The Exhortation to Unity – Summary: Paul begins by showing that unity is rooted in what believers already share in Christ: encouragement, love, fellowship in the Spirit, affection, and mercy. Because we are different from the world and belong to Christ, we are called to live as one body.
Something to think about: Where do you need to pursue unity more intentionally in your church family?
 
The Foundation for Unity – Summary: Christian unity is not based on personality, preference, or convenience. It is built on Christ’s love, the Spirit’s fellowship, and the mercy God has shown us.
Something to think about: How does remembering what Christ has done for you change the way you treat others?
 
The Formula for Unity – Summary: Paul tells believers to reject selfish ambition and conceit while choosing humility and consideration for others. Pride divides, but humility makes room for love and unity.
Something to think about: What is one area where selfishness or pride may be hurting your relationships?
 
The Example of Christ – Summary: Jesus is the perfect model of humility. Though fully God, He did not cling to His rights but took the form of a servant, became truly human, and obeyed the Father even to death on a cross.
Something to think about: How can Christ’s humility reshape your attitude this week?
 
The Exaltation of Christ – Summary: The humbled Christ is now highly exalted. One day every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.
Something to think about: Have you bowed your heart to Jesus as Lord now?

Unity in the Church – Ask God to help us love one another with humility and patience.
 
Freedom from Pride – Pray that God would reveal and remove selfish ambition and conceit from our hearts.
 
The Mind of Christ – Ask God to shape our attitudes to look more like Jesus.
 
Servant-Hearted Love – Pray that we would consider others more significant than ourselves.
 
Joyful Surrender – Ask God to help us bow before Jesus as Lord in every part of life.