From the very beginning, we can see how God’s divine design for humanity was rooted in unity. We see it in the creation story. Where Adam and Eve were created to live in harmony with each other and with God. God’s desire for unity continues throughout the Bible. In John 17:21 we see Jesus praying specifically for unity saying, “that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me, and I am in you.” This prayer reveals the depth of Jesus’ heart for us; to not just experience but also reflect the perfect unity we see within the Trinity.
As a church spanning across 36 countries, we believe we have a unique and sacred opportunity to reflect God’s heart for unity in a way that transcends geographical, cultural, and language barriers. In a world that often seems more divided than united, the visible display of unity and belonging within our global Church could not be more important. On Sunday mornings and throughout the week, our differences are a testament to the richness of God’s creation, and our unity a testament to the transformative power of God’s love.
Unity is not just about agreement or ‘kumbaya’, but about something so much deeper. It is about shared purpose and love. It is about coming together despite our differences and working towards a common goal. The goal of glorifying God and advancing His Kingdom here on earth. The Bible tells us that our unity shows the world that we belong to God.
Belonging goes hand in hand with unity. When we all feel like we belong, we feel at home and like we matter. In Romans 12:5, Paul writes, “so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” Belonging is a fundamental human need. We believe it is both a beautiful gift and a responsibility.
When we create welcoming and belonging environments, we show each person that regardless of their background, they have a place in our church. It means that we are all seen, heard, and valued. It is about creating environments where everyone feels at home, where cultural differences are celebrated, and where the love of Christ is evident in every interaction. This is stunning to experience and be a part of creating within our church.
With our church representing so many tongues, tribes, and nations; we are a mosaic of cultures, languages, and traditions. This diversity is our strength, but it also requires intentionality to maintain unity and foster belonging. Here are four ways we can intentionally step into it:
1. Celebrate Our Differences
God’s heart for unity does not diminish our differences but instead highlights and celebrates them. As one big global spiritual family, it is important to try to understand and appreciate the various cultures represented in our church. This could mean learning a new language, participating in cultural events different from your own, trying new food, or simply taking the time to listen to each other’s stories.
2. Prioritise Relationships
Building relationships across our differences is so important. This is simpler than what we sometimes make it. More than anything it is about time spent with each other. Some ideas are inviting someone you do not know over for a meal, meeting up for coffee, and participating in events and traditions that are important to those part of our church community.
3. Commit to Mutual Respect
The unity that Jesus prayed is an invitation for us to respect each other’s differences. This means prioritizing Kingdom culture, by valuing the tapestry of cultures within our church, by being mindful of cultural sensitivities, by avoiding assumptions, and by approaching each other with humility and a willingness to learn. When we do this, we reflect the honor that God has for each one of us.
4. Serve Together
There are few greater expressions of unity than serving together for the sake of the gospel. Whether through local or international missions, when we serve side by side, we embody the unity that Jesus prayed for. Serving together literally breaks down barriers and authentically builds belonging and the unity that Jesus prayed for.
Let us continue to keep God’s heart for unity and belonging at the forefront of all we do. Where everyone feels like they belong. Where our differences are celebrated. Where our unity is evident in our love for one another. Where our unity shines so bright that it becomes a beacon. A beacon of unity that draws others to God.
Maria Hansen-Quine
Hillsong Global Unity
Oct 10 2024