–9; 2 Pe 1:20–21; 2 Pe 2:1–3; Re 2:20; Re 2:24; Re 3:1; Re 3:4

1 Corinthians 5:9–10 (ESV) — 9 I wrote to you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people— 10 not at all meaning the sexually immoral of this world, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world.

2 Thessalonians 3:6 (ESV) — 6 Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us.

1 Timothy 6:3–5 (ESV) — 3 If anyone teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that accords with godliness, 4 he is puffed up with conceit and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy craving for controversy and for quarrels about words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions, 5 and constant friction among people who are depraved in mind and deprived of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain.

2 Timothy 3:2–9 (ESV) — 2 For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, 4 treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people. 6 For among them are those who creep into households and capture weak women, burdened with sins and led astray by various passions, 7 always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth. 8 Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so these men also oppose the truth, men corrupted in mind and disqualified regarding the faith. 9 But they will not get very far, for their folly will be plain to all, as was that of those two men.

2 Peter 1:20–21 (ESV) — 20 knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. 21 For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

2 Peter 2:1–3 (ESV) — 1 But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction. 2 And many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed. 3 And in their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep.

Revelation 2:20 (ESV) — 20 But I have this against you, that you tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess and is teaching and seducing my servants to practice sexual immorality and to eat food sacrificed to idols.

Revelation 2:24 (ESV) — 24 But to the rest of you in Thyatira, who do not hold this teaching, who have not learned what some call the deep things of Satan, to you I say, I do not lay on you any other burden.

Revelation 3:1 (ESV) — 1 “And to the angel of the church in Sardis write: ‘The words of him who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. “ ‘I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead.

Revelation 3:4 (ESV) — 4 Yet you have still a few names in Sardis, people who have not soiled their garments, and they will walk with me in white, for they are worthy.

Over essential gospel principles:

Ac 15:2; Ac 15:5–6; Ac 15:19; Ga 2:11

Acts 15:2 (ESV) — 2 And after Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and debate with them, Paul and Barnabas and some of the others were appointed to go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and the elders about this question.

Acts 15:5–6 (ESV) — 5 But some believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees rose up and said, “It is necessary to circumcise them and to order them to keep the law of Moses.” 6 The apostles and the elders were gathered together to consider this matter.

Acts 15:19 (ESV) — 19 Therefore my judgment is that we should not trouble those of the Gentiles who turn to God,

Galatians 2:11 (ESV) — 11 But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned.