(The following is the August 20 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read Galatians 3 and pay close attention to verses 27-29.)
Many communities suffer from divisions between groups. Differences related to race, ethnicity, religion, socio-economic status, gender, politics, and other means of identification can contribute to chasms between groups and individuals who act with ignorance and prejudice against those who are different. Concerned citizens and organizations may make admirable efforts to bridge the gaps between estranged groups. Still, no solution is as complete and eternal as when people from all walks of life unite in the church as brothers and sisters in Christ. When believers worship and serve Christ together, divisions give way to meaningful, lasting unity.
Paul wrote, “For those of you who were baptized into Christ have been clothed with Christ. There is no Jew or Greek, slave or free, male and female; since you are all one in Christ Jesus” (vv. 27-28). That was a radical claim for the first century. There were enormous divisions between Jews and Greeks, and no society has ever considered enslaved and free persons equal. The status of men and women was vastly different. Yet Paul claims such divisions disappear regarding our standing before God once we are in Christ. All have equal access to the Father and become spiritual brothers and sisters.
Should Christians care about racism, ethnic prejudice, sexism, and other societal issues and sources of division? Absolutely. And the great news is that we have the eternal and best solution – a common faith in Christ. Unity found in Christ’s body, the church, can overcome the most perplexing societal chasms. There may well remain personal prejudices to conquer under the Holy Spirit’s guidance, but we must pursue Christian unity for God’s glory and our witness in the world.
Next Step:
What harmful divisions have you observed between groups in your community? What actions can you take to help overcome them?
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