Free Will Baptists have a rich heritage. Our denomination has always been defined by our commitment to biblical truth, evangelism, and service. As believers, we are called to live out our faith in obedience to God, but we are also called to work together as a body of believers for the greater purpose of expanding His Kingdom.
Unity among believers is a central theme in Scripture. From the early church to today, God has called His people to work together, support one another, and partner in His mission. As Christians, we are not meant to live in isolation but to be part of a larger body that works in harmony for the glory of God.
Biblical Foundation for Unity
The Bible emphasizes the importance of unity in both the Old and New Testaments. Psalm 133:1 declares, “Behold, how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.” The Apostle Paul prayed in Romans 15:5-6, “Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
His prayer teaches us unity glorifies God. Jesus also prayed for His followers to be one, saying, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me” (John 17:20-21).
Here, Christ’s prayer demonstrates unity among His followers is essential for their witness. When we unite, it is good, it glorifies God, and it strengthens our impact on those around us.
Why Work Together?
We need each other. The Body of Christ is unique. Though we have many members in the Body of Christ, not everyone has the same gifts or functions. As different parts of the human body work together, we should work together, too. The church in Acts is a perfect example of unity in action. Acts 2:44-45 says, “And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.” Their willingness to share and support one another enabled the gospel to spread rapidly.
The world will see God’s love. Unity among believers showcases God’s power and love to the world. Jesus said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35). In all the Bible, we have only one description of how the world knows we are Christians. If you love one another, they will know. When we set aside personal differences for the sake of God’s mission, we bring glory to Him and hope to the world.
We can do infinitely more together. Working together enables us to accomplish more than we ever could alone. The early church in Acts 4 came together with one heart and soul. They shared everything they had. That’s crazy love! They took their possessions, sold them, and gave the money to the church, so needs could be met. In Philippians 1, Paul praised the Philippians for their partnership in the gospel. When believers unite in purpose and mission, they become a powerful force for God’s Kingdom.
How We Can Work Together
Working together requires humility, recognizing we are part of one body with a shared mission to glorify God. The relationship between our churches and the denomination should be reciprocal. Our denomination, through its national agencies, provides prayer support, educational opportunities, teaching resources, investment opportunities, coaching, and a multitude of other resources for pastors and churches. Pastors and churches support national agencies through financial giving, volunteer efforts, and active participation. Supporting our denomination and utilizing the resources provided ensures our churches and ministries are equipped for effective service, the good work can continue, and we extend Kingdom work both locally and globally. When we humbly serve, give, and pray together, we demonstrate the love of Christ and magnify our collective impact for His Kingdom.
As Free Will Baptists, we are stronger together. God calls us to unity for His glory and for the advancement of His Kingdom. By working together, partnering in ministry, and supporting one another, we reflect His love and make a greater impact in the world.
As we strive to live out the biblical call to unity, may we remember we are one body, serving one Lord, with one ultimate purpose — to bring glory to His name.
About the Writer: Chris Compton is the CFO for Richland Ave Financial. He graduated in 2007 with an M.A. in Bible Exposition from Columbia International University. A 1998 graduate of East Tennessee State University, he has over two decades of administrative and financial experience in various fields, along with seven years in pastoral ministry.
