Dan concludes our United series, by speaking on one last important characteristic that unites us all: love.
Unity
United: Gender Equality
Is it possible in the aftermath of #MeToo and #ChurchToo movements for men and women to actually find hope and healing and create a better world and a better church—together? What about when there is theological disagreement around the role of women in leadership? How can we walk in unity together - as men and women - in life and in the church?
United: Characteristics That Unite (PEACEMAKING)
To follow Jesus is to pursue peace. Peace in our world, peace in our relationships, and peace with ourselves. And without this peace, unity is not possible and we will always find ourselves in conflicts and divisions. So what does it look like to live as a peacemaker in this season? How can we, who are followers of Jesus, work to bring peace in to the different areas of brokenness and division in our life and world?
United: Characteristics That Unite (GENTLENESS)
It’s been said that “gentleness” is not an optional extra but instead is “the true and distinguishing disposition of the hearts of Christians.” It is the one of the most Christ-like characteristics that we can embrace, as challenging as it may be. So how can we, as unity-builders who are committed to following Jesus, live in to gentleness in the midst of such a divided and polarized times? And what makes gentleness so important?
United: First Nations People and The Church
Sadly, the church in Canada does not have a good track record with First Nations people. Whether we’re talking about colonialism, the church’s role in residential schools, or just the on-going ostracization and polarization of indigenous people in Canada today - the church has often failed to love indigenous Canadians well. So what can we do about it? How can we, as followers of Jesus, become bridge-builders and embrace unity with our First Nations brothers and sisters? And how can the good news of Jesus guide and shape our efforts?
United: Race and the Church
Race. Sadly, it’s an issue that has divided the church for centuries. So how can we, as followers of Jesus, be intentional to build bridges across racial, ethical and cultural divides? And how can the good news of Jesus guide and shape our efforts? What does it look like to be united in Christ, despite these differences?
United: When We Disagree (about “How”)
One of the main reasons churches divide is because of people’s personal preferences; the style of music, the way the pastor preaches, the way our small group studies the Bible, the ways the church does or does not engage the community, the ways the church does or does not meet my families needs etc… But how should the good news of Jesus shape the way we approach these sorts of disagreements in the church?
United: When We Disagree (Theologically)
Theology is critical to a life of faith as it helps us to understand who God is better and unite with other Christians in the faith. But sadly, theology can also be one of those things that divides Christians. But why? And what do we do when we disagree theologically with one another, even about really important matters? Does it always have to end in division? Jesus invites us into a better way.
United: No More “Us vs Them”
Many Christians spend a lot of time worrying about who’s in and who’s out, but Jesus didn’t do that. Jesus didn’t play the “us verses them” game but instead created space for everybody. How can we, as followers of Jesus, become unity builders who also create space and refuse to exclude?
United: Jesus’ Prayer for Unity
Just before Jesus was arrested, He spent some time in prayer for us. Prayed for us. He prayed that “they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you.” (John 17:21, NLT). Clearly, unity is an issue that is very close to the heart of Jesus and something He deeply desires amongst his followers.
The question is “How”? How can we walk in unity and experience oneness? What does it look like to be UNITED in Christ, particularly during this time of polarization and division? And why does it matter?
