Unity

Unity is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting the harmonious relationship that God desires among His people. The concept of unity is rooted in the nature of God Himself, as seen in the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—existing in perfect unity. This divine model serves as the foundation for the unity expected among believers.

In the New Testament, the call for unity is emphasized in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Jesus prayed for the unity of His followers in John 17:21, saying, "that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me." This prayer highlights the importance of unity as a testimony to the world of God's love and truth.

The Apostle Paul frequently addressed the theme of unity in his epistles. In Ephesians 4:3-6, he exhorts believers to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." Here, Paul underscores the theological basis for unity, rooted in the oneness of God and the shared faith of believers.

Unity is also a practical matter, as seen in the early church's communal life. Acts 2:44-47 describes the believers as being "together and having everything in common," sharing their possessions and meeting together with glad and sincere hearts. This unity was not merely organizational but relational, characterized by love, mutual support, and a shared mission.

Inclusion

Inclusion in the biblical context refers to the welcoming and acceptance of all individuals into the community of believers, regardless of their background, ethnicity, or social status. This principle is grounded in the understanding that all people are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and that the gospel is for everyone.

The ministry of Jesus exemplified inclusion. He reached out to marginalized individuals, such as tax collectors, sinners, and Samaritans, breaking social and cultural barriers. In Matthew 9:10-13, Jesus dined with tax collectors and sinners, demonstrating that His mission was to call all people to repentance and faith.

The early church continued this inclusive mission. The Apostle Peter, after a vision from God, declared in Acts 10:34-35, "I now truly understand that God does not show favoritism, but welcomes those from every nation who fear Him and do what is right." This marked a significant shift in the early church's understanding, opening the door for Gentiles to be included in the faith community.

Paul further elaborates on the inclusive nature of the gospel in Galatians 3:28, stating, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." This declaration emphasizes that in Christ, traditional divisions are transcended, and all believers are equal members of the body of Christ.

Inclusion is not merely a passive acceptance but an active embrace of diversity within the unity of the church. It involves recognizing and valuing the unique contributions of each individual, as described in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, where Paul compares the church to a body with many parts, each essential for its proper functioning.

In summary, unity and inclusion are intertwined themes in the Bible, reflecting God's desire for a diverse yet harmonious community of believers who reflect His love and truth to the world.