Main Thought
God loves diversity! We see this in His creation, and especially with people. In Heaven, God’s desire is for every nation, every people, and every language to be represented! We must accomplish the mission of diversity on earth in order for that to happen. But greater diversity leads to greater challenges to relate to one another. The Bible has much to say about how we, as followers of Christ, glorify God through relational unity. We need to love, forgive, and welcome others from inside and outside our spiritual family - because that’s how God treated us in Christ.
Main Passage
8 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. 9 Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.
- 1 Peter 3:8-98 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace...
- 1 Peter 4:8-1034 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
- John 13:34-35
Discussion Questions
Do you find yourself interacting with a diverse group of people at work, or in your circle of friends? Is this easy or challenging? How might you be able to present Jesus to those who seem different from you?
We’re commanded to bless people, even if they treat us poorly. Why is it hard to practice this command? How can we grow in our ability to bless those who mistreat us?
Would people know that you’re a Christian by observing the way you love and treat others? Why or why not? How can you be more like Jesus in the way you love others?