The Oneness of the Church

Introduction:

Does the idea of oneness and the church go together? It should: John 17:20-21. How has mankind done in fulfilling God’s expectations in this area? What Jesus prayed for in John 17:20-21 should always be our goal. Think of Paul’s writing in Phil. 1:23-27. As we talk about the oneness of the church today, I want us to look at this from two perspectives.

I. The oneness of the church is seen in who we are.

A.     The scriptures know of only one church.

1.     Mt. 16:18 – the singularity of the church is seen here.

2.     1 Cor. 1:10-13 – Is Christ divided?

3.     Eph. 1:22-23 – more evidence of the singularity of the church.

4.     Eph. 4:4-6 – one body; one faith; one baptism.

B.     Much in religious world is confusing and contradictory.

1.     This is not from God – 1 Cor. 14:33

2.     This family seeks to be like the church you read about in the bible.

II. The oneness of the church is seen in what we do.

A.     Reread John 17:20-21. Jesus hands out a mandate.

1.     We are to be united with each other – so that we may reflect the light of Jesus.

2.     Mt. 5:14-16.

3.     When all is said and done, our sole purpose is to be one. Phil. 1:27.

B.     Consider how we should unite in oneness of truth.

1.     John 18:38 – Pilate’s question. Post-modern world thinks it has the answer…

2.     John 17:17 – truth…is the word of God.

3.     Consider the verses that identify the truth:

a)     Acts 13:49 – the word of the Lord; Acts 2:42 – the apostle’s teaching

b)    Gal. 1:6-8 – the gospel; Jude 3 – the faith.

4.     2 Cor. 13:8 – What should be our goal?

C.    Consider how we should unite in oneness of service.

1.     Look at the pattern. Acts 2:45-47; 4:32-35; 6:1-7

a)     These brethren met the needs of others.

2.     Look around you. Someone in this family needs you. You can serve them.

D.    Oneness can be seen in our edification.

1.     1 Thess. 5:11a – we must be committed to meeting the spiritual needs of others.

2.     Mt. 28:19b-20a – neglected part of the great commission.

3.     Not only should we “teach” what Jesus commanded, but we need to teach each other to “observe” His commandments.

4.     In our spiritual education, let us focus from the perspective that emphasizes doing and not just knowing!

5.     When we build up our spiritual lives together – we grow together!

Conclusion:

A.     Much to rejoice about! Much to do! We have a great head start!

B.     Today we have talked about the oneness of the church.

C.     Outside of Christ? Want to be connected to the body of Christ? Get started today.