Archive:
Author: Jeff Bennett

The Heart of Disunity

Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. – James 4:1-2, NKJV – The reason we fight and quarrel is not very mysterious. Neither is the reason for disunity in our relationships and the church as a whole. Scripture makes the cause plain as day....

A Letter From Pastor Jeremy Ellis

At the age of forty-two, all I have known is the church and ministry. My family grew up in church, and I have been a pastor for the past two decades. The one thing that has been alarmingly consistent and ubiquitous is that the Church operates more in disunity than unity. This has become the elephant in the room that we never address; instead,...

A New Commandment

As I have loved you … love one another. (John 13:34) Not long after washing the disciples’ feet, Jesus said to them: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you” (John 13:34). Though God had always commanded His people to love one another, Jesus set a new standard. He sacrificed His life for the eternal good...

The Profit of All

There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all. – 1 Corinthians 12:4–7 – The one God exists eternally as three distinct persons: the Father,...

The Greatest Reconciliation

Though sin fractured and brought enmity into every good relationship in the universe, it pleased the Father to reconcile everything through the sacrificial death and resurrection of His Son. Though hostility existed in our relationship to God, Christ has “made peace through the blood of His cross” (Colossians 1:20 NASB). All who turn from their sin, trust in Christ, and submit to Him as...

Forgiven People Forgive

The key to forgiveness is found in the phrase “even as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4: 32 NKJV). We receive forgiveness from God because Jesus Christ bore the punishment for sin in our place. We go free because Jesus paid the cost. This goes to the heart of what forgiveness is. It involves the canceling of a debt owed. The debt does...

Jesus Served His Disciples

Before the Passover celebration, Jesus knew that his hour had come to leave this world and return to his Father. He had loved his disciples during his ministry on earth, and now he loved them to the very end. It was time for supper, and the devil had already prompted Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that the Father had...

Christian Unity is God-Initiated

God is the origin of Christian unity, not man. This must be the case because the terms of entrance into union with one another is the regeneration of the soul through union with Christ, and only God can bring about this supernatural work. Jesus says, “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last...

Hope & Unity

Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. – Revelation 21:3 – The glorious outcome of the gospel of Jesus Christ is God dwelling with His people in perfect fellowship for the ages to come. This is a distinctively Christian hope. The sin...

In Deed and Truth

Whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. – 1 John 3:17–18 – Christians confess with their mouths that Jesus is Lord and believe in their hearts God raised...

Questions About Be United in Christ

What is the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry? The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry is a non-denominational, non-profit organization committed to teaching and promoting Christian unity in accordance with God’s Word in order to bring about real change in the body of Christ. Through carefully researching, writing, publishing, and promoting a library of Bible-based resources that quote thousands of passages of Scripture and...

If Possible, Live at Peace with All People

If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. (Romans 12:18) Some people like to fight. No matter what we do, they won’t live at peace with us. They hate our convictions. They are alienated by our love for God. They hate our gospel and our devotion to Jesus Christ. We find ourselves feeling like the psalmist when he...

Continually Sowing Discord

A worthless person, a wicked man, walks with a perverse mouth; he winks with his eyes, he shuffles his feet, he points with his fingers; perversity is in his heart, he devises evil continually, he sows discord. Therefore his calamity shall come suddenly; suddenly he shall be broken without remedy. – Proverbs 6:12–15 – Some people sow discord like farmers sow seed. They plot and scheme....

Unity with Christ Is Essential

[That we] may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ (Ephesians 4:15). Unity with Christ is essential to the life of His church. People sometimes lose a foot or a leg or an arm or an eye or an ear. It is remarkable how a person can continue to exist after they have lost several of their limbs, but they cannot...

Don’t Meddle

The Bible speaks ill of those who meddle: He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own / Is like one who takes a dog by the ears. (Proverbs 26:17) We hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies. (2 Thessalonians 3:10–11) They learn to be idle, wandering about from house to...

Why Should I Care About Christian Unity?

