We can move beyond polarization and division while still holding onto our convictions. But it will require us to reimagine church with patience, trust, and courage.
Main Ideas:
[01:16] Instead of reconciling our divisions the Church adds to them.
[01:48] The solution to a divided world is a united Church.
[03:27] It is possible for people who truly love Jesus to disagree on what it looks like to follow him.
[05:10] Acceptance is the key to unity.
[09:41] We can accept each other because God accepts each of us.
[10:49] Our responsibility is to ask “What does Jesus’ love look like” in our own lives.
[11:49] Acceptance requires us to embrace others without pushing our own views on them.
[13:24] Unity requires us to trust that the Holy Spirit knows what he is doing.
[14:31] Nothing shows a divided world the reality of Jesus’ love like a diverse yet unified church.
[17:41] We can disagree and still be in the same family.
[19:47] When the Church is united it can heal the divisions of the world.
Invitation:
[18:26] Read: Romans 14-15 v.13
[18:38] Evaluate:
– What issue(s) have I put above unity?
– What conviction do I not understand? How can I better understand someone with that conviction?
[19:06] Pray: Jesus help me follow you even when it seems to contradict what I think is true.
Discussion Questions
1. On a scale of 1-10 how comfortable did you feel with this message? Why do you think that is?
2. Have you ever felt pressured to conform to certain viewpoints or beliefs? What challenges do you foresee in accepting others with differing perspectives?
3. Read Romans 15 v. 7. How do you think our attitudes toward acceptance and unity within the Church can impact the broader society?
4. How can we support each other in prioritizing genuine unity in the Holy Spirit over adhering to external norms or opinions?
5. How can your group pray with you this week?
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SHOW NOTES
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