In His ImageSample

Day 40: Image of Godly Unity in the Body of Christ

Discover: This week, we learned different aspects of unity and community built around both prideful and godly motivations. Paul emphasizes the importance of unity within the body of Christ in 1 Corinthians 12, which compares the different roles of each Christian in the metaphorical body to the literal parts of the human body. Each member has a distinct role that cannot reach its fullest potential without the help of the others. This is a Biblical type of unity that elevates the whole body while prioritizing the name of Jesus. Just as a human body needs all its parts to function to its fullest potential, the body of Christ must rely on members with different gifts to maximize its impact on the Kingdom. We all have skills, gifts, and characteristics that contribute to the building up of the body of Christ in various ways.

Learn: What does godly community truly look like? To put it simply, it is striving to be more like Jesus. This is not what we see in Genesis 11 when the tower of Babel is built, as their self-centered motivations lead to their downfall and dispersion. Acts 2 and 1 Corinthians 12 exemplify what a Christ-centered community should look like. This community works and grows to be more like our Heavenly Father. Throughout Scripture, we are commanded and encouraged to be godly, and all throughout the New Testament, we are called to be more like Christ. No matter where we come from or our experiences, we all have a role to further the Kingdom of God through the mission to be like Jesus and encourage others to do the same.

Apply: This week, we thoroughly covered the distinction between what it means to be a part of a prideful community and a godly community. One of the most emphasized facets of the Christian faith in the Bible is the importance of surrounding oneself with godly community. Much of the New Testament consists of letters written to churches for instruction and encouragement in their faith. One of the most crucial aspects of finding a good community is the opportunity for accountability, as Paul wrote letters such as 1 Corinthians to encourage and correct the church. We should also exhort and hold our brothers and sisters in Christ accountable. Surrounding ourselves with like-minded Christians helps us all contribute and stay faithful to the body of Christ. What is the best piece of encouragement you have received from a fellow believer? How could you do better to encourage a friend or family member in their walk with Jesus? How do we hold our fellow believers accountable while maintaining and conveying a spirit of love?