Christians should care deeply about unity because God does. He sent His Son to be crucified in order to reconcile sinners not only to Him but also with one another (Ephesians 2:11–21). Jesus issued a new commandment for believers to love one another as the visible validation to the world that they are indeed His disciples (John 13:34–35), and He cared about this new...

Don’t Divide Over Minor Differences

“One person esteems one day above another; another esteems every day alike. Let each be fully convinced in his own mind.” – Romans 14:5 – Christians have a terrible tendency to exaggerate minor differences, as though every difference in religion were a differing religion. This all-or-nothing attitude is divisive and rejects the legitimate distinctions that can and should exist between our Lord’s disciples. Though Christ’s troops...

The Word Became Flesh

My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior – Luke 1:46-47 – Christ’s birth changed the world! When God sent His son to earth, He saw broken, sinful people who were separated from Him. And yet, He still sent Jesus to be born as a human and forgive us from our sins! At Christmas, we celebrate that the Word became flesh. God...

4 Key Questions to Ask Before Helping Others Resolve Conflict

He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own is like one who takes a dog by the ears. (Proverbs 26:17) Though helping to resolve conflict between fellow believers is an act of love, meddling in disputes is not. Inserting yourself into a conflict that isn’t yours is about as helpful as grabbing a pit bull by the ears. It will not...

Unity Through Restoration

Aim for restoration. – 2 Corinthians 13:11 ESV – Consider the goals you set for yourself in life. Maybe you have educational or career goals. Perhaps you want to save a certain amount of money by a certain time or have a certain amount in your retirement fund by a certain year. It could be that you’re trying to lose a specific amount of weight or...

2023 Christmas Gift Guide

Give the Gift of Growth this Christmas. Are you looking for a Christmas gift that will help your friends and family members to grow? Check out our Premium Collection of books! Whether you pick our devotional, Grace for Everyday Living, or our practical look at unity, Christian Unity and You, you’re sure to delight the reader in your life. Place your order by Dec. 6th to receive it in time...

The Priority of Reconciliation

If you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. – Matthew 5:23–24 – Religious people tend to believe that religious rituals are what God desires. Jesus disagrees. Going through the motions of devotion is...

Cultivating Unity

Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace – Ephesians 4:3 – Let us cultivate everything that would tend toward unity. Are any sick? Let us care for them. Are any suffering? Let us weep with them. Do we know people who are less loved than others? Then let us have more love for them in order to make up this...

Violating the Unity of the Spirit

Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” – Ephesians 4:3 – Any church that lifts up its head on high and boasts over other churches has violated the unity of the Spirit. If other churches reply, “One is our Master, and we are all brothers,” they do not violate the unity of the Spirit, for they simply claim their rights...

God Causes Growth

Neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase. – 1 Corinthians 3:7 – When Christian leaders compete with one another, or when their followers compare them against one another, disunity results. Proudly boasting of what God accomplishes through us is divisive, and it arrogantly diverts glory to us that belongs to God alone. He alone plants churches and causes...

One Heart for God

I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within them, and take the stony heart out of their flesh, and give them a heart of flesh. – Ezekiel 11:19 – The sinful heart we received at our birth was a heart of stone, hardened to God, unwilling to obey His Word. The unity we shared with the human race was a...

Questions About Our Free Resources?

What does Be United in Christ hope to do with our free resources? Our Basic Resources are intended to teach the Word of God in matters related to love, peace, reconciliation, and unity in the body of Christ. They are intended to convict of sin, stir repentance, and motivate forgiveness so that relationships among Christians can be reconciled and strengthened in Jesus Christ. They are...

Handle Anger Carefully

Whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment. – Matthew 5:22 – Being angry with someone is not necessarily wrong, provided our anger arises for righteous reasons and is handled in a righteous way. More often than not we are angry for selfish reasons. Being angry with a brother or sister “without a cause” is sinful and places us...

The Unity of the Universe

The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork. (Psalm 19:1) When God created the universe, He called it good (Genesis 1:4). What made it good was that He made everything with beautiful order that declared His glory. It showed His handiwork. From the orbits of planets in our solar system to the arrangement of atoms in our atmosphere, there was...

