The Unity of the Church Part 2 Ecclesiology The Unity of the Church Part 2

Devotion Unquestionably there is a necessary unity of the body in order to maintain its functionality. Each member must recognize and perform its role well or the body is hindered. (1 Cor. 12:12-26) The body of Christ whether eternal or local, is not so much loyal to the body as to the head of the body. As the body functions as a cohesive whole, it is able to render to its head the devotion and reverence required. Christ is head of the Church and only object of its worship. (Col. 1:17,18)

The head is more important than the body The head is more important than the body. The body cannot exist without the head. Consequently the emphasis must be more upon the head than upon the body. At the same time, the body is the object of love by the head, who enables its function. (Col. 2:9-12,18-19)

The relationship is intimate, personal, and enduring The relationship is intimate, personal, and enduring. Cohesion in the body is the byproduct of its relationship to the head. Because of devotion to Christ, the emphasis of the church, even in public worship is not upon the external form but upon the condition of the heart in loyalty to Christ.

Our Relationship with Christ Christ is the great Shepherd of the flock – John 10 Christ is the Vine, we are the branches – John 15 Christ is the chief Cornerstone, we are the building – Eph. 2 Christ is the High Priest, we are a kingdom of priests – Heb. 1-10, Rev. 1,5,20 Christ is the Head, we are the body – Eph. 4,5; Col. 1,2 Christ is the Bridegroom, we are the Bride – Eph. 5, John 3, Mat. 25, Rev. 21,22

Disposition Recognizing our common bond in Christ, believers should by virtue of the new nature be kindly disposed to each other. Growth in grace should produce a spiritual maturity that recognizes our mutuality. (Eph. 4:13) It is an unconscionable mark of gross immaturity that would produce the effect of divisions and contentions. (1 Cor. 1:10-13 ; 3:1-10; 11:17-22)

By a supreme devotion to the head of the church which results in being conformed to His likeness, it is possible for believers to enjoy a relationship of mutuality. Christ demonstrated humility and compassion for others. (Phi. 2:1-8) The church is not a fraternity; it is a family.

Evidence of Biblical Unity The bond of love that distinguishes the members from an unsaved world. (John 13:35) Having the same care one for another. (1 Cor. 12:25; Rom. 12:10) Bearing one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. (Gal. 6:2) Disciplining members who are divisive. (Rom. 16:17) Receiving those who are weak. (Rom. 14:1) Tolerance of each other. (Eph. 4:2)

Needless to say, this spirit is impossible among unbelievers because it requires the work of the Holy Spirit to actuate and maintain. The Bible knows nothing of an unregenerated church member! We cannot have an effective unity without a vital union with Christ.

Direction Without reviewing the subject, the mission of the church, it is important to understand the measure of cooperation that permits the accomplishment of that mission. Believers are privileged to use their individual gifts and talents for the mutual advancement of the cause of Christ. Diversity is not a hindrance; it is an asset. (1 Cor. 12:4-7)

Pulling Together

The sheer volume of Christ honoring work accomplished by a cohesive body of believers is delightful to behold. As each sublimates his own personality for the good of the whole, the body becomes recognizable, even by the unsaved as a true representation of Christ in the world. That representation is critical. (2 Cor. 5:18-21)