Friday
Reading: Acts 1:4-14; John 17:20-23
SOAP: John 17:22-23
The glory you gave to me I have given to them, that they may be one just as we are one—I in them and you in me—that they may be completely one, so that the world will know that you sent me, and you have loved them just as you have loved me.
The resurrection of Jesus changed everything. It changed us socially, allowing us to be unified with other believers in Christ. However, the unity we have with other believers serves a greater purpose than simply giving us community or encouragement or provision.
The unity of believers serves as a testimony to the world of the triune nature of God and of the unity of God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. The unity of believers is also a testimony of God’s love for the world. Through the body of Christ, the world sees the nature and character of God, of His love for Jesus and His love for His people, and the glory of God the Father.
The same glory bestowed on Jesus has been given to all believers in the church. As we live in unity we display the glory of God, the nature of the Trinity, and the love God has for the world.
Father God, I praise You for the way You have revealed Yourself to the world through Jesus. Thank You for showing us Your nature and Your love through Jesus. Help me to live in unity with other believers so that we may display Your love to the world.