We Are One (2)

We Are One

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:12-14

Introduction:

My Saint Thomas Baptist family and friends, I greet you today in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It is a blessing to gather in this sacred space, where the Spirit moves and unites us as one body in Christ Jesus. Today, we are diving deep into the heart of Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 12:12-14.

The Apostle Paul teaches us a profound truth about unity in diversity: "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."

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My brothers and sisters as you all are quite aware of my love affair with old school soul music as I was reading this passage of scripture a song by Frankie Beverly and Maze came to mind. The reason for this is because the song basically talked about being on the same page in a relationship, in essence when we are in a relationship, we should be on one accord. The song was recorded and released in 1983 and was the title track for the album by the same name, We Are One.

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These are the lyrics to the song:

‌I Can’t understand

‌Why we treat each other in this way

‌Taking up time

‌With the silly silly games we play

‌We’ve got our love

‌And no matter how it’s said or done

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We are one no matter what we do

‌We are one love will see us through

‌We are one and that’s the way it is

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Sometimes I feel

‌That we try and make each other sad

‌The things we do

‌How we make each other feel so bad

‌We’ve got so much

‌We could all be having so much fun

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We are one from the very start

‌We are one deep down in your heart

‌We are one and that’s the way it is

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Now, my Saint Thomas Baptist family and friends let me paint a picture for you. Imagine your body—oh yes, that marvelous creation! Each part plays a vital role. Your hands, your feet, your eyes, and your heart—each member has its purpose, but together they form one cohesive unit. When one part suffers, every part suffers. When one part rejoices, we all rejoice! That’s the beauty of the body of Christ!

So, with the help of the Holy Spirit and the real preacher Jesus Christ, I would like to share these encouraging truths with us so that we get come to understand that “We Are One” and the first is this.

Unity in Diversity:

‌Paul emphasizes that we are not just a collection of individuals; we are a unified body. We come from different backgrounds, races, and experiences, yet in Christ Jesus, we find our commonality. The world may try to divide us, but in Jesus, we are called to transcend those divisions. Each of you has unique gifts and talents, and when we come together, we create a tapestry of faith that is vibrant and powerful.

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In this passage, the Apostle Paul reminds us of a profound truth: just as the human body has many parts, each with its function, so too does the body of Christ. We are diverse in our upbringings, our practises, our abilities. But this diversity is not a barrier; it is a blessing! It is what makes the body strong and resilient.

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Imagine a world where everyone was the same, where every voice echoed in unison without harmony. How dull, how monotonous that would be! But God, in His glorious creativity, chose to weave a tapestry of humanity that reflects His majesty.

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‌(Ephesians 4:4-6) “There is one body [of believers] and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called [to salvation]; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of us all, who is [sovereign] overall and [working] through all and [living] in all.”

(Galatians 3:28) “There is [now no distinction in regard to salvation] neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female, for you [who believe] are all one in Christ Jesus.”

(Romans 12:4-5) “For just as in one [physical] body we have many parts, and these parts do not all have the same function or special use, 5 so we, who are many, are [nevertheless just] one body in Christ, and individually [we are] parts one of another [mutually dependent on each other].”

‌The Importance of Each Member:

‌Think about it, my brothers and sisters: the eye cannot say to the hand, "I do not need you." Each part of the body is essential. Do not underestimate the power of your contributions, no matter how small they may seem. Whether you are called to sing, to teach, to serve, or to pray, know that your role is indispensable. God has equipped you with everything you need to fulfill your purpose in this body.

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My Saint Thomas Baptist family and friends let me tell you something, there is no insignificant member of this body. You may feel like you are just a small part, a tiny piece of a grand puzzle. But hear me when I say, you are essential! Whether you are a hand that serves, a mouth that speaks truth, or feet that bring the good news, you have a purpose.

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Paul tells us that the body does not consist of one member, but of many. Each role, each gift, is needed to fulfill the work of the kingdom. We need the wisdom of the elders, the energy of the youth, the prayers of the saints, and the vision of the dreamers.

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(1 Peter 4:10) “Just as each one of you has received a special gift [a spiritual talent, an ability graciously given by God], employ it in serving one another as [is appropriate for] good stewards of God’s multi-faceted grace [faithfully using the diverse, varied gifts and abilities granted to Christians by God’s unmerited favor].”

(Romans 12:6) “Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to use them accordingly: if [someone has the gift of] prophecy, [let him speak a new message from God to His people] in proportion to the faith possessed.”

(1 Corinthians 12:27) “Now you [collectively] are Christ’s body, and individually [you are] members of it [each with his own special purpose and function].”

A Call to Action:

‌Now, my brothers and sisters this understanding of oneness is not merely a theological concept; it is a call to action. We are called to live out this truth in our daily lives. The world outside these walls is characterized by division, animosity, and strife. But we, the church, are called to be different. We are called to be a beacon of hope.

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When Paul speaks of being baptized by one Spirit, he invites us to recognize that we have all been transformed by the same divine love. That love compels us to embrace one another, even when it’s hard. It calls us to extend grace to those who are different from us, to listen to those whose voices have been marginalized, and to stand in solidarity with those who suffer.

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But, my brothers and sisters, we must not just acknowledge our unity; we must live it out! It’s easy to celebrate diversity from a distance, but true unity demands that we engage with one another. We must lift each other up in prayer, support one another in our struggles, and celebrate each other’s victories. Let us be the kind of community that reflects the love of Christ—a community where every member feels valued and included.

(Hebrews 10:24-25) “and let us consider [thoughtfully] how we may encourage one another to love and to do good deeds, 25 not forsaking our meeting together [as believers for worship and instruction], as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more [faithfully] as you see the day [of Christ’s return] approaching.”

(Colossians 3:12-14) “So, as God’s own chosen people, who are holy [set apart, sanctified for His purpose] and well-beloved [by God Himself], put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience [which has the power to endure whatever injustice or unpleasantness comes, with good temper]; 13 bearing graciously with one another, and willingly forgiving each other if one has a cause for complaint against another; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so should you forgive. 14 Beyond all these things put on and wrap yourselves in [unselfish] love, which is the perfect bond of unity [for everything is bound together in agreement when each one seeks the best for others].”

(Philippians 2:1-2) “Therefore if there is any encouragement and comfort in Christ [as there certainly is in abundance], if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship [that we share] in the Spirit, if [there is] any [great depth of] affection and compassion, 2 make my joy complete by being of the same mind, having the same love [toward one another], knit together in spirit, intent on one purpose [and living a life that reflects your faith and spreads the gospel—the good news regarding salvation through faith in Christ].”

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All I’m trying to say my Saint Thomas Baptist Family and Friends is;

‌When we are together, the joy of God shines brightly.

‌When we are united, the peace of God flows freely.

‌When we are in harmony, the grace of God surrounds us.

‌When we are connected, the light of God guides our path.

‌When we are compassionate, the mercy of God embraces us.

‌When we are supportive, the strength of God uplifts us.

‌When we are forgiving, the kindness of God transforms us.

‌When we are present, the spirit of God fills the room.

‌When we are grateful, the blessings of God multiply.

‌When we are loving, the presence of God is felt deeply.

‌These things take place when we truly understand and realize that “We Are One!!!”

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Conclusion:

‌As we close today, I urge you to remember this: in a world that often seeks to divide us, we are called to be one. Let us embrace our differences and celebrate our unity in Christ. Let us be the hands and feet of Jesus, reaching out to those who feel lost and alone. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can shine His light into the darkest corners of our world.

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So, my dear brothers and sisters, let us go forth, united in purpose and love, for we are one body, one spirit, and one family in Christ.

Amen!