Message Title: Unity & Honor
Date: August 16, 2020

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Not agreeing = Tension
Wanting to crush (destroy) or push away (dismiss) = Problem

So is it possible to have unity when we have such differing opinions?
And what are the consequences if we don't seek unity?

Big Idea: Unity comes through honor

"UNIFORMITY" in our beliefs and actions is not always possible, but UNITY in our approach with one another is possible."

Summary of Passage: John 17:20-23
--Who? Praying for those who believe and will believe in Jesus
--What? Wants them to reflect the complete unity of the Trinity
--Why? World will believe Jesus was sent and loved by God
--How? Remain connected to Trinity (in us) and rely on His strength (glory)

Reflection Question 2:
Which of these one line summaries are you drawn to most?
--Unity has the power to change the world.
--Stop being a jerk so others can be with Jesus.
--Put your kingdom allegiance over your earthly alliances (views).
--I don’t need to be right, I’d rather be salt and light.
--Keep the band together for the world needs its music.

"If you are not seeking unity, you are seeking selfishness."

John 20:21 ...that all of them may be one....

Unity is possible in differences if you:
1. Have oneness with God
2. Have honor toward the other person

Honorable Assumptions (Third Option - Miles McPherson)
--Both made in the image of God and works in progress
--Both have more in common than realize
--Both need to understand the other's story
--Both need heathy communication over time for best outcome

PCC BENEDICTION
May you jump into the arms of Jesus and may He push out into the world. May you be healed as you participate in the healing of others. Not because you must, but because you may. This is why we were born!

BEYOND SUNDAY
PCC’s One Kingdom. Indivisible. series will provide an overview of the Kingdom of God, as it is taught throughout Scripture. The hope is to provide a Christ-like lens for how the Church can be a unified voice of good news in a uniquely and profoundly divided country. This week we learn from Jesus’ prayer for believers with regards to the need and impact of unity.

1. Recently, which of the following issues have caused tension in a relationship? Who was it with? Were you able to honor the other person in the conversation and remain united as individuals or did it cause division between you both?-government (tax, capital punishment, Covid-19, etc.)-theological (the role of women, church leadership structure, human sexuality, etc.)-political/social (election, BLM, marijuana, minority rights, etc.), -personality or preferences.

2. Ponder this quote the message, “Uniformity in our beliefs and actions is not always possible, but unity in our approach with one another is possible.” What is this saying to you? Do you really think this is possible? What hinders having unity in our approach with another person?

3. Meditate on John 17:20-23. For whom and what is Jesus praying for? Why was having unity with one another important then and now? How do you see disunity in the church hinder the message of God’s from reaching the world? How have you seen unity in the church help the message of God’s love reach the world?

4. Ponder these passages Romans 12:10, Philippians 2:3-4and this quote from the message. “If you are not seeking unity (with another), you are seeking selfishness. And if you are seeking selfishness, you are playing earth and not kingdom.” What causes you to choose selfishness over unity with another person? And how do you feel about having the responsibility as a Christ follower to be kingdom minded and the one to seek unity in your approach with others?

5. Reread John 17:21-22. Notice the terms “in us” and “given them the glory (which means strength).” To remain one and united with each other takes supernatural support through oneness with God. How has He provided this in the past for you? How could you connect with Him and gain His strength in a current or future challenging relational situation?

6. Along with having oneness with God, seeking to have honor toward the person is essential to have unity when we have difference. Review the “Honorable Assumptions” that we should hold before us when attempting to have a uniting approach with another. Which one is most challenging for you to hold?
a. Both made in the image of God and works in progress
b. Both have more in common than realize
c. Both need to understand the other’s story
d. Both need healthy communication over time for best outcome

7. Who is God calling you to be more united with? And what will happen if you do or don’t?

Prayer: Lord help me to play kingdom and bring a uniting approach with others when there are differences. Through greater oneness with You may I gain strength, reflect you more and may your receive the glory.

Resources: (see links below)
Bible Project Video: Gospel of the Kingdom
PCC Series Web Page: One Kingdom Indivisible
The Third Option: Hope for a Racially Divided Nation by Miles McPherson
PCC Family Ministries: Table Talker for August 16, 2020

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