This Breaks God's Heart

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message is a call to examine our hearts and actions as followers of Christ, recognizing that division within the church is not only a human issue, but also a spiritual one. The Father's heart breaks when He sees His children divided, just as it should break ours. We are called to be one body, united in our faith and love for Him.

Key Scripture References

• Ephesians 4:3-6 - "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of us all, who is above all and through all and in all." This passage reminds us that unity within the church is a fundamental aspect of our faith. When we see division, it's not just a human issue, but a spiritual one that grieves the heart of God.
• 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 - "For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and we were all made to drink into one Spirit." This passage illustrates that just as our physical bodies have many parts working together, the church is also a unified body, connected by the Holy Spirit.
• John 17:20-23 - "My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 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. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one." In this passage, Jesus prays for unity among His followers, emphasizing that it's essential for the world to see our love and unity.
• Matthew 18:19-20 - "Again, truly I tell you, if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, I am there among them." This passage reminds us that when we come together in Jesus' name, He is present with us, and His presence brings unity and power.
• Psalm 133:1 - "How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!" This psalm celebrates the joy and beauty of unity among God's people. When we prioritize unity, we bring glory to God and experience His presence and blessing.
• Romans 15:5-7 - "May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude toward each other in accord with Christ Jesus, so that together you may with one voice glorify the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Welcome one another, then, as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God." This passage reminds us to welcome and accept one another, just as Christ welcomes and accepts us.

Key Takeaways

• The church in the US is divided, and this division should break our hearts because it grieves the heart of God. We are called to be one body, united in our faith and love for Him.
• When we see division within the church, it's essential to examine our own hearts and actions, recognizing that we may be contributing to the problem. We must seek unity and work towards healing any divisions.
• The Father's heart is broken by division because He sees His children divided. Just as we would be grieved if one of our family members was hurt or struggling, God is grieved when His people are divided.
• We can prioritize unity by praying for it, seeking to understand and empathize with others, and working towards healing any divisions within the church.

This Week's Challenge

This week, we challenge you to pray for unity in your local church or community. Ask God to reveal any areas where division may be present and seek His guidance on how to address these issues. Additionally, make an effort to connect with others within the church who may not share the same views as you, and strive to understand their perspectives.

Reflection Questions

• What are some ways in which I contribute to division or unity within my local church or community? How can I seek to prioritize unity this week?
• How can I welcome and accept others who may not share the same views as me, just as Christ welcomes and accepts me?
• What are some practical steps I can take this week to work towards healing any divisions within my church or community?