THE POWER OF A UNITED CHURCH

THE POWER OF A UNITED CHURCH

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Philippians 2:1-4

Key Verse: “Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.” — Philippians 2:2 (KJV)

Supporting Texts: Psalm 133:1-3; John 17:20-23; Acts 2:42-47; Acts 4:32-35; Ephesians 4:1-6; 1 Corinthians 1:10-13; Colossians 3:12-15.

Description: This message teaches that a united church becomes spiritually strong, effective in evangelism, fruitful in ministry, and powerful in fulfilling God's purpose when believers walk together in love, humility, one spirit, and mutual consideration.

INTRODUCTION

The Church of Jesus Christ is not merely a gathering of people who attend the same religious organisation; it is a spiritual family brought together by the blood of Jesus Christ. Although believers come from different backgrounds, cultures, educational levels, financial positions, and personal experiences, they have one Lord, one faith, one salvation, and one common mission. God's intention is that His Church should function as one body, united in love and committed to His purpose.

In Philippians 2:1–4, Apostle Paul appeals to the believers to be likeminded, have the same love, be of one accord, and demonstrate humility towards one another. He understood that the strength of the Church is not determined only by the size of its congregation, the beauty of its buildings, the quality of its musical instruments, or the number of its programmes. A church may possess excellent facilities and gifted ministers, yet become weak when division, jealousy, selfish ambition, and disunity dominate its members.

A united church is a powerful church. When believers love one another, support one another, pray together, and work together, they create an atmosphere where God's presence is honoured and His purpose is fulfilled. Unity does not mean that everybody must have the same personality, opinion, or assignment. It means that despite our differences, we remain committed to Christ, love one another, protect the fellowship, and work together for the advancement of God's kingdom.

1. UNITY IS THE FOUNDATION OF A STRONG CHURCH

Unity is one of the most important foundations of a healthy and growing church. In Philippians 2:1-2, Paul reminds believers of the encouragement, comfort, fellowship, affection, and compassion they have received through Christ. On that basis, he calls them to demonstrate the same love and unity towards one another.

The Church becomes strong when its members understand that they belong to one spiritual family. Disunity weakens the fellowship, damages relationships, discourages workers, and creates opportunities for the enemy to disrupt the work of God. A united church, however, creates an environment where believers can grow together and accomplish great things for the kingdom.

a. UNITY IS THE WILL OF CHRIST FOR HIS CHURCH (John 17:20-23)

In His prayer before the cross, Jesus prayed that all believers would be one. He desired that the unity of His followers would reflect the unity between Him and the Father.

This reveals that unity is not merely an organisational strategy; it is a spiritual expectation established by Christ Himself. A church that continually tolerates unnecessary division is not reflecting the heart of its Lord.

Practical application: Every member must take personal responsibility for promoting peace, love, and cooperation within the church.

b. UNITY MAKES THE CHURCH STRONGER (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)

The Bible teaches that two are better than one because they have a good reward for their labour. When believers stand together, they can accomplish tasks that would be difficult for individuals working alone.

A church becomes stronger when members contribute their different gifts, experiences, resources, and abilities towards a common purpose. No member should consider himself too important to work with others or too insignificant to make a contribution.

Practical application: Be willing to cooperate with other members and support the church's activities rather than working in isolation.

c. UNITY CREATES AN ATMOSPHERE FOR GOD'S BLESSING (Psalm 133:1-3)

David declared how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity. He compared this unity to precious anointing oil and the dew of Hermon, and concluded that God commanded the blessing there.

Unity creates an atmosphere of love, peace, mutual support, and spiritual fellowship. Where believers genuinely walk together, the church becomes a place where people experience encouragement and spiritual refreshment.

Practical application: Refuse to be an agent of division. Become a person who promotes peace, reconciles people, and strengthens relationships.

d. UNITY REQUIRES THE PRESENCE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT (Ephesians 4:3)

Paul instructs believers to endeavour to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Christian unity is not merely the result of human agreement; it is produced and sustained through the work of the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit helps believers overcome pride, selfishness, bitterness, and other attitudes that destroy relationships. However, believers must deliberately preserve the unity He produces.

Practical application: Allow the Holy Spirit to control your attitude, speech, reactions, and relationships with other members.

Biblical Example: The Early Church (Acts 4:32-35)

The Bible describes the multitude of believers as being of one heart and one soul. They shared their possessions, supported those in need, and demonstrated remarkable generosity. Their unity was expressed through practical love, not merely words. This teaches that a strong church is built when members care about one another and work together.

