Counsel #3 — Embracing Unity

Picture: Counsel #3 — Embracing UnityCSI 22.1

Through the lens of Jesus Christ's sacrificial death on the cross for the salvation of all humanity, we grasp the true intent of Paul's messages on equality and unity.^{[52]Romans 5:19} He emphasizes that the blood of one man, Jesus, paid the price for the redemption of all. This truth highlights the equal worth and value of every individual; no one is considered less deserving. Racism is not only ugly, but also antithetical to what Jesus' life stood for. God created us to be communal — to need each other, and it’s imperative to aim for His ideal.^{[53]https://adventistreview.org/news/what-does-god-say-about-unity/}CSI 22.2

“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:28 ESVCSI 22.3

“No distinction on account of nationality, race, or caste, is recognized by God. He is the Maker of all mankind. All men are of one family by creation, and all are one through redemption. Christ came to demolish every wall of partition, to throw open every compartment of the temple, that every soul may have free access to God.” Ellen White in Christ's Object Lessons, p. 386CSI 22.4

Reflect: If you were to honestly examine your biases for a day, what underlying prejudices or assumptions would you uncover? How can embracing the inclusive message of the gospel and recognizing our shared identity in Christ help dismantle these biases?CSI 22.5