Your Daily Devotion
from Gary Hamrick
... Senior Pastor of Cornerstone Chapel
One in Christ
... True unity is found where Christ is honored and self is surrendered
John 17:20–21 NKJV (devotion translation)
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.
Devotion:
On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus prayed not only for His disciples, but also for all who would later believe in Him. This includes every believer today. His prayer was centered on one clear desire—that His people would be one. This unity is not merely outward agreement or shared activity; it reflects the very relationship between the Father and the Son.
Biblical unity begins with truth. It is grounded in a shared relationship with Christ and shaped by His Word. It does not ignore differences, but brings them into harmony under the lordship of Jesus. Just as the Father and Son are perfectly united in purpose and nature, believers are called into a spiritual oneness that flows from God Himself.
This kind of unity cannot be manufactured by human effort alone. It is given by God, yet it must be carefully maintained. The struggle against division often reveals the presence of self-centeredness. Where pride and self-interest remain, unity weakens. But where Christ is honored and others are valued above self, unity grows.
Jesus’ prayer also reveals that unity has a purpose beyond the church. It serves as a testimony to the world that He was sent by the Father. When believers walk in truth and love together, they reflect the character of God in a way that words alone cannot express.
Therefore, unity is not optional for the believer—it is essential. It requires humility, forgiveness, and a steady commitment to Christ. As we abide in Him, we are drawn closer to one another in a way that honors God and strengthens His people.
Prayer:
Lord, form in me a heart that seeks unity through truth and humility, that I may reflect Your oneness with the Father; Amen.
Related Sermon:
Digging Deeper:
- Ephesians 4:1-3 - Unity is maintained through humility, patience, and love.
- Philippians 2:1-2 - Being like-minded and united in Christ reflects shared purpose in Him.
- Colossians 3:13-14 - Forgiveness and love bind believers together in perfect unity.
- 1 Corinthians 1:10 - A call to be united in mind and judgment, avoiding division.
- Psalm 133:1 - The goodness and blessing of God’s people dwelling in unity.