Think and Speak for Peace

“Speak each man the truth to his neighbor; give judgment in your gates for truth, justice, and peace; let none of you think evil in your heart against your neighbor; and do not love a false oath. For all these are things that I hate,” says the Lord. – Zechariah 8:16–17 – When all we care about is winning arguments, we end up speaking all kinds...

Don’t Judge Another’s Motives

“Who are you to judge another’s servant?” – Romans 14:4–5 – To obey God, we must not only follow our own consciences but also love and respect those whose convictions differ from our own. In the gray areas of the Christian life, we should focus on obeying what Christ commands us to do, not on what He may be commanding others to do. We will answer...

Who Is a Christian?

God’s will is for Christians to be united. But who are the Christians we should unite with?  Who is a Christian? A Christian is someone who is “in Christ,” someone who by grace through faith is related to Jesus in a saving way, so that His atonement delivers them from their sins. It is in Christ that sinners are regenerated, redeemed, forgiven, justified, and reconciled. We...

Before the Foundation of the World

I and My Father are one. – John 10:30 – From eternity past there has been unity. It existed in God before the creation of the world. God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit have always been one. They exist in harmony. When Jesus says, “I and My Father are one,” He refers to the unity He enjoys and has always enjoyed...

Peaceful Hearts, Peaceful Lives

You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. – Isaiah 26:3 – The key to a peaceful life is a peaceful heart. We cannot dwell in peace with others if we are loaded down with anxiety and stress. Our minds will be too occupied with personal comfort and preservation to love other people. Unrest on the inside...

A New Commandment

As I have loved you … love one another. (John 13:34) Not long after washing the disciples’ feet, Jesus said to them: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you” (John 13:34). Though God had always commanded His people to love one another, Jesus set a new standard. He sacrificed His life for the eternal good...

Searching for Answers About Division?

Learn More About Our Resources Ed Glover, Founder and President of Urban Impact, points you to a ministry with answers to your questions about division among believers today: the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry. Learn more: BeUnitedinChrist.com

Unity Through Joy

Finally, brothers, rejoice. – 2 Corinthians 13:11 ESV – In closing his second epistle to the Corinthians, the apostle Paul offers a few final words of exhortation. He begins these words with an affectionate address, “brothers,” and then a call to joy. Though his words in the letter were heavy and challenging, he wants them to know that they’re family. He speaks to them as a brother speaks....

Keeping the Unity of the Spirit

“Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” – Ephesians 4:3 – The unity of the Spirit should be kept, dear friends, because Satan is so busy to spoil it. He knows that the greatest glory of Christ will spring from the unity of His church. “That they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in...

Less Rigid, More Pliable

“I know and am convinced by the Lord Jesus that there is nothing unclean of itself” – Romans 14:14 – Some Christians pride themselves on being strict and stern. Their idea of righteousness is having rigid requirements that must be precisely followed. They pride themselves on their uncompromising standards, not caring that their harsh legalism is divisive. As Jeremiah Burroughs warns: “Rigid, harsh, sour spirits are...

Sinful Anger Separates Us

The Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen? If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it.” – Genesis 4:6-7, NKJV – Though Cain never admits being angry, the Lord sees it. The Lord names...

The Encouragement of Faith

For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be established—that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me. – Romans 1:11-12, NKJV –   The apostle longed to see the Christians in Rome for a marvelous reason: “that I may impart to you some spiritual gift.” He...

Learn, Apply, and Share: Three Steps Towards Christian Unity

The first step in pursuing and honoring Christ’s passion for unity is to LEARN what the Bible really says. The Holy Spirit provides divine power to understand and apply the rich truth about Christian unity revealed in God’s Word. We encourage you to read and meditate upon the thousands of Bible passages found in our Basic Resources and our Premium Collection of Books.  In your...

