Why Is Everyone So Divided?
5 Day Devotional
This five-day devotional will be taking a deeper dive into the sermon from this weekend. We will explore how unity in the kingdom of God is a beautiful tapestry woven from diverse threads united in Christ. Over the next few days, we'll delve into this theme, challenging ourselves to embrace diversity and strengthen our shared allegiance to King Jesus.
Day 1
Scripture: Acts 11:19-21
In the early church, believers scattered due to persecution found themselves at crossroads of identity and mission. The small group in Antioch embraced diversity by stepping outside their familiar, reaching the Greeks. Unity was not about cultural sameness but about allegiance to Jesus, who moves beyond boundaries. We too are called to see the beauty in our differences and gather under the unifying banner of Christ’s love.
The story in Antioch reminds us that God often leads us to uncomfortable places to reveal His purpose. The hand of the Lord is with those willing to break barriers and see others as God does. Unity thrives not in uniformity but in a shared mission that transcends personal or cultural boundaries. Let us also lean into these opportunities to unite for a greater purpose and divine calling.
Reflect on a time you felt comfortable in your own "tribe" and what it took to step out.
How can you actively foster unity in your church or community despite differences?
In what ways can you see God’s hand in your interactions with diverse groups of people?
Pray for God to reveal any biases that prevent true unity.
Ask for the courage to be an agent of unity in diverse settings.
Day 2
Scripture: Acts 11:22-26
When news of the movement in Antioch reached Jerusalem, Barnabas was sent to witness God’s grace at work. Far from being suspicious, Barnabas was joyful and encouraging, fostering a climate where differences were celebrated, and people were added to the faith. His leadership multiplied blessings and growth within the fledgling church, showing us the power of spirit-filled leadership.
We are encouraged to perceive God's grace in unexpected places and people and to fuel it rather than confine it. By fostering an open spirit and rejoicing in diversity, we become more inclusive. As Barnabas backed Saul’s gifts, let us be supporters of others’ growth, ensuring that our unity as believers is rooted in our allegiance to Jesus, not cultural homogeneity.
Consider how you respond when you see God’s work in unfamiliar areas or people.
How can you become more like Barnabas in your leadership and encouragement?
Identify an individual whose gifts you can help amplify for the kingdom's sake.
Pray for eyes to see God’s grace in surprising people and places.
Seek guidance to be a source of encouragement and unity in your community.
Day 3
Scripture: Acts 11:27-30
In Antioch, the believers showed their unity and faith by acting on the prophecy of famine through generous giving. This wasn’t mere charity; it was a testament to their collective faith in action. Their generosity serves as a profound expression of knowing that faith in King Jesus binds believers beyond cultural and geographical differences. True unity is demonstrated in love that results in tangible acts of mercy and support.
Their example challenges us to consider how we practice our faith not just personally but collectively in ways that transform our communities. When believers unite to help others, it manifests God’s kingdom on Earth—a counter-cultural response to human needs characterized by selflessness and love. Let our generosity echo this ancient church’s commitment to nurturing the family of God.
Reflect on how your faith prompts you to respond to the needs of others.
What steps can you take to contribute to your community's wellbeing?
How can you encourage a culture of generosity within your spheres of influence?
Pray for a spirit of generosity to permeate your church and community.
Invite God to show you specific ways to help support others in need.
Day 4
Scripture: Acts 11:19-30
Antioch marks the place where followers of Jesus were first called Christians, defined not by cultural ties but by their allegiance to Christ. This revolution of identity calls us to ask what it means to be recognized by our Christ-like love and unity. In a world teeming with division, embodying the title of “Christian” means living a life visibly aligned with Christ’s teachings and mission.
This call challenges us to examine our identities. Is our primary identity centered on Christ, visible in our love, generosity, and grace? As we live out our faith, our goal is to bridge divides and be a force of healing in our communities. Our identity should point others to Jesus, making our faith evident to all who encounter us.
Consider how your Christian identity shapes your daily actions.
In what ways can you ensure that Jesus is more visible in your life?
Identify cultural or personal barriers that prevent you from fully living out your faith.
Pray for the courage to live as a true Christian, defined by loyalty to Jesus.
Ask God to reveal areas where you need a deeper commitment to His teachings.
Day 5
Scripture: Acts 11:26
The Antioch church exemplified unity through shared allegiance to King Jesus, breaking away from cultural definitions. This dynamic community redefines what it means to belong to Christ. As modern believers, we are invited to welcome diversity and foster unity, creating spaces where differences are celebrated under the unifying lordship of Jesus. Our challenge is to live counter-culturally, rejecting divisions and showing the world the embodiment of God’s kingdom.
As we reflect on the Antioch movement, let us renew our commitment to unity. Our collective mission is to be the light in our communities, a living testimony of God’s inclusive love. In doing this, we transform not just ourselves but also the world, bringing hope and change by embracing all as God’s children, united by grace and mission.
Reflect on how unity can be manifested in your life and community.
What cultural or personal changes can you make to embrace a more united outlook?
How does your allegiance to Jesus influence your view of diversity and unity?
Pray for wisdom to navigate and embrace diversity within your community.
Ask for strength to live out your allegiance to King Jesus daily.
Rewatch the Sermon
