One Church, One Hope

Bible Reading: Romans 15:1–13

 “May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another… that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” — Romans 15:5–6

The Church is God’s family, brought together not by shared culture, personality, or background but by the grace of Jesus Christ. Paul calls believers to bear with one another, following the example of Christ, who “did not please Himself” but gave His life for us (Romans 15:3). He also reminds us that “whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction” (Romans 15:4). As Eugene Peterson observed, our greatest challenge is not believing that Scripture is true, but believing that it is written for us. God’s Word still speaks today, giving endurance, encouragement, and hope to His people. As we gather around Scripture with expectant hearts, He shapes us into one body that worships Him with one mind and one voice.

Paul then urges, “Welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God” (Romans 15:7). C. S. Lewis reminds us that the most important question is not what we think about God, but what God thinks about us. Through Christ, we are not merely tolerated but graciously welcomed into the Father’s love. Secure in His acceptance, we no longer need to seek the approval of the world. Instead, we are free to extend Christ’s welcome to others, crossing barriers of race, culture, and background. In this way, the Church becomes a visible sign of God’s reconciling grace.

Paul concludes with a beautiful blessing: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing… so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13). Filled with God’s Word, assured of His love, and empowered by His Spirit, the Church becomes a community marked by unity, joy, and hope. When we bear one another’s burdens, welcome one another as Christ has welcomed us, and glorify God with one heart and one voice, the world catches a glimpse of God’s plan for His Church and the hope found in Jesus Christ.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, 

Help us to receive Your Word with expectant hearts, love one another as Christ has loved us, and abound in the hope that comes through Your Holy Spirit. May our lives and our Church bring glory to Your name. 

Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.