Strong Unity Among Christian Friends
Christian friends displayed a strong unity marked by separation, longing, prayer, fellowship, adherence to gospel standards, unified mindset, and mutual encouragement. Their unity led to deep affection and compassionate relationships, emphasizing unity in purpose, love, and action. This unity was not only evident in their interactions but was also the driving force behind their actions, emphasizing the importance of standing together and supporting one another as a united front.
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Presentation Transcript
Class will start at 9:15 today
These Christian Friends Missed Each Other They were separated from one another (1:7, 13, 14, 16, 19 + 1:27; 2:12) They were longing for one another They were praying for one another (1:3-11, 19; 4:6-7) They were enjoying and exercising fellowship with one another (1:5, 7; 4:14-15)
These Christian Friends Enjoyed a Strong Unity with Each Other Their strong unity involved the right standard (1:27) The only approved standard for unity is: the gospel of Christ, the faith of the gospel Therefore, we need to study that standard together We need to have deep respect for that standard together Their strong unity involved the right action (1:27) They sought to conduct themselves in correspondence with the standard They sought to stand firm with the perseverance of a soldier in defense They sought to strive together (side-by-side) in contention for the gospel The imagery here is of a united front dedicated to the standard, defending the standard, living the standard, moving forward together
These Christian Friends Enjoyed a Strong Unity with Each Other Their strong unity involved the right mindset (1:27 + 2:2-5) They were to be of one spirit = united in their will and disposition They were to be of one mind = united in their very soul They were to be like-minded = thinking in the same direction They were to be of the same love = maintaining a loving dedication They were to be of one accord = souls beating in harmony They were to be of one purpose = keeping minds on one thing They were to have the mind of Jesus Christ = humbly exalting others The emphasis here is a united heart and mind desiring the same thing and working toward the same thing
These Christian Friends Enjoyed a Strong Unity with Each Other Their strong unity brought about the right result (2:1) They enjoyed encouragement in Christ from being with each other They enjoyed comfort from love as practiced with each other They enjoyed fellowship of the Spirit with each other, possible by God They enjoyed affection and compassion deep feelings for each other These things were not only the result of unity but the catalyst for it Their strong unity involved the right balance (4:2-3) Two ladies were called alongside with personal urging Two ladies were both held equally responsible Two ladies were urged to be of the same mind in the Lord Disunity among even two members can impact the rest of the church Peaceful unity sometimes needs help from fellow Christians
