Romans 12:16; 15:5-6

Introduction:

1. This “one another” passage falls in the category of unity in the body.

2. While many passages address doctrinal agreement (which is imperative for unity), this passage addresses attitudinal unity.

3. Unity in the body demands we are pulling in the same direction.

Discussion:

I. United Hearts and Minds

A. God demands unity (Psalms 133:1-3; Jeremiah 32:36-41; Ezekiel 11:19; John 17:20-23; 1 Corinthians 1:10; 2 Corinthians 13:11; Philippians 1:27; 2:2; 4:2; 1 Peter 3:8).

B. Romans 12:16 specifically promotes harmony of thought with equal consideration for brethren of every station.

II. Not Haughtiness but Humility

A. God strongly condemns haughtiness (Proverbs 3:7; 6:16-17; 16:18; 26:12; Isaiah 5:21; Romans 12:3; 16; 1 Timothy 3:6).

B. James also fought the sin of elitism (James 2:1-7).

C. Christianity is the place of true equality (Galatians 3:26-29).

III. For God’s Glory, Not Our Own

A. Romans 15:5-7 drives home the goal of our united minds.

1. According to Christ Jesus= after the fashion of (Mounce)

2. With our united minds our voices work in harness to glorify God (cf. John 17:20-23).

B. This attitude prompts us to receive one another as Christ did with all the accompanying care that entails.

Conclusion:

1. What the world needs most is to see the Lord’s people united.

2. To have this harmony, we must not be high-minded but rather be content with the simplicity in Christ (2 Corinthians 11:3).

3. If we fulfill this “one another,” we will glorify God’s worthy name.