Scripture Reading: Acts 4:32–37

Introduction

A. At Pentecost, God reversed the effects of Babel and brought people from all nations together in Christ (cf. Acts 2; Genesis 11).

B. Sin still has the potential of driving us apart, but God still has the power to bring us together and give us peace and unity.

Discussion

I. God has always desired unity among His children.

A. We see this in the beginning (Genesis 2:26).

B. God made provisions for unity under the Law of Moses (Exodus 23:17; Deuteronomy 12:5).

C. In spite of God’s efforts, division has persisted because of rebellion and sin (1 Kings 11:11; Deuteronomy 28:64).

D. God still has the amazing power to restore unity (Jeremiah 3:17–18; 50:4–5; Micah 2:12; Acts 2:1, 44, 47).

II. We see great unity in the early church.

A. They were sharing their material possessions (Acts 2:46).

B. They shared lots of time together (Acts 2:46; 5:42).

C. They shared their spiritual gifts (Acts 8:14–17; 19:6).

D. They shared in the work (Acts 6:1–4; 14:23).

III. Division is still a great threat to us today.

A. The early church was by no means immune to this problem (Galatians 2:11–14; 1 Corinthians 1:10–13; 11:17–22; 12:12–31).

B. Although division is a danger, it can be prevented when we allow the Spirit to speak (Acts 11:15–18; 15:28–29).

A. The world will stand united against us (Acts 4:25–26; Psalms 2:1–2).

B. Jesus prayed that we all would be one (John 17:21), and we can be when we have the courage and strength to listen to His voice.