I ask not only on behalf of these, but also on behalf of those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one.” vs. 20-21a
John 17:20-23
Unity was one of the biggest challenges for the early Christian community, and John addresses that issue as he recounts what is known as Jesus’ “high priestly prayer” for his disciples. These words reflect Jesus’ deepest desires for all who would one day believe in him. Simply put, he earnestly prays that they all will be one. What he has in mind is not something like one big denomination, but rather a unity that would be a reflection of the oneness that he himself had with God. It would have everything to do with their witness to the world. Imagine a Church of believers who were so connected to one another and to Jesus, that they would reflect the actual presence of God. Now that may seem a pipe dream but that is exactly what happens when we put aside our denominational and religious distinctions and unite to serve the world as the hands and the feet of Jesus. When that occurs, and it does happen, not only is the will of God being done, but the kingdom of God is being established on earth. In the context of that unconditional love and sacrificial service, not only is God revealed, but humanity flourishes. This is the way things are supposed to be!
Thought for the Day: Why is denominationalism so destructive?
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