#39: The Purpose of Unity

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<li> Email: [email protected]</li>

<li> https://apostolicinternational.com/ </li>

<li> Statement of beliefs: https://apostolicinternational.com/statement-of-beliefs </li>

<li> The sermon: https://apostolicinternational.com/sermons/THE_PURPOSE_OF_UNITY.pdf

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The sermon explores the theme of unity, emphasizing its importance and potential consequences based on biblical narratives. It begins by praising the beauty of unity, linking it to security, peace, progress, and prosperity. Psalm 133 is cited to illustrate the goodness and pleasantness of brethren dwelling together in unity, likening it to the anointing of the Holy Spirit.

The sermon then delves into the story of the Tower of Babel from Genesis 11, highlighting the unity the people had in language and speech. However, it warns that unity without consulting God can lead to disaster, drawing parallels with the cautionary tale of Lot and Jehoshaphat's discernment when facing united prophesies.

The Tower of Babel is presented as an example of unity that ignored God, leading to the loss of language, city, and unity itself. The sermon underscores that unity must align with God's will, quoting Genesis 1:28 about filling the earth and multiplying. It contrasts the disobedient unity of Babel with the united prayer of 120 disciples in Acts 2, leading to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost.

The purpose of unity is then discussed, focusing on Acts 2:1-2 and Joel 2:28 as the fulfillment of the greatest prophecy in the Bible—the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The sermon argues that unity among believers striving for the faith of the gospel is a worthy purpose, referencing Philippians 1:27. The unity of the Apostles and early Christians in Jerusalem is presented as a positive example of unity bringing blessings and growth.

In conclusion, the sermon encourages believers to seek unity for the purpose of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit as in the day of Pentecost and striving together for the gospel, invoking divine favor and growth in the church. The hope is expressed for the Lord to grant a similar unity to believers in the present day.

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