2. LOVE IS THE BOND THAT SUSTAINS CHURCH UNITY

Unity cannot survive where genuine love is absent. People may attend the same church, participate in the same programmes, and belong to the same department without truly loving one another. However, biblical unity requires more than physical togetherness; it requires a heart of genuine affection and concern.

In Philippians 2:2, Paul specifically calls believers to have the same love. This means that the love of Christ must become the controlling principle of our relationships. We must learn to celebrate one another, support one another, forgive one another, and demonstrate compassion towards those who are struggling.

a. LOVE MUST BE THE IDENTIFYING MARK OF BELIEVERS (John 13:34-35)

Jesus declared that people would know His disciples by their love for one another. He did not say that the world would recognise His followers merely by their buildings, religious titles, programmes, or denominational identity.

The love of Christ must be visible in the way church members relate to one another. Where hatred, jealousy, discrimination, and hostility dominate, the church's testimony becomes weakened.

Practical application: Let your conduct demonstrate genuine love towards every member of the church, regardless of status, background, or position.

b. LOVE MUST BE EXPRESSED THROUGH FORGIVENESS (Colossians 3:13)

Paul instructs believers to forbear one another and forgive one another, even as Christ has forgiven them. No church can remain united if members refuse to forgive offences.

Because we are human, misunderstandings and disagreements will sometimes occur. However, believers must not allow temporary offences to become permanent divisions.

Practical application: Refuse to harbour bitterness. Be willing to forgive, apologise when wrong, and pursue reconciliation.

c. LOVE MUST BE PRACTISED THROUGH MUTUAL CARE (1 Corinthians 12:25-26)

The Bible teaches that there should be no division in the body, but that members should have the same care for one another. If one member suffers, all the members suffer with that member; if one is honoured, all rejoice.

A united church does not ignore the pain of its members. It notices those who are discouraged, sick, financially challenged, grieving, or spiritually weak.

Practical application: Visit, encourage, support, and pray for members who are passing through difficult seasons.

d. LOVE MUST GO BEYOND WORDS (1 John 3:18)

The Bible commands us not to love merely in word or tongue, but in deed and truth. Genuine Christian love must produce practical actions.

It is easy to declare that we love the church, but that love must be demonstrated through service, generosity, kindness, hospitality, and sacrifice.

Practical application: Find practical ways to help other members without waiting for public recognition or personal reward.

Biblical Example: Barnabas (Acts 9:26-27; Acts 11:22-24)

When other believers were suspicious of Saul after his conversion, Barnabas stood by him and introduced him to the apostles. Later, Barnabas encouraged the church in Antioch and was described as a good man, full of the Holy Ghost and faith. His life demonstrates how love, encouragement, and acceptance can strengthen the Church.

3. HUMILITY IS ESSENTIAL FOR A UNITED CHURCH

One of the greatest enemies of church unity is pride. Pride makes people believe that their opinions, positions, achievements, and contributions are more important than those of others. It creates competition, unhealthy comparisons, resentment, and unnecessary conflict.

In Philippians 2:3, Paul commands believers to do nothing through strife or vainglory, but in lowliness of mind to esteem others better than themselves. A united church is built by people who are willing to serve rather than compete, encourage rather than criticise, and cooperate rather than dominate.

a. REJECT SELFISH AMBITION (Philippians 2:3)

Paul warns against doing things through strife or vainglory. Selfish ambition seeks personal recognition, power, and advantage at the expense of others.

When church members become more interested in positions than service, competition begins to replace cooperation. The work of God must never become a platform for personal rivalry.

Practical application: Serve God with a sincere heart. Do not turn church activities into opportunities for self-promotion or competition.

b. ESTEEM OTHERS WITH HUMILITY (Philippians 2:3)

The believer is instructed to esteem others better than himself. This does not mean that you should deny your God-given gifts or consider yourself worthless. It means developing an attitude that respects and values others.

A humble person recognises that every member has something valuable to contribute. No position in the church should make anyone look down on others.

Practical application: Respect other members, appreciate their contributions, and never use your position to intimidate or humiliate anyone.

c. FOLLOW THE EXAMPLE OF CHRIST (Philippians 2:5-8)

Jesus Christ is the perfect example of humility. Although He was in the form of God, He humbled Himself and took the form of a servant. His greatness was demonstrated through obedience and sacrificial service.

