Pastor Chris Griffith explores the theme of unity within the church, particularly in the face of societal divisions and diverse opinions. It starts by highlighting the current climate of division and contrasts it with the idea of the church as a place of unity, as envisioned by God.
His message emphasizes that true unity goes beyond superficial slogans or labels; it involves genuine connection and harmony. The text uses the metaphor of musical harmony—different notes coming together to create a pleasing chord—to illustrate this concept. It concludes by underscoring that unity in worship should transcend differences and be rooted in a shared faith in Christ, rather than external distinctions.
In the Battle
July 28, 2024 • Brice Herrick • John 17:20–21, Ephesians 6:10–13
Brice dives into spiritual warfare, emphasizing the reality of a spiritual battle that Christians face, highlighting the importance of unity and the need to "put on the full armor of God" to stand against evil forces.
This message explores various reactions people have towards spiritual warfare, ranging from excitement and skepticism to fear and anger. It stresses the importance of understanding biblical spiritual warfare, the enemy's strategies to divide and deceive, and how Christ helps believers overcome these challenges. The message concludes by encouraging believers to strengthen their commitment to truth, allegiance to Christ, and reliance on His power.
In the Body
July 21, 2024 • Shane Krumm • Ephesians 4:1–3
In the church, we often divide via our pleasures. We live in spite of one another because our lives are often defined by trying to “live the dream” in the eyes of others. Self-protective fears of not being happy enough lead us to chose ourselves over others. Instead, we are called to re-unite in the body of Christ. In needing and giving ourselves to one another to grow. Bearing with one another to remember that we only have true faith when it is shared. That we can unite with others under a shared mission, telos, and humility. Being restored a life worthy of th calling we have received. Becoming defined by our shared glorious identity in the Body more than simply our personalities as individuals seeking pleasure at all costs to community.
In the Spirit
July 14, 2024 • Clair Deidda • Ephesians 4
In the church, we often divide via our sources of power. We live in spite of one another because our lives are defined by the strength of our associations. We try to “make a life for ourselves” in natural ways that reflect the world. Defining ourselves by walking out-of-step from God’s presence. Self-protective fears lead us to trust our resumes, social acceptance, and bank accounts. Instead, we are called to re-unite in Christ’s Spirit. Not by our our way but by his might. Remembering that we have a loving Spirit inside of us. One we can trust and that unites with others in his sustenance, joy, and refreshing. Being restored to our intimate oneness with the trinity, we gain faith from “the power working within us.”(Eph 3:20 KJV). Becoming defined by our shared identity in the Spirit more than the dried-up wells that often promise but can’t bring “springs of ever-living water.”
In the World
July 7, 2024 • Millie Voigtlander • Ephesians 5:1–2
In the church, we often divide via our Preservation. We live in spite of our neighbors because our lives are defined by trying to fit in to Christian community. This self-protective fear of not being fed enough is insatiable. It leads us to never share our faith with those who don’t know Jesus. Instead, we are called to re-unite in our call to be one that the world would know who sent us. To our shared mission to reach the lost, and not just transform the found. To remember that we have are called to be “salt and light” in a dark world. To unite with believers in oneness “in the world” as our greatest means of sharing Jesus with those who don’t yet know him. To be agents of regeneration to a hurting world. Becoming defined as people of good news in a waiting world.
In the Son
June 30, 2024 • Brice Herrick • Ephesians 4—6
In the church, we often divide via our performances. We live in spite of one another because our lives are defined by trying to “justify ourselves” in the eyes of God and others. Self-protective fears of not being enough lead us to compete. Instead, we are called to re-unite in Christ’s sacrifice. Not by our our works but by his grace. To remember that we have a loving Savior in Heaven that we can trust. That we can unite with others under his mercy, salvation, and kindness. Being restored to our immeasurable worth in Christ (Philippians 3:1-3 ). Becoming defined by our shared identity in the Savior more than the performative ways we try to win, as if there isn’t enough of Jesus’s love to go around.
In the Father
June 23, 2024 • Tyler Gorsline • John 17
“The Father’s love is an all-encompassing embrace that creates unity amid diversity and draws us into the one family of God.” - Brennan Manning
We must seek healing of our relational wounds, if we want to be as spiritually united “as we are” in the One Body of Christ.
If we don't let God work on our inner life and trust structures, then our outer life will be one of defensive combativeness and disunity.
