Sharon Reformed Presbyterian Church · Sermon study sheet

Biblical Christian Unity

Bryan Schneider · May 27, 2023

Mark 9:38-41

sharonrpc.org/sermons/biblical-christian-unity

Summary

John tries to stop a man ministering in Jesus' name because the man does not belong to the Twelve, revealing a misplaced focus on 'us.'
The disciples had recently failed to cast out a demon, yet the outsider succeeds because Christ's power is not confined to their circle.
Jesus' name is not a magical formula; true ministry in his name depends on faith in the biblical person and work of Christ.
Christians must resist denominational turf wars and rejoice whenever the true gospel is faithfully proclaimed, even by those outside their tradition.
Biblical unity does not erase doctrine: believers test teaching by Scripture and refuse fellowship with a false gospel or lawlessness.
Differences over secondary and tertiary matters need not prevent genuine love, prayer, encouragement, and cooperation among Christians.
A simple cup of water offered because someone belongs to Christ displays unity by serving the Master's servant for the Master's sake.

Do I speak as though my congregation or denomination has a monopoly on Christ's work?
Can I rejoice when another gospel-believing church grows, baptizes disciples, or serves the community faithfully?
Am I testing teachers by Scripture, or merely reacting to whether they belong to my group?
Which doctrines define the gospel, and which differences are secondary or tertiary matters over which charity is possible?
Have I mistaken the phrase 'in Jesus' name' for sincerity while ignoring the biblical identity and teaching of Jesus?
How can I pray for, encourage, or share hospitality with Christians from another faithful tradition?
What small 'cup of water' can I offer someone serving Christ this week?

Jesus-focused unity: Fellowship centered on the biblical Christ and his gospel rather than loyalty to one leader, congregation, or denomination.
Sectarianism: Treating one's own Christian group as though it alone possesses Christ's people and work.
Ecumenism: The pursuit of visible Christian unity, which must be governed by biblical truth rather than unity at any cost.
Secondary doctrine: A real theological difference that may limit church organization without necessarily denying the gospel.
False gospel: Teaching that changes the saving message of Christ and therefore cannot serve as a basis for Christian unity.
Hospitality: Practical care offered to Christ's servants because they belong to him, even across denominational boundaries.