Differing with Deference

“Do not rebuke an older man, but exhort him as a father” – 1 Timothy 5:1 – Disrespecting respected people is divisive. When we demean those whom others esteem, we offend people who then defend their leader, often by attacking us. So how should we differ with notable figures without creating conflict? Jeremiah Burroughs offers six pieces of advice. Our first response should be to humbly and...

John Brown Discusses the Need for Unity in Ministry

John Brown, Pastor and Church Planter, explains the need for love-based Christian unity in every ministry environment, and introduces the work of the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry.

The Art of Taking Responsibility

Why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye? – Matthew 7:3 – When conflict enters our relationships, we can be tempted to blame everyone and everything else. The sins of others seem perfectly clear to us—the tone of their voices, the errors in their logic, their selfishness and faulty memory—and their offenses stand out....

Pride Brings Strife

By pride comes nothing but strife, but with the well-advised is wisdom. – Proverbs 13:10 – Perhaps the single greatest cause of strife in the body of Christ is pride. Not only does pride repel people and create division in our relationships, but it gives birth to countless other sins that also create division. Pride moves us to say hurtful things. Pride hardens our hearts to correction. It makes...

The Unity of True Worship

They sang a new song, saying: “You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals; for You were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation.” – Revelation 5:9 – When we appear before God in glory, we will sing a new song in perfect harmony without disruption. There will be no division....

All Things in Common

The multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. – Acts 4:32 – In the early church there was a pattern of voluntary generosity among the disciples of Jesus Christ brought about by the Holy Spirit out of love for one...

Be Joined to Some Visible Church

The whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies – Ephesians 4:16 – You by yourselves are not the church, and you must not keep on saying “we” if you are not doing anything in connection with your church. You must consider yourself as a distinct individual, and your first concern in the sight of God must be yourself. The body is made...

The Greatest Reconciliation

Though sin fractured and brought enmity into every good relationship in the universe, it pleased the Father to reconcile everything through the sacrificial death and resurrection of His Son. Though hostility existed in our relationship to God, Christ has “made peace through the blood of His cross” (Colossians 1:20 NASB). All who turn from their sin, trust in Christ, and submit to Him as...

Forgiven People Forgive

The key to forgiveness is found in the phrase “even as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4: 32 NKJV). We receive forgiveness from God because Jesus Christ bore the punishment for sin in our place. We go free because Jesus paid the cost. This goes to the heart of what forgiveness is. It involves the canceling of a debt owed. The debt does not magically...

Forgiven Much, love Much

To whom little is forgiven, the same loves little. – Luke 7:47 – Jesus was dining at a Pharisee’s house when a sinful woman came and washed His feet with her tears, dried them with her hair, and then anointed them with fragrant oil. The Pharisee was upset. If Jesus were truly a prophet, then surely He would know the woman’s character and forbid her to...

Armed with the Same Mind

Since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. – 1 Peter 4:1–2 – An army of ants can accomplish great things together...

The Master Plan of Reconciliation

God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation. – 2 Corinthians 5:19 – The work of reconciliation is not a small, peripheral aspect of God’s plan of salvation. Reconciliation is central to it. From the moment sin entered the world, God was carrying out His plan to atone for our sin...

One Flock under One Shepherd

Other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd. – John 10:16 – Christians are united to one another because of their common unity with the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ. We are one flock because we belong to Him. Our unity must be founded upon...

Do Not Be a Cause of Stumbling

Let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother’s way. – Romans 14:13 – Passing judgment on other Christians is easy. Supporting their freedom in Christ is hard. Yet this is what the Lord requires. Some Christians feel free to wear jeans or shorts to church services. Others feel free to eat...

Walking in the Daylight

Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy. – Romans 13:13 – When the Lord redeemed us from sin and death, He called us out of the darkness into the light (1 Peter 2:9). God shined on our hearts and gave us spiritual eyes to see His glory (2 Corinthians 4:6)....

Our Citizenship is Not of this World

Our citizenship is in Heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. – Philippians 3:20 – Citizens from the same country have a passport and an allegiance in common, especially when competing against rival nations. During the Olympic games we witness the enthusiasm and joy of people united under their nation’s flag, representing their homeland in seeking a prize. How much...

