Psalm 133:1 declares, “How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!” This verse highlights the beauty and power of unity within the family of God. Jesus Himself, in His final prayer before going to the cross, prayed for His followers, saying, “I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one” (John 17:21, NLT). If unity was a central concern for Jesus, then it should be a priority for us as well.
Why Is Unity So Important?
- It Reflects God’s Nature – The Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—exist in perfect unity. As believers, we are called to reflect this unity in our relationships with one another.
- It Strengthens Our Witness – Jesus prayed that our unity would show the world that He was sent by the Father (John 17:23). A united church is a powerful testimony to the love and truth of the Gospel.
- It Brings Blessing and Growth – Psalm 133 goes on to say that where there is unity, God commands a blessing. When believers walk in unity, the church thrives, people are encouraged, and the kingdom of God advances.
- It Creates a Healthy Church Environment – Unity fosters an atmosphere of love, trust, and peace. It allows believers to grow spiritually, serve effectively, and support one another in times of need.
Steps to Achieve Unity in the Body of Christ
1. Keep Our Focus on Jesus
Unity begins when we focus on what unites us rather than what divides us. Our common foundation is Jesus Christ. If we make Him the center of our faith, personal preferences and minor theological differences become secondary.
2. Walk in Humility and Love
Pride and selfishness often cause division. Philippians 2:3-4 exhorts us to “do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” Choosing to love, even when we disagree, fosters unity.
3. Practice Forgiveness and Grace
Unity requires a heart of forgiveness. Colossians 3:13 reminds us to “bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Holding grudges or harboring bitterness only weakens the church.
4. Encourage and Build Each Other Up
1 Thessalonians 5:11 says, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” Words can either bring division or create unity. Speaking life and encouragement strengthens the church.
5. Pursue Reconciliation When Conflict Arises
Conflict is inevitable, but how we handle it determines whether unity is preserved or broken. Jesus instructed us in Matthew 18:15-17 to go directly to a person when we have a conflict and seek reconciliation. Avoid gossip and strive for peace.
6. Serve Together in Ministry
When believers serve together with a common mission, unity naturally follows. Whether it’s worship, outreach, or discipleship, working side by side fosters deeper relationships and a shared sense of purpose.
7. Pray for One Another
Prayer unites hearts. When we pray for our fellow believers, we begin to see them through God’s eyes. Jesus prayed for our unity—shouldn’t we do the same?
Final Thoughts
Unity in the Body of Christ is not just an ideal; it is a command and a reflection of God’s heart. The enemy seeks to divide, but God calls us to be one. As we focus on Jesus, walk in love and humility, and commit to reconciliation, we will see the church strengthened and our witness to the world magnified. May we be known as people who strive to live in the unity Christ prayed for—so that the world may believe.
