United in CompetitionSample

God’s Math For Unity

Ready: “Above all, you must live as citizens of Heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News.” –Philippians 1:27

Set: As a college football coach, my definition of unity has largely been shaped by what I experience every Saturday in the fall. Stadiums filled to capacity, crowds roaring in unison, voices combining to deafening levels, making it nearly impossible to communicate on the field.

My definition of unity—as well as the world’s—is usually based on quantity. Vast numbers of people joining forces as one. That isn’t necessarily wrong, but I believe the Word of God emphasizes the quality of unity far more than the quantity.

I see God’s math for unity is different than mine. In His economy, true unity for His followers (the Church) subtracts before it adds, and divides before it multiplies.

After Jesus ascended to heaven, we read in Acts how the first century church shared His Word amidst incredible persecution—unafraid of prison or death. The numbers initially reduced due to the fear of man, but then they vastly multiplied as the unsaved world saw faithful Christians living out a unique love for their “Coach” and “teammates.” As God’s Word was preached and believers sacrificially lived as great teammates, the church spread powerfully across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East—eventually reaching the entire world.

"We should stand firm as one, joining together in peace to go out among the world and bring Jesus to the masses. The task ahead is daunting only if we try to do it alone. Together is better. Together, we are stronger and more capable to share Him, all for His glory." – Ron Brown

Go:

1. When are you tempted to pull away from others instead of recognizing your need for community?
2. How might you ask God to bring unity with those around you?
3. What can your team do today to become a closer-knit unit?

Overtime: Father, in the backwards living of faith, you call for selflessness over self. Help me recognize the importance of those around me, and stand with my brothers and sisters in unity for Your glory. Amen.