Like marriage, unity in God’s church has a heavenly aspect—God-given spiritual oneness, and an earthly aspect—human effort to reflect that oneness. As in marriage, the latter cannot be taken for granted. Be “eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit.” That means overcoming “the flesh”—our selfish and sinful tendencies as humans. Let the Spirit’s immense power change the focus from self to service. As we empty ourselves and submit to the Holy Spirit, He develops His own loving nature in us. Biblical love places God first by keeping His commandments. It also treats others as it would like to be treated. Even then, mature Christians may disagree. Like Paul and Barnabas, they may need to find different workspaces. But their spiritual oneness remains intact, and they continue to work toward full reconciliation.
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