Podcast Episode #468
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Church unity is an issue in many churches. Fighting, gossip, and bullying can really play havoc on unity. Today, we discuss why and how churches can become more unified.
Some highlights from today’s episode include:
- Jesus wanted churches to be unified (John 17), but not many churches want unity.
- The more outward-focused a church is, the less self-centered they will be.
- The most important factor in church unity is having an outward focus.
- One of the primary roles of deacons is to keep unity in the church.
The reasons for church unity which we discuss are:
- They have a community outward focus.
- They come through a crisis.
- They have leadership that keeps them on track.
- They have a low tolerance for gossiping and bullying.
- They have a clear and actionable vision statement.
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Feedback
If you have a question you would like answered on the show, fill out the form on the podcast page here at ThomRainer.com. If we use your question, you’ll receive a free copy of Becoming a Welcoming Church.
I think doctrinal beliefs are important for church unity. I have seen people with various differences in beliefs come together in a church that has a pastor who is popular and a good speaker, but as soon as the pastor leaves and goes to another church disunity sets in and people go their own way. A church with certain programs and ministries can attract people with differing beliefs, but as soon as the program or ministry ends or fizzles disunity sets in and people go their separate ways. Churches where people hold to the same or very similar doctrinal beliefs tend to stick together better through trying or difficult times. That’s why it is important for the pastor to be a good preacher and teacher.