The Church becomes united when members follow the example of Jesus rather than the standards of worldly leadership, where people often seek power and control.

Practical application: Be willing to serve, help, and make sacrifices for the good of the church, even when nobody applauds you.

d. HONOUR THE GIFTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF OTHERS (Romans 12:10)

Paul encourages believers to be kindly affectioned towards one another and to prefer one another in honour. Every member has a role in the body of Christ.

The church must not become a place where people compete for recognition or undermine those who are making progress. Instead, members should celebrate one another and encourage the use of their gifts.

Practical application: Appreciate other people's achievements, encourage emerging leaders, and give credit where it is deserved.

Biblical Example: John the Baptist (John 3:26-30)

When people reported that Jesus was gaining more followers, John the Baptist refused to become jealous or threatened. He declared that Christ must increase while he must decrease. His attitude demonstrates the humility required for unity in God's kingdom. A united church celebrates the advancement of Christ's work rather than competing for personal prominence.

4. EVERY MEMBER MUST CONTRIBUTE TO THE UNITY OF THE CHURCH

A united church is not built by the pastor alone, the church leaders alone, or a particular department. Every believer has a responsibility to protect and strengthen the fellowship. Unity requires the participation of the entire congregation.

In Philippians 2:4, Paul instructs believers not to look only on their own things but also on the things of others. This means that we must develop a community-minded attitude. We must learn to think beyond personal interests and become concerned about the spiritual health, welfare, and progress of the entire church.

a. EVERY MEMBER MUST BE A PEACEMAKER (Matthew 5:9)

Jesus declared that peacemakers are blessed and shall be called the children of God. A peacemaker does not spread rumours, encourage quarrels, or take pleasure in conflict.

A church needs members who can calm tensions, promote understanding, and help resolve disagreements in a godly manner.

Practical application: Do not spread negative reports or gossip. When misunderstandings arise, seek truth, peace, and reconciliation.

b. EVERY MEMBER MUST USE THEIR GIFTS TO BUILD THE CHURCH (1 Peter 4:10)

God has given different gifts to different members, and each believer is expected to use those gifts to serve others. The church grows stronger when members make their abilities available for God's work.

Some can teach, others can sing, organise, give, encourage, pray, evangelise, or provide practical assistance. No gift should be despised, and no member should remain unnecessarily inactive.

Practical application: Discover your gifts and become actively involved in a department or ministry where you can serve effectively.

c. EVERY MEMBER MUST PROTECT THE CHURCH'S TESTIMONY (Ephesians 4:29)

Paul teaches that our speech should be wholesome and should minister grace to those who hear. Words have the power to build relationships or destroy them.

A united church must guard against gossip, slander, false accusations, destructive criticism, and careless communication. What members say about one another can either strengthen or weaken the congregation.

Practical application: Speak words that encourage, correct in love, and refuse to participate in conversations designed to destroy another person's reputation.

d. EVERY MEMBER MUST SUPPORT THE VISION OF THE CHURCH (1 Corinthians 3:9)

The Bible describes believers as labourers together with God. This reveals that the work of the kingdom is a collective responsibility.

A church cannot make meaningful progress when only a few people carry the burden while others remain indifferent. Members must support the church's biblical vision through prayer, service, giving, evangelism, and cooperation.

Practical application: Understand the vision of your local church and contribute your time, prayers, gifts, and resources towards its fulfilment.

Biblical Example: Nehemiah and the Builders of Jerusalem (Nehemiah 3:1-32; 4:6)

When Nehemiah led the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, different families and groups worked on different sections. Despite opposition, they continued until the wall was completed. Nehemiah 4:6 records that the people had a mind to work. Their collective commitment demonstrates the power of unity in accomplishing a great assignment.

5. A UNITED CHURCH BECOMES A POWERFUL WITNESS TO THE WORLD

The Church is called to represent Christ before a watching world. Our unity is not only for our internal benefit; it is also part of our testimony to unbelievers. When people see believers demonstrating genuine love, cooperation, generosity, and peace, they receive a practical picture of the transforming power of the gospel.

A divided church weakens its witness, but a united church creates an environment where people can encounter Christ and experience the love of God. Unity strengthens evangelism, encourages spiritual growth, and helps the Church fulfil its mission.

a. UNITY STRENGTHENS THE TESTIMONY OF THE GOSPEL (John 17:21)

Jesus prayed that His followers would be one so that the world might believe that the Father had sent Him. This shows that the unity of the Church has an evangelistic purpose.

