We Say We Are One in Christ: Then Why Are We So Separated During the Week?

Dear Friends,

As a Clinical Christian Counselor, I often hear the heartfelt longing for genuine unity among believers. We proclaim that we are one in Christ, yet the reality of our daily lives often tells a different story. Our unity seems to dissipate as we move from Sunday services to the busyness of our weekly routines. Why do we struggle to maintain this oneness in Christ throughout the week, and how can we bridge the gap between our professed beliefs and daily interactions? Let’s explore this issue together, drawing on biblical wisdom and practical steps to foster unity daily.

The Biblical Foundation of Unity

The Bible calls us to be united as one body in Christ. Ephesians 4:4-6 says, "There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." This passage highlights the profound spiritual unity we share as believers.

Jesus Himself prayed for our unity in John 17:21, "That all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me." Our unity is meant to be a testimony to the world of God's love and the truth of the Gospel.

Challenges to Unity During the Week

1. Busyness and Distractions: Our modern lives are filled with demands and distractions that can pull us away from meaningful connections with fellow believers. Work, family responsibilities, and social commitments often take precedence, leaving little time for nurturing relationships within the body of Christ.

2. Differences and Divisions: Differences in theology, politics, cultural backgrounds, and personal preferences can create divisions among believers. These differences, if not handled with grace and understanding, can lead to separation rather than unity.

3. Individualism: Our culture often promotes individualism and self-reliance, which can hinder the communal aspect of our faith. We may prioritize our personal goals and desires over the needs of the community, leading to isolation and fragmentation.

4. Lack of Intentionality: Unity requires intentional effort and commitment. Without purposeful actions to foster connections and build relationships, our unity remains superficial and confined to Sunday gatherings.

Steps to Foster Unity Throughout the Week

1. Prioritize Community: Make time for fellowship and connection with other believers during the week. This could include small group meetings, prayer gatherings, or simply spending time with fellow Christians. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us, "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."

2. Embrace Diversity: Celebrate the diversity within the body of Christ. Recognize that our differences can enrich our community and provide opportunities for growth and learning. Galatians 3:28 reminds us, "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."

3. Practice Forgiveness and Grace: Extend forgiveness and grace to one another. Differences and conflicts are inevitable, but how we handle them can either strengthen or weaken our unity. Colossians 3:13 advises, "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."

4. Serve One Another: Acts of service can build strong bonds and demonstrate our love for one another. Look for ways to support and serve your fellow believers, whether through practical help, encouragement, or prayer. 1 Peter 4:10 says, "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms."

5. Cultivate a Spirit of Unity: Pray for unity and seek to cultivate a spirit of harmony within your community. Ephesians 4:3 urges us, "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Be intentional about fostering an environment where unity can thrive.

Encouragement for Your Journey

Dear friends, maintaining our unity in Christ throughout the week requires intentionality, effort, and a heart aligned with God's desires. Let us strive to be a community that reflects the love and unity of Christ, not just on Sundays but every day of the week.

Remember the words of Psalm 133:1, "How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!" May our lives testify to the world of the transformative power of God's love and our unity in Him.

With heartfelt encouragement,

Dr. Samuel Said

Clinical Christian Counselor