There are three themes running through the New Testament:
1. Community
2. Cross
3. New Creation

Building blocks are gifts given to bring about “thy will on earth as it is in heaven” (ie. New Creation)

Unity
Apostolic Impulse
Repentance
Baptism
Rejection / Suffering
Prayer


Unity is seen in Jesus’ priestly prayer contained in John 17:21-23

As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 The glory that you have given me I have given them, so that they may be one, as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become completely one, so that the world may know that you have sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.

Unity is not a goal - It is a gift.

Unity begins with our faith in Jesus not alignment of our ideas, culture, theology, or praxis. Unity is a means of grace to bring about New Creation.

Acts 4:32-35 and Acts 2:42-47 are two passages about the church immediately after Pentecost being in one heart and one soul. They were a group of people from all over the known world who were coming to faith in Christ. As a result, God gave them common desires and common devices (ways). And the Gospel message was being spread because of the unity seen by those outside of faith.

Opportunities for unity within the church today:
1. Race relations
2. Economic injustice
3. LGBTQ inclusion

If we are to embrace the means of grace called unity we will:
1. Prayer together (not just for a day or a reason but a season)
2. Listen with humility
3. Commit to remain