When believers fight among themselves, unbelievers may question the reality of the love they preach. But when the Church demonstrates genuine unity, its testimony becomes more credible.

Practical application: Let your relationships with fellow believers support the message of salvation you share with the world.

b. UNITY ENCOURAGES SPIRITUAL GROWTH (Acts 2:42-47)

The early church continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayers. They shared life together, worshipped together, and supported one another.

Their unity created an environment where people were strengthened in faith and new believers were added to the Church.

Practical application: Participate actively in worship, Bible study, prayer meetings, and fellowship. Help create an atmosphere where every believer can grow.

c. UNITY INCREASES THE EFFECTIVENESS OF CORPORATE PRAYER (Acts 4:23-31)

When the early believers faced opposition, they gathered together and lifted their voices to God with one accord. Their united prayer was followed by a powerful manifestation of God's presence and boldness to preach His Word.

There is spiritual strength in believers praying together with one heart and a common commitment to God's purpose.

Practical application: Participate in corporate prayer and intercession. Pray for the pastor, leaders, members, families, and the advancement of God's kingdom.

d. UNITY HELPS THE CHURCH FULFIL ITS GREAT COMMISSION (Matthew 28:19-20)

Jesus commissioned the Church to make disciples of all nations. This assignment requires cooperation, sacrifice, planning, prayer, and the participation of believers.

A divided church wastes energy on internal conflict, but a united church directs its strength towards reaching the lost and building disciples.

Practical application: Support evangelism, missions, discipleship, and outreach programmes. Let every member become a partner in fulfilling the Great Commission.

Biblical Example: The Church at Antioch (Acts 13:1-3)

The church at Antioch demonstrated spiritual unity through worship, fasting, and prayer. As they ministered to the Lord, the Holy Spirit directed them to separate Barnabas and Saul for missionary work. Their united spiritual life became the foundation for a missionary movement that advanced the gospel to other regions.

CONCLUSION

The power of a church is not measured only by its numerical strength, financial resources, beautiful facilities, or impressive programmes. A truly powerful church is one whose members are united in Christ, bound together by genuine love, guided by humility, and committed to a common purpose. When believers walk in unity, they become stronger in fellowship, more effective in service, and more convincing in their witness to the world.

Every member must therefore become a builder of unity rather than an agent of division. Let us reject jealousy, gossip, selfish ambition, bitterness, and unnecessary competition. Let us choose love, forgiveness, humility, cooperation, and mutual support. May our churches become places where believers dwell together in unity, God's presence is honoured, lives are transformed, and the gospel advances with power.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, make our church one in spirit and purpose in Jesus name.

2. Lord, remove every spirit of division and strife from our midst in Jesus name.

3. Father, fill every member with genuine love for one another in Jesus name.

4. Lord, give us the humility to serve and honour one another in Jesus name.

5. Father, make every member a builder of unity in Jesus name.

6. Lord, deliver our church from gossip, jealousy, and bitterness in Jesus name.

7. Father, unite our pastors, leaders, workers, and members in Jesus name.

8. Lord, strengthen our fellowship and corporate prayer life in Jesus name.

9. Father, make our church a powerful witness to our community in Jesus name.

10. Lord, let our unity produce spiritual growth and kingdom advancement in Jesus name.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. Your church shall grow stronger in love and unity.

2. Every spirit of division shall lose its influence in your fellowship.

3. Your church shall become a dwelling place of peace and spiritual strength.

4. Every member shall discover and fulfil their place in God's work.

5. Your pastors, leaders, workers, and members shall work together in one spirit.

6. The love of Christ shall become visible in your church.

7. Your church shall experience fresh strength in prayer and fellowship.

8. Your congregation shall become a powerful witness to your community.

9. The work of God in your church shall advance without unnecessary division.

10. Your church shall fulfil God's purpose and bring glory to Jesus Christ.

FINAL CHARGE

Do not be the person who tears down what others are building. Be a builder of unity, a promoter of peace, and an instrument of love in the house of God. Do not allow personal ambition, jealousy, offence, or misunderstanding to destroy the fellowship of God's people.

Remember, a united church is a powerful church. When we stand together in Christ, love one another, and work with one purpose, the kingdom of God advances and the world sees the reality of Jesus Christ. Let us be united, and let Christ be glorified!