Unity in Prayer: Strengthening Faith Amid Persecution

Devotional

Day 1: The Unifying Power of Prayer

Prayer is a profound act that unites believers across the globe, transcending borders and circumstances. As we join millions in prayer for the persecuted church, we are reminded of the strength and resilience of believers worldwide. Prayer not only brings healing and miracles but also fosters a deep sense of unity among Christians. This unity is a testament to the power of faith and the shared commitment to support one another in times of need. By engaging in prayer, we participate in a global movement that seeks to uplift and encourage those facing persecution, demonstrating the boundless reach of God's love. [05:02]

Ephesians 6:18 (ESV): "Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints."

Reflection: Who is someone in your life or community that you can commit to praying for daily, especially those who may be facing challenges or persecution?

Day 2: Communion as a Symbol of Connection

The Lord's Supper is a profound symbol of our connection as believers. It reminds us of Christ's sacrifice and the new covenant, uniting us in a shared faith that has been practiced for centuries. This connection transcends denominational differences, emphasizing our common belief in the gospel of Jesus Christ. As we partake in this sacred tradition, we are called to remember and celebrate our shared faith and the truth of the gospel, which binds us together as one body in Christ. The act of communion serves as a reminder of the unity we have in Christ, encouraging us to live out this unity in our daily interactions with others. [11:39]

1 Corinthians 10:16-17 (ESV): "The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread."

Reflection: How can you actively foster a sense of unity and connection within your church community, especially with those from different backgrounds or denominations?

Day 3: Standing Firm in Truth

Christ's commitment to truth, even in the face of temptation, is a foundation for our faith. In a world where truth is often seen as relative, we are called to stand firm in biblical truth and trust in God's sovereignty. This truth unites us and guides our actions, especially in significant moments like elections. By holding fast to the truth of the gospel, we can navigate the complexities of life with confidence, knowing that God's word is a reliable guide. As we seek to live out this truth, we are reminded of the importance of integrity and authenticity in our walk with Christ. [20:35]

Psalm 25:5 (ESV): "Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long."

Reflection: What is one area in your life where you feel challenged to stand firm in truth, and how can you seek God's guidance to remain steadfast?

Day 4: Worship as a Unifying Force

Worship is a powerful expression of unity among believers. The disciples' hymn-singing with Jesus in the upper room exemplifies the unifying power of worship. As we worship together, we are reminded to trust in the Lord and rejoice in the salvation brought through Christ's sacrifice. Worship transcends individual differences, bringing believers together in a shared experience of adoration and praise. Through worship, we are drawn closer to God and to one another, experiencing the joy and peace that comes from being in His presence. [24:57]

Colossians 3:16 (ESV): "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God."

Reflection: How can you incorporate worship into your daily routine, and in what ways can it help you connect more deeply with God and others?

Day 5: Salvation as the Foundation of Unity

Jesus' prayer for unity among believers highlights the transformative power of salvation. Through Christ's sacrifice, we are united as one body, transcending cultural and denominational barriers. This unity is a testament to the world of the truth of the gospel and the glory of God. As we embrace the gift of salvation, we are called to live in harmony with one another, reflecting the love and grace of Christ in our interactions. This unity is not only a source of strength and encouragement but also a powerful witness to the world of the transformative power of the gospel. [33:05]

Ephesians 4:3-6 (ESV): "Eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."

Reflection: In what ways can you actively promote unity and peace within your family, church, or community, and how can you be a witness of God's love to those around you?

Sermon Summary

In today's gathering, we are called to unity through the profound act of prayer, especially as we observe the 2024 International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by our brothers and sisters in faith across the globe, particularly in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa, where persecution is rampant. Despite the adversity, the church in Africa is growing, demonstrating resilience and faith. We are encouraged to join millions of believers worldwide in prayer, recognizing that prayer is a powerful tool that brings healing, miracles, and unity.

Our focus on unity is further emphasized through the Lord's Supper, a practice that has connected Christians for over two millennia. This sacred tradition, rooted in the words of Jesus during the Last Supper, symbolizes our unity through connection, truth, worship, salvation, and prayer. The Lord's Supper is a figurative act that reminds us of Christ's sacrifice and the new covenant established through His blood. It is a call to remember and celebrate our shared faith and the truth of the gospel.

