Chapter 202—Brings Harmony
Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on
me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art
in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world
may believe that thou hast sent me.
John 17:20, 21
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After the descent of the Holy Spirit the disciples went forth to proclaim
a risen Saviour, their one desire the salvation of souls. They rejoiced in
the sweetness of the communion with saints. They were tender, thoughtful,
self-denying, willing to make any sacrifice for the truth’s sake. In their
daily association with one another they revealed the love that Christ had
commanded them to reveal....
Harmony and union existing among men of varied dispositions is the
strongest witness that can be borne that God has sent His Son into the world
to save sinners. It is our privilege to bear this witness. But, in order to do
this, we must place ourselves under Christ’s command. Our characters must
be molded in harmony with His character, our wills must be surrendered to
His will.
We are of the same faith, members of one family, all children of the
same heavenly Father, with the same blessed hope of immortality. How
close and tender should be the tie that binds us together. The people of the
world are watching us to see if our faith is exerting a sanctifying influence
upon our hearts. They are quick to discern every defect in our lives, every
inconsistency in our actions. Let us give them no occasion to reproach our
faith....
Little differences dwelt upon lead to actions that destroy Christian
fellowship. Let us not allow the enemy thus to gain the advantage over
us. Let us keep drawing nearer to God and to one another.... The heart of the
Saviour is set upon His followers’ fulfilling God’s purpose in all its height
and depth. They are to be one in Him, even though they are scattered the
world over.... When Christ’s prayer is fully believed, ... unity of action will
be seen in our ranks. Brother will be bound to brother by the golden bonds
of the love of Christ. The Spirit of God alone can bring about this oneness.
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