A Bigger Story—Week 2: United in Christ

Introduction

Welcome to Week 2 of our series "A Bigger Story." Today, we explore the theme of unity and oneness in Christ. Let's delve into how God has made us alive in Christ and given us the mission to create a dwelling place for Him on earth through unity, harmony, and love.

1. Understanding the Bigger Story

Last week, we learned that Christianity is not just a set of beliefs but a grand narrative. The story begins in Genesis with the phrase "In the beginning..." and culminates in God creating humankind, breathing His spirit into them, and declaring creation "very good."

2. Unity in Creation

The creation stories in Genesis and John 1 reveal God's essence of unity.

Genesis 1:27-28 (NLT): "So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Then God blessed them and said, 'Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it.'"

John 1:1-2 (NLT): "In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God."

3. The Fall and Fragmentation

Genesis 3 describes humanity's fall, leading to separation from God, each other, and the created order. This fragmentation manifests in racial prejudice, gender tension, religious hatred, economic disparity, and political division.

4. The Primal Longing for Unity

Despite the fragmentation, there is an inherent longing for unity within us. This longing is evident in historical moments and cultural expressions: Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech. John Lennon's song "Imagine." The 1971 Coca-Cola commercial, "I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing."

5. God's Solution: Alive in Christ

Ephesians 2:1-9 (NLT): We were once spiritually dead, but God, rich in mercy, made us alive in Christ.

Ephesians 1:19-20 (NLT): "I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead."

6. Our Mission: Work for Unity

Ephesians 2:10 (NLT): "For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago."

Ephesians 1:10 (NLT): "And this is the plan: At the right time he will bring everything together under the authority of Christ—everything in heaven and on earth."

John 17:21-23 (NLT): Jesus' prayer for unity among His followers.

7. Images of Oneness in Christ

One Nation: Ephesians 2:11-13 (NLT) - No separation between Jew and Gentile.

One Race: Ephesians 2:14-18 (NLT) - Christ unites Jews and Gentiles into one people.

One Family: Ephesians 2:19 (NLT) - We are members of God's family.

One House: Ephesians 2:20-22 (NLT) - We are the house where God lives by His Spirit.

8. Practical Application

Reflect on your unique role in promoting unity this week.

Ephesians 4:3 (NLT): "Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace."

Consider how your gifts and passions can serve and love those around you, acting as an ambassador of reconciliation.

Discussion Questions

1. How does understanding Christianity as a story rather than just a belief system change your perspective?

2. In what ways do you see the longing for unity expressed in our culture?

3. How can you contribute to unity within your family, church, and community this week?

This guide is designed to help you follow along with the sermon and reflect on how we can live out God's call for unity in our lives. Let's strive to be united in Christ, working together to create a dwelling place for God on earth.