One In Christ

• Remember a time when you thought, “I wonder why so-and-so did that or said that?”  What was it that really perplexed you?
  
• When have you read one of the stories about Jesus and wondered about his words or actions?
  
• John 17 is a glimpse into the heart and concerns of Jesus.  What is the setting for this prayer?  What else went on that night?
  
• Who was he praying for? Who wasn’t he praying for? Does this surprise you? Why was his prayer so narrowly focused?
  
• In the prayer, what requests did he make of his Father? (see vv15-17, and 22-23)
  
• Have you ever been in a business, organization or church where there was a distinct lack of unity?  What was it like?  What were the consequences?
  
• Read Ephesians 4.4-6.  Paul states that unity in the church is a FACT.  Where does our unity come from?  How have you experienced this unity with other Christians?
  
• Unity doesn’t require UNIFORMITY on all matters.  What do you think are the “essentials” that we must all adhere to?  What are some issues or beliefs that Christians have historically disagreed about?  When is disagreement OK and when is it harmful to the church?
  
• Read verse 23.  Why did Jesus say unity is so important?
  
• If unity is also a GOAL that we work towards, how can we do that?  What characteristics or attitudes in the church will help us maintain and build unity?
  
• What challenges to our unity at First Covenant might we experience in the days ahead?  How will we overcome them?