THE NEED FOR UNITY AND HARMONY

THE NEED FOR UNITY AND HARMONY

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Psalm 133:1
"Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!"

Supporting Texts: John 17:21-23, 1 Corinthians 1:10, Romans 12:16, Ephesians 4:3, Philippians 2:2

INTRODUCTION

Unity and harmony are essential for the success of any family, church, organisation, or nation. Where there is division, progress is hindered, and confusion reigns. However, when people dwell together in unity, God commands His blessings.

Jesus Himself prayed for the unity of His followers, knowing that it would be a testimony to the world. The early church thrived because they were of "one heart and one soul" (Acts 4:32). In the same way, believers today must strive for unity and harmony, reflecting the love of Christ to the world.

1. UNITY AND HARMONY BRING GOD’S BLESSING

God delights in unity and rewards those who walk in it.

a) God Commands His Blessing in Unity
Psalm 133:3 says where brethren dwell together in unity, the Lord commands His blessing.

b) The Holy Spirit Moves in Unity
On the day of Pentecost, the disciples were in one accord, and the Holy Spirit came upon them (Acts 2:1-4).

c) Unity Brings Strength
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 teaches that two are better than one and that a threefold cord is not easily broken.

d) A Divided House Cannot Stand
Jesus said that a kingdom divided against itself cannot stand (Mark 3:24-25).

e) Biblical Example: The Early Church (Acts 4:32-33)
The early Christians had all things in common, and great grace was upon them all.

2. DISUNITY HINDERS PROGRESS

When there is division, confusion and setbacks follow.

a) Strife and Division Lead to Failure
1 Corinthians 3:3 warns that envy, strife, and divisions are signs of spiritual immaturity.

b) Disunity Opens the Door for the Enemy
James 3:16 says where there is envy and strife, there is confusion and every evil work.

c) Division Weakens the Body of Christ
Romans 16:17 urges believers to avoid those who cause divisions.

d) A Church or Family Divided Cannot Prosper
Amos 3:3 asks, "Can two walk together, except they be agreed?"

e) Biblical Example: The Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9)
The people were united, but when God confused their language, their project was abandoned.

3. UNITY AND HARMONY REFLECT THE NATURE OF GOD

God Himself exists in unity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

a) God Desires Unity Among His People
Jesus prayed for believers to be one, just as He and the Father are one (John 17:21).

b) The Church is One Body in Christ
Romans 12:5 teaches that though we are many, we are one body in Christ.

c) Love is the Foundation of Unity
Colossians 3:14 says love is the bond of perfectness.

d) Unity Brings Glory to God
Philippians 2:2 calls us to be of one mind and one accord, glorifying God together.

e) Biblical Example: The Trinity (Matthew 3:16-17)
At Jesus' baptism, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit worked together in perfect harmony.

4. HOW TO PROMOTE UNITY AND HARMONY

Unity requires intentional effort and a Christlike attitude.

a) Practice Humility and Selflessness
Philippians 2:3 instructs us to esteem others better than ourselves.

b) Forgive and Overlook Offences
Colossians 3:13 urges us to bear with one another and forgive grievances.

c) Speak Words that Build, Not Divide
Ephesians 4:29 commands us to speak only what edifies and ministers grace.

d) Seek Peace and Pursue It
Romans 12:18 encourages us to live peaceably with all men as much as possible.

e) Biblical Example: Abraham and Lot (Genesis 13:8-9)
Abraham chose peace over strife, allowing Lot to pick first to avoid conflict.

5. THE REWARDS OF UNITY AND HARMONY

When believers walk in unity, they experience God’s favour and power.

a) God’s Presence Dwells in Unity
Matthew 18:20 says where two or three gather in Jesus' name, He is there.

b) Unity Leads to Greater Impact
Acts 2:44-47 shows that the unity of the early church led to daily salvations.

c) God Multiplies the Efforts of the United
Deuteronomy 32:30 says one can chase a thousand, but two can put ten thousand to flight.

d) Unity Demonstrates God’s Love to the World
John 13:35 says the world will know we are Christ’s disciples by our love for one another.

e) Biblical Example: The Church in Antioch (Acts 11:26-30)
Because of their unity, they became the first to be called Christians and sent help to others.

CONCLUSION

Unity and harmony are essential for believers to thrive. Whether in the church, home, or community, division brings destruction, while unity attracts God’s blessing. As followers of Christ, we must strive for peace, love, and understanding, knowing that we are one body in Him.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, let the spirit of unity and harmony reign in my life and family.
2. Lord, remove every spirit of division and strife from my heart.
3. I reject every plan of the enemy to sow discord in my church and relationships.
4. Father, give me the grace to be a peacemaker in all situations.
5. Let my words always bring healing, encouragement, and unity.
6. Holy Spirit, help me to walk in love and forgiveness daily.
7. Every stronghold of disunity in my life and environment, be broken in Jesus' name.
8. Father, make me an agent of peace and harmony wherever I go.
9. Lord, bind Your church together with the bond of perfect love.
10. Let the world see Jesus in the way we love and treat one another.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. You will be a vessel of unity and peace in your family and community.
2. The spirit of division will not find a place in your home, church, or relationships.
3. God’s love will flow through you, drawing many to Christ.
4. Your life will be a testimony of harmony and divine favour.
5. Where there was discord, God will restore peace and understanding.
6. Every relationship damaged by strife is receiving divine healing.
7. Your church and family will experience supernatural growth through unity.
8. God will use you to bring reconciliation and healing to broken relationships.
9. The power of agreement will open doors of favour and breakthrough for you.
10. As you walk in unity and love, God’s commanded blessings will overflow in your life.

May God strengthen us to walk in unity and harmony, reflecting His love and glory to the world in Jesus' name!