The church is called to live as one for the sake of the world. As Archbishop William Temple once said, “The church is the only organization that exists for the benefit of its non-members.”
(Hebrews 10:19-25)
Sermon Outline
“Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:19-25)
3 ways that we can show Unity:
- Let us draw near to God (vs. 22)
- Let us hold tight to Jesus (vs. 23)
- Let us encourage each other (vss. 24-25)
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Introduction:
- Why is it difficult to talk about unity in the Church?
- Is a message on unity needed now, why or why not?
Dig Deeper:
The author of Hebrews gives us 3 practical ways we can show unity in the Church: The first is drawing near to God.
- How does this look practically in my life? In our Church’s life?
- How does keeping my focus on God, affect the way I view those I disagree with? The second way we can show unity in the Church is to hold tight to Jesus
- How does holding tight to Jesus, affect our unity at Eastbrook?
- Are we as individuals, or as a Church known more for what we are against or what we are for?
The final way we show unity is through encouraging each other.
- Discuss a time when someone encouraged you.
- How can we continue to build a culture of encouragement at Eastbrook?
- How can I encourage someone this week?