January 19th, 2025
by Dalton Jenkins
by Dalton Jenkins
Make Us One - Part 1
Video
Article
Making Unity Our Mission: Lessons from Jesus's High Priestly Prayer
Jesus's high priestly prayer in John 17 reveals profound insights about unity, mission, and bringing glory to God. Just before going to Calvary, Jesus prayed not only for His immediate disciples but for all future believers - including us today.
In His final moments before Calvary, Jesus prayed a profound prayer focusing on three key groups: Himself, His immediate disciples, and future believers. Throughout this prayer, He emphasized the critical importance of unity in fulfilling God's mission and bringing glory to His name. This unity among believers mirrors the perfect unity within the Godhead between Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.Biblical unity transcends superficial similarities like preferences or appearances. Instead, it centers on being united around the gospel mission, working together to glorify God, and supporting one another in service. When believers are truly united, it demonstrates God's power to the world and enables effective mission work.Maintaining this unity requires intentional effort through practicing humility, staying connected to the body of believers, resisting division, and using our spiritual gifts to serve others. By putting God's mission above personal preferences and pursuing reconciliation in relationships, believers can work together effectively to fulfill God's purposes and bring glory to His name.
What Was Jesus's Main Focus in His Prayer?
The prayer had three key sections:
Throughout all sections, Jesus emphasized unity for the purpose of bringing glory to God. Notably absent were prayers about building great ministries or achieving fame and fortune. The singular focus was completing the Father's mission.
Why is Unity So Important to Jesus?
Unity is essential because:
What Does True Biblical Unity Look Like?
Biblical unity doesn't mean:
Rather, true unity means:
How Do We Achieve Unity?
Unity requires:
Life Application
This week, consider:
Questions for reflection:
The challenge is to evaluate every area of life - work, relationships, decisions - through the lens of "Will this bring glory to God and promote unity in the body of Christ?"
Jesus's high priestly prayer in John 17 reveals profound insights about unity, mission, and bringing glory to God. Just before going to Calvary, Jesus prayed not only for His immediate disciples but for all future believers - including us today.
In His final moments before Calvary, Jesus prayed a profound prayer focusing on three key groups: Himself, His immediate disciples, and future believers. Throughout this prayer, He emphasized the critical importance of unity in fulfilling God's mission and bringing glory to His name. This unity among believers mirrors the perfect unity within the Godhead between Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.Biblical unity transcends superficial similarities like preferences or appearances. Instead, it centers on being united around the gospel mission, working together to glorify God, and supporting one another in service. When believers are truly united, it demonstrates God's power to the world and enables effective mission work.Maintaining this unity requires intentional effort through practicing humility, staying connected to the body of believers, resisting division, and using our spiritual gifts to serve others. By putting God's mission above personal preferences and pursuing reconciliation in relationships, believers can work together effectively to fulfill God's purposes and bring glory to His name.
What Was Jesus's Main Focus in His Prayer?
The prayer had three key sections:
- Prayer for Himself
- Prayer for His immediate disciples
- Prayer for future believers
Throughout all sections, Jesus emphasized unity for the purpose of bringing glory to God. Notably absent were prayers about building great ministries or achieving fame and fortune. The singular focus was completing the Father's mission.
Why is Unity So Important to Jesus?
Unity is essential because:
- It reflects the unity within the Godhead (Father, Son, Holy Spirit)
- It enables effective mission fulfillment
- It brings glory to God
- Disunity creates confusion and dishonors God
What Does True Biblical Unity Look Like?
Biblical unity doesn't mean:
- Liking the same foods
- Dressing the same way
- Having identical preferences
Rather, true unity means:
- Being united around the gospel of Jesus Christ
- Working together to fulfill God's mission
- Putting God's glory above personal preferences
- Supporting one another in service
How Do We Achieve Unity?
Unity requires:
- Humility and selflessness
- Focus on bringing glory to God rather than self
- Using our spiritual gifts to build up others
- Staying connected to the body of believers
- Resisting the enemy's attempts to divide
Life Application
This week, consider:
- How can you align your daily actions and decisions with the purpose of bringing glory to God?
- In what specific ways can you foster unity in your relationships and community?
- What attitudes or actions might be causing disunity that you need to address?
Questions for reflection:
- Are you more focused on personal preferences or God's mission?
- How can you better use your spiritual gifts to build unity?
- What steps can you take to resist division and promote unity?
The challenge is to evaluate every area of life - work, relationships, decisions - through the lens of "Will this bring glory to God and promote unity in the body of Christ?"
Daily Devotion
Day 1: United in Purpose
Devotional
Have you ever watched a team of rowers gliding smoothly across the water? Their success depends entirely on moving in perfect synchronization. If even one person rows out of rhythm, the entire boat's progress is disrupted. Similarly, our effectiveness as believers depends on our unity of purpose. Just as Jesus demonstrated perfect unity with the Father, we're called to work together in harmony, focused on the singular mission of glorifying God. This unity isn't about conforming to the same preferences or styles - it's about aligning our hearts with God's purpose. When we unite around the gospel message, we become a powerful testimony to the world of God's transforming love.
