For musicians and music lovers, there is nothing more beautiful than hearing lots of voices singing in perfect harmony. So also, a church made up of imperfect, forgiven believers have incredible amounts of potential to produce change as they live in harmony with one another. Needless to say, discord can be damaging, musically and relationally. Today, Pastor John takes on one more Another in the bible - what it means for His Church to live in harmony.

Romans 15:1-7
The Example of Christ

We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

OUTLINE:
Harmony. . .and Discord

Now I appeal to Euodia and Syntyche. Please, because you belong to the Lord, settle your disagreement. (Philippians 4:2)

Biblical Harmony: What is it? (v. 5)
Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. (1 Peter 3:8)
I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose. (1 Corinthians 1:10)
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. (Romans 12:16-18)

Staying In Tune: How?
For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ. (1 Corinthians 2:16)

Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace. For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future. There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is overall, in all, and living through all. (Ephesians 4:3-6 NLT)

A Beautiful Song: It’s Effect

Worship (v. 6)

Witness (vv. 2,7)