Humility

Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. – Philippians 2:5–7 – Pride is the main source of conflict, which makes humility essential for unity. Only...

What Unites Us

You are all one in Christ Jesus – Galatians 3:28 – What is the bond that keeps these united ones together? Among other things, there is the bond of having the same origin. Every person who is a partaker of the life of God has sprung from the same divine Father. The Spirit of God has enlivened all the faithful alike. We discover the same life...

Continually Sowing Discord

A worthless person, a wicked man, walks with a perverse mouth; he winks with his eyes, he shuffles his feet, he points with his fingers; perversity is in his heart, he devises evil continually, he sows discord. Therefore his calamity shall come suddenly; suddenly he shall be broken without remedy. – Proverbs 6:12–15 – Some people sow discord like farmers sow seed. They plot and scheme....

The Hope of Our Unity

And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God.” (Revelation 21:3, NKJV) It’s difficult to find motivation for a cause that is doomed to fail. If going to the gym every day and putting ourselves...

Spurgeon on our Union with Christ at Christmas

That they may be one, just as We are one; I in them and You in Me, that they may be perfected in unity, so that the world may know that You sent Me, and You loved them, just as You loved Me. – John 17:22-23 – We have nearly arrived at the great merry-making season of the year. On Christmas day we shall find all...

Jesus: The Word Made Flesh

The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. – John 1:14 At Christmas, we celebrate that the Word became flesh. God did not appear again with thunder and lightning as at Mount Sinai. Instead, He came to earth as a little baby we could approach and adore. He dwelt among us as...

Enter our 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway!

Starting on December 10th, you’ll have a chance to win one of the books in our Premium Collection! Each day, we’ll highlight a different book across Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. To enter for a chance to win, share that day’s 12 Days of Christmas post on your own account and tag us! One winner will be chosen each day to receive that day’s highlighted book. Posts...

Christian Unity Glorifies God

The ultimate aim of our unity as Christians is the glory of God. That is, to worship, honor, and exalt Him with one voice. Listen to how Paul closes his letter to the Romans: May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the...

Thanksgiving and Peace

Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. – Colossians 3:15 NKJV – When our faith is rooted in Christ and His grace is conforming us to His image, thanksgiving overflows in our hearts. Deep gratitude is a natural outworking of our salvation. We deserve wrath. God gives us mercy and forgiveness instead. Nothing is...

Grown through Trials

Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. – James 1:2-4 NKJV – In his letter to a suffering saint, John Newton conveyed a precious truth of Scripture that few of us come to fully appreciate in this lifetime....

One Mediator

There is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus. – 1 Timothy 2:5 – There is only one way to God and that is through Jesus Christ. All other roads are false. All other means of approaching God and satisfying His justice will only provoke Him to wrath. No good works we do will ever be enough, which is why we...

Joints and Bones

“Joined and knit together by what every joint supplies.” – Ephesians 4:16 – I know some brothers who would make splendid people if everyone else were dead, for they are very loving and friendly toward themselves. They would be just the sort of folk to become hermits—shut them up in a cave with a bucket of water and a loaf of bread, and all their virtues...

Are We in a Battle?

Among the divisions of Reuben there were great resolves of heart … Gilead stayed beyond the Jordan, and why did Dan remain on ships? Asher continued at the seashore, and stayed by his inlets. – Judges 5:15–17 – When the Lord called His people to fight against the king of Canaan, several tribes refused to come. Their interests lay elsewhere. The tribe of Reuben considered helping the other tribes but...

The Profit of All

There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all. – 1 Corinthians 12:4–7 – The one God exists eternally as three distinct persons: the Father,...

A New Commandment

As I have loved you … love one another. (John 13:34) Not long after washing the disciples’ feet, Jesus said to them: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you” (John 13:34). Though God had always commanded His people to love one another, Jesus set a new standard. He sacrificed His life for the eternal good...