Bible Verse
I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. - John 17:20-21
Reflection Question
In what ways might your personal preferences or comfort zones be hindering unity with other believers in your church community?
Quote
One does not mean we have to like the same food, wear the same color and dress the same way. That's not the unity I'm talking about. I'm talking about unity around the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to see beyond surface-level differences and focus on the greater purpose You've called us to. Guide me in fostering unity that brings glory to Your name. Amen.
Day 2: The Power of Unity
Devotional
Think about a beautiful choir performing in perfect harmony. Each voice is unique, yet when blended together, they create something magnificent that no single voice could achieve alone. This is God's vision for His church. When we work together in unity, we become a powerful force for His kingdom. However, this unity requires intentional effort and vigilance. The enemy knows the strength that comes from our unity and actively works to create division. By staying connected to our church family and maintaining strong relationships, we build a fortress against these attacks.
Bible Verse
Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. - Philippians 2:1-4
Reflection Question
What specific steps can you take this week to strengthen your connection with your church family and resist isolation?
Quote
One of the enemies most potent weapon is separation. If he can separate you from the saints, he got you.
Prayer
Lord, help me recognize and resist the enemy's attempts to create division. Give me the strength to maintain unity with my fellow believers, even when it's challenging. Amen.
Day 3: Serving with Purpose
Devotional
Imagine receiving a beautiful gift, only to keep it wrapped and never share it with others. That's what happens when we don't use our spiritual gifts to serve the body of Christ. God has uniquely equipped each of us with abilities and talents, not for our own benefit, but for building up the entire church. When we serve others with our gifts, we contribute to the unity and strength of the body. This service isn't about recognition or personal gain - it's about glorifying God and advancing His kingdom through our collective efforts.
Bible Verse
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. - Matthew 5:16
Reflection Question
How are you currently using your spiritual gifts to serve others and strengthen the unity of your church?
Quote
Your gift is not for you. Your gift is given for the edification of the body, building up of the saints.
Prayer
Father, show me how to use the gifts You've given me to serve others and build up Your church. Help me to serve with humility and joy. Amen.
Day 4: Humility in Unity
Devotional
Pride is like a wedge that slowly drives people apart. It whispers that we're better than others or that our way is the only right way. But true unity flourishes in the soil of humility. Jesus exemplified this perfectly - though He was God, He humbled Himself to serve others. When we follow His example, putting others' needs before our own preferences, we create an environment where unity can thrive. This might mean listening more than speaking, serving without recognition, or supporting others' ideas instead of always pushing our own.
Bible Verse
Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. - Philippians 2:6-8
Reflection Question
In what areas of your life might pride be hindering your ability to maintain unity with others?
Quote
Pride is not in unity. Comprise yourself better than everybody else.
Prayer
Dear God, grant me the humility to see others as You see them and to serve them as Jesus did. Help me put aside pride for the sake of unity. Amen.
Day 5: Glory Through Unity
Devotional
When we work together in unity, something beautiful happens - God receives glory. Like a masterful symphony where each instrument plays its part perfectly, our unity creates a testimony that draws others to Christ. This unity isn't just about getting along; it's about actively pursuing God's mission together. When we set aside our personal agendas and focus on glorifying God, we fulfill the prayer Jesus prayed before His crucifixion. Our unity becomes a powerful witness to the world of God's transforming love.
Bible Verse
Therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's. - 1 Corinthians 10:31
Reflection Question
How can you actively contribute to unity in your church in a way that brings glory to God?
Quote
Unity equals glorification. Disunity brings shame to the glory of God.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help us work together in such perfect harmony that others see Your glory through our unity. Use our unified efforts to draw others to You. Amen.
Devotional
Have you ever watched a team of rowers gliding smoothly across the water? Their success depends entirely on moving in perfect synchronization. If even one person rows out of rhythm, the entire boat's progress is disrupted. Similarly, our effectiveness as believers depends on our unity of purpose. Just as Jesus demonstrated perfect unity with the Father, we're called to work together in harmony, focused on the singular mission of glorifying God. This unity isn't about conforming to the same preferences or styles - it's about aligning our hearts with God's purpose. When we unite around the gospel message, we become a powerful testimony to the world of God's transforming love.
Bible Verse
I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. - John 17:20-21
Reflection Question
In what ways might your personal preferences or comfort zones be hindering unity with other believers in your church community?
Quote
One does not mean we have to like the same food, wear the same color and dress the same way. That's not the unity I'm talking about. I'm talking about unity around the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to see beyond surface-level differences and focus on the greater purpose You've called us to. Guide me in fostering unity that brings glory to Your name. Amen.
