Sermon: THE POWER OF UNITY
Series: THE POWER OF RELATIONSHIPS
Pastor Steve Trimble ~ October 18, 2009

Text: Acts 10: 44-48, 11:1-18

“Christians are like porcupines in a snowstorm. We need each other to keep warm but we prick each other if we get too close.”

I. UNITY IS NOT THE ABSENCE OF CONFLICT

A. Conflict will come… it is inevitable.

The cycle of all relationships: Courtship -- Commitment -- Honeymoon -- Conflict -- Resolution -- Growth -- Multiplication.


B. The Purpose of Conflict.


C. The Cycle of Conflict.

Community – Conflict – Choices – Change – Community


II. UNITY IS PROMOTING GOD'S AGENDA

A. What is my responsibility and role in conflict?

1. Be quick to listen and slow to speak.
James 1:19-20; 3:6, 8


2. Evaluate and search for truth before you react. (17) "…who was I to think that I could oppose God."


3. Keep a right spirit.


4. Keep your heart clean from offence. (18) "When they heard this, they had no further objections and praised God."


5. Never listen to "hear say"… never make up your mind until you know the facts.

Remember there are always two sides to every story and then there is the truth.


6. Follow Biblical guidelines - Matt 18:15-18





Conclusion: Stay united for God's purpose--The battle you are facing is a distraction; the real issue is to maintain oneness with Christ.