Unity through truth is highlighted by Christ's unwavering commitment to His words, even in the face of temptation. His truthfulness is a foundation upon which we can build our faith, especially in a world where truth is often seen as relative. As we approach significant events like elections, we are reminded to stand for biblical truth and trust in God's sovereignty over our leaders.

Worship is another avenue through which we find unity. The disciples' hymn-singing with Jesus in the upper room exemplifies the power of worship to bring believers together. This act of worship, rooted in the Psalms, reminds us to trust in the Lord rather than in human leaders.

Finally, unity through salvation and prayer is underscored by Jesus' prayer for His disciples and all future believers. This prayer calls for unity so that the world may believe in Jesus Christ. As we pray for our nation and the persecuted church, we are reminded of the transformative power of prayer to bring about unity and glorify God.

Key Takeaways

1. Unity Through Prayer: Prayer is a powerful unifying force that transcends borders and circumstances. As we join millions in prayer for the persecuted church, we are reminded of the strength and resilience of believers worldwide. Prayer not only brings healing and miracles but also fosters a deep sense of unity among Christians. [05:02]
2. Unity Through Connection: The Lord's Supper is a profound symbol of our connection as believers. It reminds us of Christ's sacrifice and the new covenant, uniting us in a shared faith that has been practiced for centuries. This connection transcends denominational differences, emphasizing our common belief in the gospel of Jesus Christ. [11:39]
3. Unity Through Truth: Christ's commitment to truth, even in the face of temptation, is a foundation for our faith. In a world where truth is often seen as relative, we are called to stand firm in biblical truth and trust in God's sovereignty. This truth unites us and guides our actions, especially in significant moments like elections. [20:35]
4. Unity Through Worship: Worship is a powerful expression of unity among believers. The disciples' hymn-singing with Jesus in the upper room exemplifies the unifying power of worship. As we worship together, we are reminded to trust in the Lord and rejoice in the salvation brought through Christ's sacrifice. [24:57]
5. Unity Through Salvation: Jesus' prayer for unity among believers highlights the transformative power of salvation. Through Christ's sacrifice, we are united as one body, transcending cultural and denominational barriers. This unity is a testament to the world of the truth of the gospel and the glory of God. [33:05]
** [33:05]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[02:34] - Testimonies of Persecution
[05:02] - Call to Prayer
[06:07] - Prayer for Our Nation
[07:55] - Unity in the Lord's Supper
[10:14] - The Last Supper's Significance
[11:39] - Symbolism in Communion
[13:28] - Understanding Transubstantiation
[14:29] - Communion Across Denominations
[18:07] - Encouragement to Seek Truth
[19:21] - Unity Through Truth
[20:35] - Trust in God's Sovereignty
[24:57] - Unity Through Worship
[27:31] - Hymn of Salvation
[33:05] - Unity Through Prayer and Salvation

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What specific event does the sermon highlight as a call for unity among believers? ([07:55])
How does the sermon describe the current state of the church in Sub-Saharan Africa despite persecution? ([03:40])
What symbolic act does Jesus perform during the Last Supper, and what does it represent? ([10:14])
According to the sermon, what role does prayer play in the life of a believer and the church? ([05:02])

Interpretation Questions

How does the act of the Lord's Supper serve as a symbol of unity among Christians, according to the sermon? ([11:39])
In what ways does the sermon suggest that truth can be a unifying force for believers, especially during significant events like elections? ([20:35])
How does the sermon interpret Jesus' refusal to drink wine on the cross as a testament to His commitment to truth? ([20:35])
What does the sermon imply about the relationship between worship and unity among believers? ([24:57])

Application Questions

Reflect on the sermon’s call to pray for the persecuted church. How can you incorporate this into your daily prayer routine? ([05:02])
The sermon emphasizes unity through the Lord's Supper. How can you foster a sense of unity in your own church community, especially with those from different denominations? ([11:39])
Considering the sermon’s discussion on truth, how can you ensure that your actions and decisions align with biblical truth, particularly in the context of upcoming elections? ([20:35])
The sermon highlights the power of worship in unifying believers. How can you engage more deeply in worship to strengthen your connection with others in your faith community? ([24:57])
Reflect on the sermon’s message about unity through salvation. How can you share the message of salvation with someone in your life who may not know Christ? ([31:37])
The sermon calls for unity through prayer. What specific steps can you take to pray more intentionally for unity within your church and community? ([33:05])
How can you apply the sermon’s message of trusting in God’s sovereignty to reduce anxiety about current events or personal challenges? ([22:36])

