Today, there is much talk about diversity and unity in the Church. Some believers say we should prioritize our unity in Christ and downplay diversity. In contrast, others believe we should celebrate both — the distinct mix of varying spiritual gifts and backgrounds, along with the unity found in Jesus Christ.
The Apostle Paul paints a vivid picture of this dynamic in two key scriptures. In 1 Corinthians 12:12-13, he says, “Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit as to form one body — whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free — and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.
He follows up with Romans 12:5-6 and says, “So in Christ, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.”
Paul looks at this by giving an analogy of our human body, illustrating how we, as the body of Christ, are intricately connected yet uniquely gifted. Just as our physical bodies have many parts that serve different functions in order to work effectively together, so are we, as members of Christ’s body, diverse yet united by the Holy Spirit.
That’s why we should not consider diversity something to be downplayed but a deliberate design by God to be celebrated within the unity of the body of Christ. He crafted each of us with distinct gifts, backgrounds, and experiences, all meant to complement one another as the bride of Christ. Whether serving, teaching, or showing love and empathy to others, our diverse gifts come together to reflect the breathtaking beauty of God’s heavenly Kingdom. (Revelation 7:9)
Celebrating diversity and unity strengthens and empowers the body of Christ. As Difference Makers, when we unite our diverse spiritual gifts, we become a powerful force that God can use to amplify the Gospel and bring hope and healing to our communities and the world.
So, let’s learn to embrace the diversity found in each other and our spiritual gifts with open arms. When we our united as believers, our ability to be Difference Makers is unlimited and powerful under the banner of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Interested in learning more? Be sure to check out FMBC’s latest sermon, “Unifying our Gifts, Be More For God. Click here or see below.