The Church: The Body of ChristSample

There’s not a lot of Scripture that’s directly about us: Most of it is written to different people, in different cultures and times. But the Scripture you’re about to read is actually for us and about us. The following verses are part of a prayer Jesus prayed right before he was taken to be crucified. In those final hours with his disciples, Jesus passionately prayed for future believers–us! And more than anything, he wanted us to experience unity.

In a world that seems more bitterly divided than ever, how can believers from different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences have unity? Only through the power of the Holy Spirit. Remember, unity doesn’t mean erasing what makes us different. God designed those differences to make our bond richer and stronger. When we’re united in our love for God and others, our individual differences become ways we teach each other and reach the world with the message of hope!

Jesus prays that we will experience “perfect unity,” and one day we will–when he returns. Until that day, our churches will fall short of perfection. But even in our imperfect, broken way, we can show the world what it looks like for the family of God to work together and strive for unity.

Read: John 17:20-26

Reflection Questions:

• We live in a divided world where the sin of racism and tensions between cultures cause pain and suffering. How can the church offer an answer for bridging these divides?
• No church community is perfect, but if you find yourself constantly pointing out differences and feeling disappointed in the people around you, ask God to shift your mindset. Instead of focusing on areas in which they are falling short, ask God to show you ways you can live out the type of community you want to be a part of.
• Follow Jesus’ example and take some time to pray for unity in your local church and for Christians throughout the world. Ask God to show you how you can bring peace, understanding, and unity to the believers around you.