Blessed Are the Peacemakers

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. – Matthew 5:9 – The Lord Jesus Christ begins His Sermon on the Mount by outlining the anatomy of a truly blessed soul. He defines real spiritual health. He does not speak as the world speaks, because the blessedness He offers does not fit the world’s pattern. His kingdom is not of this world...

Stirring up Love, Good Works, and Unity

And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. – Hebrews 10:24–25 Our Lord’s return often feels distant, but in reality He could come at anytime. His Day approaches closer every...

One in Christ

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. – Galatians 3:28 Throughout church history we have struggled to embrace the truth of this verse. All of us are one in Christ Jesus, which means ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and gender mean nothing when standing before God. All of...

The Pursuit of Peace

Let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another. – Romans 14:19 – Peace does not happen by accident. We must pursue the things that make for peace. Human beings naturally quarrel and manipulate to get what they want. However, it takes effort to resist our impulses, rest in the gospel of peace, and pursue...

The Toll of Conflict

But if you are always biting and devouring one another, watch out! Beware of destroying one another. – Galatians 5:15 NLT Conflict takes a heavy toll on our relationships and on our churches. Every careless sentence spoken for the sake of winning an argument disrupts our fellowship with one another. Harsh words are like piranha bites wounding and tearing Christ’s body. If conflict continues, the...

Called to Something Better

You are jealous of one another and quarrel with each other. Doesn’t that prove you are controlled by your sinful nature? Aren’t you living like people of the world? – 1 Corinthians 3:3 NLT Followers of Jesus Christ are not to live like people of the world. We are not to live in envy, strife, and division. These vices belong to worldly people, not to...

Bear with the Weak

We who are strong must be considerate of those who are sensitive about things like this. We must not just please ourselves. (Romans 15:1 NLT) The strength Paul refers to is a strength of faith, the firm conviction that Jesus Christ paid for sin, fulfilled the Law, and set us free to enjoy the gifts of God for His glory. The conscience of those who...

Love Is a Duty

“Believers have a duty of affectionate, sincere, genuine love in all things towards one another; a love compared to that of Christ for the church.” ~ John Owen* The modern mind finds these kinds of statements quite offensive. Christians tend to find them offensive as well. How dare anyone tell them who to love, and how much! We do not like our affections being commanded....

The Lamb is Worthy

“You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals; for You were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, and have made us kings and priests to our God; and we shall reign on the earth.” (Revelation 5:9-10, NKJV) Someday these words will be sung in honor of Jesus...

Discover Jesus’ Heart for Unity

Jason Burtt, President and CEO of Unaltered Ministries, presents a compelling reminder that Jesus’ desire for His people is love-based unity.

Spurgeon Answers, “What Is the Unity of the Spirit?”

Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:3) Let us ask ourselves, “Do we have the unity of the Spirit?” No one can have it except those who have the Spirit, and the Spirit only dwells in born again, believing souls. By virtue of having the Spirit, every believer is in unity with every other spiritual person, and...

The Unity of the Universe

The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork. (Psalm 19:1) When God created the universe, He called it good (Genesis 1:4). What made it good was that He made everything with beautiful order that declared His glory. It showed His handiwork. From the orbits of planets in our solar system to the arrangement of atoms in our atmosphere, there was...

A New Commandment

As I have loved you … love one another. (John 13:34) Not long after washing the disciples’ feet, Jesus said to them: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you” (John 13:34). Though God had always commanded His people to love one another, Jesus set a new standard. He sacrificed His life for the eternal good...

If Possible, Live at Peace with All People

If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. (Romans 12:18) Some people like to fight. No matter what we do, they won’t live at peace with us. They hate our convictions. They are alienated by our love for God. They hate our gospel and our devotion to Jesus Christ. We find ourselves feeling like the psalmist when he...

Searching for Answers About Division?

Learn More About Our Resources Ed Glover, Founder and President of Urban Impact, points you to a ministry with answers to your questions about division among believers today: the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry. Learn more: BeUnitedinChrist.com

What is Be United in Christ?

