Unity: One Purpose

Is unity the same as being united? Or is it about having a shared goal, even if we use different methods to reach the same outcome?
Psalm 133:1 reminds us:
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity.”
And in John 17:23, Jesus prays:
“I in them and you in me, so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.”
These verses highlight that unity isn’t just about uniformity, it’s about being connected to a common person, purpose, and spirit. It’s Christ at the centre that brings people together to achieve great things.
Take, for example, the fall of the Berlin Wall on November 9, 1989. That powerful moment was more than political, it was deeply human. It symbolized a yearning for reunion, for oneness. Families that had been separated for decades could finally come together. Unity led to restoration.
Another powerful image of unity is found in the twelve disciples. Though they came from different walks of life; fishermen, tax collectors, zealots, they were united by Christ. Through that unity, they turned the world upside down (see the book of Acts).
Ephesians 4:11–13 (AMP) expands this thought:
“And [His gifts to the church were varied] apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers to fully equip and perfect the saints to build up the body of Christ until we all reach oneness in the faith, manifesting His spiritual completeness and exercising our spiritual gifts in unity.”
Unity is not about being the same, it’s about walking together under the same Lord, with different gifts but one mission.
So today, I encourage you:
Walk in the spirit of unity. Let Christ be your centre and guide.
And echo the words of 1 Peter 3:8 (AMP):
“Finally, all of you be like-minded [united in spirit], sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit.”
May we pursue unity, not uniformity by keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, who brings us together in perfect love.

JSW