Despite Jesus' prayer that all Christians "be one," divisions have been epidemic in the body of Christ. Though we may think we know why this happens, Christena Cleveland says we probably don't. Learn the hidden reasons behind conflict and divisions, the unseen dynamics at work that tend to separate us from others. Here are the tools we need to build bridges.
Despite Jesus' prayer that all Christians "be one," divisions have been epidemic in the body of Christ. Though we may think we know why this happens, Christena Cleveland says we probably don't. Learn the hidden reasons behind conflict and divisions, the unseen dynamics at work that tend to separate us from others. Here are the tools we need to build bridges.
These days, there’s no dirtier word than “divisive,” especially in religious and political circles. Claiming a controversial opinion, talking about our differences, even sharing our doubts can be seen as threatening to the goal of unity. But what if unity shouldn’t be our goal? In Holy Disunity: How What Separates Us Can Save Us, Layton E. Williams proposes that our primary calling as humans is not to create unity but rather to seek authentic relationship with God, ourselves, one another, and the world around us. And that means actively engaging those with whom we disagree. Our religious, political, social, and cultural differences can create doubt and tension, but disunity also provides surprising gifts of perspective and grace. By analyzing conflict and rifts in both modern culture and Scripture, Williams explores how our disagreements and differences—our disunity—can ultimately redeem us.
Division. Polarization. Strife. That's life-as-usual in today's world. But it shouldn't describe the church. It's time for Christians to listen, reach out, and work together for the common good. But how can God's people achieve true unity in a fallen world? What sort of cooperation is actually possible? Luder Whitlock has an answer-a good one-and an appeal. He shows how we can learn from studying God's views on church unity and from historical schisms as well as agreements. And, once we embrace the goal of unity, Whitlock points us to specific, realistic steps we can take to realize a united community under God. Book jacket.
Christians have not always presented an inviting picture to the world. Too often we have failed to show the beauty of authentic Christian love. And the world has disregarded Christianity as a result. Francis A. Schaeffer challenges Christians to respond compassionately to a needy world and to show the mark of Christ in all their actions.
Can we all just get along? E Pluribus Unum: “Out of many, one.” This motto is emblazoned on the Great Seal of the United States, but it could be the church’s model, too. Unfortunately, the daily experience of many Christians and churches feels like the opposite: out of one, many. We are increasingly aware of what makes us different from others, and it is hurting the church and its witness. All Together Different will help readers understand why we find it so difficult “to just get along.” Drawing from research on personal and group identity, it equips readers to navigate a culture that often pays lip service to the value of diversity, but struggles to foster constructive dialogue and mutual respect. With clear writing and real-life stories, All Together Different translates social identity theory for pastors, church leaders, and ministry practitioners, exposing it to the light of biblical and theological reflection.
Everyone, Christians included, knows what it’s like to feel isolated and alone. We’ve all wondered if anyone really understands us or truly cares about our lives. The good news is that we aren’t alone, and the gospel tells us why: Jesus, the Son of God, came to earth to be forever united with his people—to be one of us. In fact, he has so united himself with us that the Bible says we are literally “in” him. Far from being alone and lost, the Incarnation changes everything for the Christian. Writing with everyday readers in mind, Elyse Fitzpatrick fleshes out the practical implications of our union with Christ and gives us confidence that we are not alone in this approachable and applicable devotional book.
Churches all over the world work to spread the gospel of Christ, but this work is done in many different ways by many different denominations. Jesus and Paul were quite clear that the church of God was to be in total unityespecially with regard to the teachings of the gospel. So how do we bring the many denominations into a unity that will enhance a genuine team effort to present the true gospel to the world? In Unity in the Faith, author Bradford Mark Rosenquist shows why church unity across all denominations is an absolutely necessary work that must be accomplished for gospel success. First outlining what church unity is and what has been a historical obstacle to this unity, Rosenquist goes on to show how integral unity is to the gospel message of Christ. In the end, Unity in the Faith provides both an analysis of unity as well as a roadmap that Christians and church leaders can use to promote true unity in their congregations. It takes a cooperative effort to reach the world with the truth about Jesus and the kingdom of God. The universal body of Christ must therefore overcome the current disunity so that as one we can live up to Christs admonition to go into all the world and preach the gospel.
What if the annoying person you try to avoid is actually an accidental saint in your life? What if, even in our failings, holy moments are waiting to happen? Nadia Bolz-Weber demonstrates what happens when ordinary people meet to explore the Christian faith. Their faltering steps towards wholeness will ring true for believer and sceptic alike.
Imagine if every church were a community of believers dedicated wholly to God and growing together as followers of Christ. Is the atmosphere in your church one of peace or contention? Of joyful sacrifice or selfish ambition? It's easy to get distracted by the problems in your church brought on by sinful and self-centered living. 1 Corinthians provides a guide for unity, service, and interaction with worldly culture. If any congregation knew about problems, it was the church in ancient Corinth. Yet, these principles are as relevant and helpful today as they were for the early church. In this practical, challenging book, you will discover: - How to navigate the tricky relationship between the church and our the culture - How to answer questions about rights, preferences, and gray areas among believers - How to protect and promote unity in the church - Why love and truth rank higher than liberty and individualism Each chapter concludes with thought-provoking questions and a suggested action step so you can apply these truths to your own church community, ministry, and personal walk with God. God calls us not only into community with other believers, but unity as well. With community comes great challenges, as we are all sinners. Church Undivided details God's vision for unity in His church and Paul's guidance to create it within our own churches. About the author: Bob Ingle is the lead pastor at Waypoint Church in St. Charles, Missouri. For over a decade, he has faithfully preached the Word and equipped believers to serve God using their unique gifts. Pastor Ingle's heart is to see people transformed by truth and engaged as faithful disciples of Christ in an authentic community.