Sermon Clips

1. "Today as we focus in on our sermon I want to call us to unity. We are finishing our series called Life on the Rock and the title of my sermon today is The Lord's Supper: A Call for Unity. I found that if there's one thing that unifies a body of believers like nothing else, it's prayer. Today is the 2024 International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church. I fear as we as American believers often get too caught up in our own selves that we don't think about praying for other believers around the world who objectively have it much harder than we do as Christians." ([00:00:03] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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2. "Christianity, you see, is the number one persecuted religion in the world today. Christians are being persecuted in some fashion in 145 countries around the world. Scholars say that there are about 195 countries in our world, so that means that Christians face persecution in almost 75 percent of all the countries in the world. The top three countries that persecute Christians are Afghanistan, North Korea, and Somalia. The continent with the most persecution, however, is Africa." ([00:01:39] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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3. "20 people were killed instantly and about 45 were injured. And yet, Open Doors Ministry reports that the church in Africa is among the fastest growing in the world. And across Nigeria, within sites of communities destroyed by violence, many new churches are springing up. A church strong, resilient, faith-filled, and determined. Elia Jati of Open Doors sums it up. In some areas of Nigeria, going to church is like traveling with a one-way ticket. There's no certainty or guarantee of coming back, people are still going to church." ([00:03:52] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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4. "I want to encourage you to go and vote on Tuesday. If you haven't voted already, make sure you go and vote. But what I think we need even more than voting Christians is praying Christians. This is why we're opening our door on Tuesday from seven o'clock in the morning to seven o'clock at night so that you can go vote and then you can come here and you can pray for the election, that you can pray for our country, that you can spend some time here in this very sanctuary, perhaps on your knees here at the altar, praying for our country, humbling yourself, repenting of sins and asking God to heal our land." ([00:06:07] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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5. "I want to clear up something that some of us have wondered about for quite some time. Christ is speaking symbolically. Christ is speaking symbolically. Our Catholic friends teach that the bread and the wine become the actual flesh and blood of Christ. This is called transubstantiation. They back this up with what Christ said in John 6, 53. Now, when you look at this verse and you read it, at first glance, it does seem like Christ is literally talking about his flesh and his blood. But when you go just a little bit further in John chapter 6 to verse 63, you see what Christ is really saying." ([00:12:15] (52 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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6. "I think it's a great idea that we talk to others about our beliefs, especially about what we have in common, like communion, the gospel of Jesus. Speaking to others about what you believe actually helps you to understand what you believe. You believe better. This is what Peter meant when he said in 1 Peter 3:15, but sanctify the Lord God in your hearts and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you with meekness and in fear." ([00:18:06] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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7. "Above all else, remember that God is sovereign. He appoints our leaders, Romans 13, one. Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. As a believer understanding Romans 13, one, you don't need to worry about what happens on Tuesday. Amen? Our anxiety can be pushed away because God is in control. He appoints our leaders. We don't have to worry about it. Do your part and vote, and then leave the rest up to the Lord." ([00:22:14] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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8. "We need to be praying for revival in this country. We need to be praying that the church would rise up and spread the gospel like none other time in history, that we would go forth telling others about Jesus Christ so that our country can come back to its Christian principles. Pray for healing. Pray for unity and truthfulness. So Christ teaches unity through connection, unity through truth, and next he teaches unity through worship." ([00:24:23] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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9. "We have unity through connection. We have unity through truth. We have unity through worship. And fourthly, we have unity through salvation. Verse 31, then Jesus said to them, all of you will be made to stumble because of me this night, for it is written, I will strike the shepherd and the sheep of the flock will be scattered. You see, it didn't take long for the disciples to scatter. His sheep scattered pretty quickly." ([00:28:43] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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10. "Unity brings belief in Jesus. This is the point that Jesus was making here in verse 21. When Christians are unified in Christ, a disbelieving world starts to believe. We need unity so the world will believe in Jesus Christ. Furthermore, unity brings glory to God. Following verse 21, we see verse 22, that Jesus notes that we share in the glory. Christ. Our lives now reflect God's glory, thereby further glorifying him. So unity brings salvation to the world and unity brings glory to God." ([00:33:17] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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