One in Christ

As one in Christ, we are gifts of God to the Lord Jesus Christ. How amazing is that? Knowing then that we were set apart by God from before the foundation of the world, let us live to the glory of God, seeking to fulfill all that He has created us to do.

18. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.

19. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.

20. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;

21. That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.

22. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:

23. I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.

24. Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.

John 17:18-24, King James Version

One in Christ

How many times is the word "one" used in these verses from John 17. I count five times, and that is just in three verses. When we see that much repetition, we should take a moment to ponder what Christ is obviously emphasizing.

Not only does Jesus use the word "one," but He also states, That they may be one, even as we are one. Jesus and God are one, even as we should be one in them.

I do believe in doctrinal integrity, and I understand how it happened, but it is so sad to see the church of God so fractured in our day. It has certainly diminished our ability to affect the world with the Gospel of Christ. Often they ask, "If they cannot agree on what they believe, how would I know who to believe?"

I have always said that one of the greatest miracles in heaven will be that we will all believe exactly the same thing! Any divisions that exist in this world will be gone.

So, what can we do about this situation? We cannot change it, however, I would challenge believers to quit spending time berating other groups, and take that same time to reach the lost who live around us. The "crop" is there, and it is white unto harvest.

One in Christ! Lord, hasten the day!

Next: Love of God - verses 25-26