Church is a Team Sport

The church is not merely a collection of individuals but a cohesive body that thrives on cooperation and mutual support. Just as a sports team or a choir requires each member to play their part harmoniously, the church needs every believer to contribute their unique gifts and talents for the common good. Division, whether caused by foolish disputes, racism, politics, or pride, is demonic and counterproductive to the mission of the church. Paul’s instruction to reject a divisive person after the first and second admonition underscores the seriousness of maintaining unity.

We explored the metaphor of the church as a team, an army, and a temple. Each metaphor highlights the necessity of working together under a common purpose and authority. Just as a team cannot win if its members are divided, and an army cannot succeed if its soldiers do not follow orders, the church cannot fulfill its mission if it is fractured by internal strife. The unity within the Holy Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—serves as the ultimate model for the church, providing a strong theological basis for our call to unity. This divine unity should be reflected in our relationships with one another, fostering an environment where the Spirit of God can dwell and work powerfully.

The Apostle Paul’s transformation from Saul, a persecutor of Christians, to a beloved church member exemplifies the power of reconciliation and unity. His story reminds us that our vertical relationship with God must translate into horizontal relationships with others. The church is called to be a living example of heaven on earth, where diversity is celebrated and unity is paramount.

In closing, we were challenged to embrace a spirit of humility and unity, to avoid foolish disputes, and most importantly, to actively seek ways to contribute to the body of Christ. By doing so, we can become a powerful, harmonious force that reflects the glory of God and advances His kingdom on earth.

Key Takeaways

1. **Unity in Diversity**: The church, like a choir, thrives on the harmonious blending of diverse gifts and talents. Each member's unique abilities contribute to a powerful collective impact that surpasses individual efforts. This unity in diversity reflects the nature of God's creation and His design for the church. [01:08:01]

2. **Rejecting Division**: Paul’s instruction to reject a divisive person after the first and second admonition highlights the seriousness of maintaining unity. Division is demonic and counterproductive to the church's mission. It is better to have fewer people united in purpose than a large, divided congregation. [01:03:19]

3. **The Church as a Team and Army**: The metaphors of the church as a team and an army emphasize the importance of working together under a common purpose and authority. Just as a team cannot win if its members are divided, and an army cannot succeed if its soldiers do not follow orders, the church cannot fulfill its mission if it is fractured by internal strife. [01:31:43]

4. **The Power of Reconciliation**: The transformation of Saul to Paul exemplifies the power of reconciliation and unity. Our vertical relationship with God must translate into horizontal relationships with others. The church is called to be a living example of heaven on earth, where diversity is celebrated, and unity is paramount. [01:27:20]

5. **Living Stones in God’s Temple**: The church is described as a temple built with living stones, each uniquely shaped and placed by God. This imagery underscores the importance of each member's role and the masterful way God fits us together to create a dwelling place for His Spirit. Our unity allows God's presence to manifest powerfully among us. [01:34:12]