The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry was created by more than fifty individuals in ten states, united by a desire to see God’s will for Christian unity realized in His church today. Beyond our common cause, our team shares several characteristics. We are evangelical. Every member of our team is a devoted follower of Jesus Christ and believes that the Bible is the inspired Word...

Truth and Unity

Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. – John 17:17 – Soon after Solomon died, Israel divided into a northern kingdom ruled by Jeroboam and a southern kingdom ruled by Rehoboam. Fearing he would lose his people’s allegiance if they kept returning to the temple in Jerusalem, Jeroboam made two gold idols for his subjects to worship and instituted a new priesthood to keep them...

The Patience of the Lord Reconciles Us

The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. – 2 Peter 3:9, NKJV – Let us be constantly thankful to the Lord for His marvelous patience toward us. If He was quick-tempered, or unwilling to bear with our folly and sin until the day of our salvation, then we...

The Father’s Children Should Fellowship

Our Father in Heaven – Matthew 6:9 – Suppose two people were to meet here tonight who did not know each other. As they begin to talk to one another, one says, “My father’s name is So-and-so,” and the other looks at him and says, “Where does he live?” “He lives in this house in this city.” “Does he? Why, that is my father, too!”...

Questions About Our Free Resources?

What does Be United in Christ hope to do with our free resources? Our Basic Resources are intended to teach the Word of God in matters related to love, peace, reconciliation, and unity in the body of Christ. They are intended to convict of sin, stir repentance, and motivate forgiveness so that relationships among Christians can be reconciled and strengthened in Jesus Christ. They are...

The Heart of Disunity

Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. – James 4:1-2, NKJV – The reason we fight and quarrel is not very mysterious. Neither is the reason for disunity in our relationships and the church as a whole. Scripture makes the cause plain as day....

I Gave You an Example

He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet. – John 13:5 – While Jesus was reclining with His disciples at the last supper, there arose “a dispute among them, as to which of them should be considered the greatest” (Luke 22:24). So Jesus rose from the table, stripped off His garments, wrapped a towel about Him, and washed His disciples’...

Unity With Christ is Essential for All

“[The Son] is the Head of the body, the church.” – Colossians 1:18 – Unity with Christ the Head is essential to every member of His church. Not only is it essential for the body as a whole but also for every member of that body in particular. It is no use for my little finger to have unity with my hand and my arm if...

Teaching Bible-based Christian Unity in New Jersey

The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry sponsored the teaching of Bible-based Christian unity at a large worship center in New Jersey. Believers were encouraged to learn God’s will concerning Christian unity and how to live it out in their everyday lives. This fell right in line with the church’s mission to “proclaim and demonstrate the love of God to the world.” What better way...

Avoid those Who Cause Division

Note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. – Romans 16:17 – Parents watch out for what might harm their kids. Teachers are alert for fights on the playground. Churches must take note of false teachers, for they will harm God’s children and start fights among them. The unity of the church depends upon separation from “those...

Partnering with Rescue Mission of the Mahoning Valley

The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry has partnered with the Rescue Mission of the Mahoning Valley, a Christian-based homeless shelter in Ohio. Their goal is to serve and glorify God through a Christ-centered outreach of love and compassion that responds to the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the disadvantaged no matter who they are. This mission not only focused on transitioning clients back into...

God Built us for Community

We all need peace and healing because we all experience conflict and division. We want harmony but endure discord. We desire unity but suffer strife. We fight with friends, feud with family, and struggle with spouses—hurting and harming the very ones who should be our chief comforts and delights. Conflict and division are very real in the church today. That’s why we’ve written books that explore the themes of...

Seeing Lives Transformed at Adult and Teen Challenge

The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry provides periodic funding to an international Christian-based drug and alcohol rehabilitation program focused on discipleship and transitioning clients back into the community to lead healthy, productive, Christ-centered lives. In this photo, students commit their lives to Christ during a baptism ceremony at a local river.

The Greatest Reconciliation

Though sin fractured and brought enmity into every good relationship in the universe, it pleased the Father to reconcile everything through the sacrificial death and resurrection of His Son. Though hostility existed in our relationship to God, Christ has “made peace through the blood of His cross” (Colossians 1:20 NASB). All who turn from their sin, trust in Christ, and submit to Him as...

