United in the Spirit
"Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."
— Ephesians 4:3-6
Disagreements are everywhere. Whether it’s politics, theology, or personal convictions, we all hold different views shaped by our experiences and understanding. Even within the church, division can creep in. Yet, Paul’s words in Ephesians 4 call us to something higher—a unity that transcends our differences and binds us together in Christ.
The beauty of the body of Christ is that we are not called to uniformity but to unity. We don’t have to think alike on every issue, but we are commanded to love one another deeply. Our unity is not built on personal opinions but on the unshakable foundation of Jesus Christ.
Paul begins this passage in Ephesians 4 by urging us to “live a life worthy of the calling you have received” (Ephesians 4:1). This means our faith should shape how we relate to one another. He lists qualities essential to maintaining unity: humility, gentleness, patience, and love (v. 2). These are not just suggestions; they are necessities for a church that reflects Christ. Walking in humility means recognizing that we don’t have all the answers. Gentleness requires us to approach disagreements with grace rather than hostility. Patience reminds us that unity takes time and effort. And love—above all—is what binds us together despite our differences.
Paul emphasizes the oneness that defines the church:
One body
One Spirit
One hope
One Lord
One faith
One baptism
One God and Father of all
These are not just theological statements; they are the reality of who we are. While we may differ in worship styles, denominational traditions, or interpretations of certain Scriptures, our oneness in Christ is greater than any earthly division. The world will know we are Christians not by our ability to agree on everything but by our love for one another(John 13:35). If we allow differences to drive us apart, we undermine the Gospel. But when we choose love over division, we show the world a different way—the way of Christ.
Making Every Effort Toward Unity
Paul’s command to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit” (v. 3) implies that unity requires intentionality. It doesn’t happen automatically. Here are a few ways we can actively pursue unity:
Listen with an open heart. Instead of assuming the worst about someone who thinks differently, seek to understand their perspective.
Prioritize relationships over being right. Winning an argument is never more important than maintaining love and peace.
Extend grace. Just as Christ has been patient with us, we must be patient with one another.
Keep Christ at the center. Our faith is built on Him—not on our personal preferences or traditions.
In a time when division is the norm, a church that remains united in love is a powerful testimony. The enemy seeks to divide, but the Spirit of God brings unity. When we live out this unity, we demonstrate the transforming power of the Gospel. Let’s be a people who love well, walk in humility, and make every effort to remain united in the Spirit—not by ignoring our differences, but by choosing to love one another in the midst of them.
In God’s grip,
Pastor Chuck Church