Day 2: The Power of Unity
Devotional
Think about a beautiful choir performing in perfect harmony. Each voice is unique, yet when blended together, they create something magnificent that no single voice could achieve alone. This is God's vision for His church. When we work together in unity, we become a powerful force for His kingdom. However, this unity requires intentional effort and vigilance. The enemy knows the strength that comes from our unity and actively works to create division. By staying connected to our church family and maintaining strong relationships, we build a fortress against these attacks.
Bible Verse
Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. - Philippians 2:1-4
Reflection Question
What specific steps can you take this week to strengthen your connection with your church family and resist isolation?
Quote
One of the enemies most potent weapon is separation. If he can separate you from the saints, he got you.
Prayer
Lord, help me recognize and resist the enemy's attempts to create division. Give me the strength to maintain unity with my fellow believers, even when it's challenging. Amen.
Day 3: Serving with Purpose
Devotional
Imagine receiving a beautiful gift, only to keep it wrapped and never share it with others. That's what happens when we don't use our spiritual gifts to serve the body of Christ. God has uniquely equipped each of us with abilities and talents, not for our own benefit, but for building up the entire church. When we serve others with our gifts, we contribute to the unity and strength of the body. This service isn't about recognition or personal gain - it's about glorifying God and advancing His kingdom through our collective efforts.
Bible Verse
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. - Matthew 5:16
Reflection Question
How are you currently using your spiritual gifts to serve others and strengthen the unity of your church?
Quote
Your gift is not for you. Your gift is given for the edification of the body, building up of the saints.
Prayer
Father, show me how to use the gifts You've given me to serve others and build up Your church. Help me to serve with humility and joy. Amen.
Day 4: Humility in Unity
Devotional
Pride is like a wedge that slowly drives people apart. It whispers that we're better than others or that our way is the only right way. But true unity flourishes in the soil of humility. Jesus exemplified this perfectly - though He was God, He humbled Himself to serve others. When we follow His example, putting others' needs before our own preferences, we create an environment where unity can thrive. This might mean listening more than speaking, serving without recognition, or supporting others' ideas instead of always pushing our own.
Bible Verse
Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. - Philippians 2:6-8
Reflection Question
In what areas of your life might pride be hindering your ability to maintain unity with others?
Quote
Pride is not in unity. Comprise yourself better than everybody else.
Prayer
Dear God, grant me the humility to see others as You see them and to serve them as Jesus did. Help me put aside pride for the sake of unity. Amen.
Day 5: Glory Through Unity
Devotional
When we work together in unity, something beautiful happens - God receives glory. Like a masterful symphony where each instrument plays its part perfectly, our unity creates a testimony that draws others to Christ. This unity isn't just about getting along; it's about actively pursuing God's mission together. When we set aside our personal agendas and focus on glorifying God, we fulfill the prayer Jesus prayed before His crucifixion. Our unity becomes a powerful witness to the world of God's transforming love.
Bible Verse
Therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's. - 1 Corinthians 10:31
Reflection Question
How can you actively contribute to unity in your church in a way that brings glory to God?
Quote
Unity equals glorification. Disunity brings shame to the glory of God.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help us work together in such perfect harmony that others see Your glory through our unity. Use our unified efforts to draw others to You. Amen.
Group Discussion
Small Group Guide: "Make Us One"
Opening Prayer
Key Scripture: John 17:1-26, Philippians 2:1-11
Discussion Questions:
Key Takeaways:
Practical Applications:
Opening Prayer
Key Scripture: John 17:1-26, Philippians 2:1-11
Discussion Questions:
- What stood out to you most from the sermon? Why?
- Pastor Jenkins emphasized Jesus' focus on unity and bringing glory to God. How do you see this playing out in your own life and in our church community?
- Discuss the concept of being a "bondservant" to Christ. What challenges or benefits do you see in fully surrendering your will to God's?
- How can we practically foster unity within our church and small group, even when we have differences?
- The sermon mentioned that our gifts are for the edification of the body, not just for ourselves. What gifts do you have that you could use more intentionally to build up others?
- Reflect on the statement: "It's not about how I feel, but about what God wants." How can we apply this mindset in our daily lives, especially during challenging times?
Key Takeaways:
- Unity among believers brings glory to God and serves as a witness to the world.
- Everything we do should ultimately be to bring glory to God.
- We are called to be "bondservants" of Christ, fully committed to His mission.
- Disunity hinders our effectiveness in spreading the gospel.
- Our gifts are given for the benefit of the entire body of Christ, not just ourselves.
Practical Applications:
- This week, before making decisions, pause and ask: "Will this bring glory to God?"
- Identify one area of potential disunity in your life or church and take a step towards reconciliation.
- Choose one spiritual gift you have and find a specific way to use it to serve others this week.
- Memorize Philippians 2:3-4 as a reminder to cultivate humility and unity.
- Commit to praying daily for unity within our church and the broader Body of Christ.
- Closing Prayer: Lord, make us one as You and the Father are one. Help us to align our lives with Your mission and to bring glory to Your name in all we do. Give us hearts of humility and love for one another. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Dalton Jenkins
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