There is something precious about the unity of true believers. Though we come from many nations, backgrounds, and stories, every child of God shares a common bond—one forged by grace, sealed by the Spirit, and centered in Christ. In a world marked by division and self-interest, the Church stands as a living testimony that in Christ, we are one. Let us walk thoughtfully through what the Scriptures say every believer possesses without exception.
Hints for Teachers
First, we have a common interest in Christ. Jude writes, “To those who are called, loved by God the Father, and kept for Jesus Christ: Mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you” (Jude 1:1–2, NIV). This is not a partial calling or a selective keeping. Every believer shares in the calling of God, the love of the Father, and the secure keeping for Christ. Our very identity is rooted in His saving work.
Second, we possess a common love to Him. Paul, speaking to the Colossians, refers to “your love in the Spirit” (Colossians 1:8, BSB). The Holy Spirit plants in every believer’s heart a deep and abiding love for Christ. It may burn brighter in some moments than in others, yet it is there—a flame kindled by divine grace, drawing us ever toward our Savior.
Third, we are given a common place in His body. “For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free—and we were all given one Spirit to drink” (1 Corinthians 12:13, BSB). No believer is an isolated member. We are joined together into the body of Christ, each one essential, each one belonging. There are no second-class citizens in the kingdom of God.
Fourth, we share a common desire to glorify His Name. Paul prays, “so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and of the Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Thessalonians 1:12, BSB). In the redeemed heart, there is a yearning to see Christ exalted. Whether in life or in death, in honor or in obscurity, the believer’s prayer is: “Glorify Your Name.”
Fifth, we partake of a common love for His Word. Of the early Church it is said, “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer” (Acts 2:42, BSB). Believers are marked by a hunger for God’s truth. His Word is our food, our light, and our sword. It binds our hearts together as we grow in the knowledge and love of God.
Sixth, we labor with a common endeavor in His work. Paul exhorts, “Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that… you are standing firm in one spirit, striving side by side with one mind for the faith of the gospel” (Philippians 1:27, BSB). We are not lone workers in the field; we are fellow laborers, striving together for the advance of Christ’s kingdom.
Finally, we pursue a common aim for His glory. Paul expresses it this way: “Wherefore also we make it our aim, whether at home or absent, to be well-pleasing unto Him” (2 Corinthians 5:9, R.V.). The believer’s ambition is not fame, wealth, or comfort—but the smile of God. Whether we are in the body or with the Lord, our chief aim remains the same: to please Christ.
Every believer without exception shares in these realities. These are not lofty goals reserved for a few; they are the common inheritance of all who are in Christ Jesus. How do these shared truths stir your heart today? Are you living out the unity that Christ has already given?
To deepen your meditation, consider also:
Ephesians 4:4–6 – “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all.”