Forgiven People Forgive

This week, we’re focusing on a theme central to the Easter story: forgiveness. Forgiven People Forgive The key to forgiveness is found in the phrase “even as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4: 32 NKJV). We receive forgiveness from God because Jesus Christ bore the punishment for sin in our place. We go free because Jesus paid the cost. This goes to the heart of what forgiveness...

Jesus Served His Disciples

“Before the Passover celebration, Jesus knew that his hour had come to leave this world and return to his Father. He had loved his disciples during his ministry on earth, and now he loved them to the very end. It was time for supper, and the devil had already prompted Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that the Father had...

Hosting Vacation Bible School in Matamoros

The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry partnered with an international ministry based in Texas to fulfill their missions to take the message of Jesus Christ to the nations by hosting a vacation Bible school in Matamoros, Mexico. It was a wonderful time of sowing the Word of God into the hearts of at-risk children and youth. The hearts of the young were softened each...

The Cross Brings Hope

As we get nearer to Good Friday, it can be easy to get lost in the darkness and pain that surrounds Christ’s death on the cross. However, while Good Friday is bleak, the Easter story is actually one of hope in the midst of death. Salvation for a world drowning in sin. Christ’s death and later resurrection, gives us hope that we can be made...

Sponsoring Gospel Outreach in the Ivory Coast

Workers at a Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry sponsored crusade in the Ivory Coast express their excitement about the night’s service. In 2011, the nation suffered a military coup, and many lives were lost. Despite government opposition and many challenges, Christian leaders are standing strong together, united in Christ. We were honored to support the spreading of the gospel to this region of the world...

Christ’s Death Allows Us to Be Holy

As we continue our Lent series, this week, we’re looking at an important aspect of the Christian life: holiness. The path to holiness begins with a new standing before God. As Christians, the apostle Paul calls us “God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved” (Colossians 3:12 ESV). The truth is stunning. Not simply that God chose and loves us, but that He would now call us...

How the Gospel Enables Us to Love

As we move through Lent, each week, we’re focusing on a different aspect of how Christ’s death and resurrection should affect the way we live our lives. This week, we’re looking at how Christ has made it possible to truly love others. How the Gospel Enables Us to Love   The love with which the Father loves us is an enormous love. It sent His Son to...

Sharing the Gospel in Zimbabwe Through Clean Water

In the rural area of Chitsungo, Zimbabwe, basic necessities such as clean water and medicine are hard to find. The primary water source is occupied by hippos, creating an environment ripe for waterborne illnesses. The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry contributed to the funding of a free medical clinic that treated 7,449 patients over the course of a week and provided 5,370 LifeStraws to...

Join Us in Celebrating Lent

This week is the first week of Lent, a season to reflect on the sacrifice Christ made to save us from our sin. The 40 days of Lent reflect the 40 days that Christ spent in the wilderness fasting and praying while he was tempted by Satan (Matthew 4:1-11). These 40 days of sacrifice and prayer marked the beginning of His ministry and traditionally...

Caring for Orphans in Nairobi, Kenya

This sweet boy gets his very own bed for the first time ever. Look at the joy on his face! Before coming to this orphanage, he was sleeping on the dirt under the stars. Now, by God’s grace and with the help of the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry, he will be raised in a facility that is better than most of the surrounding homes,...

The Problem with Superficial Unity

Peace be within your walls, prosperity within your palaces. For the sake of my brethren and companions, I will now say, “Peace be within you.” – Psalm 122:7-8, NKJV – Any peace we enjoy with our unbelieving neighbors is pointless if we do not have peace within the walls of the church. When brothers dwell in unity it is a good and pleasant gift from the Lord (Psalm 133:1)....

Learn, Apply, and Share: Three Steps Towards Christian Unity

The first step in pursuing and honoring Christ’s passion for unity is to LEARN what the Bible really says. The Holy Spirit provides divine power to understand and apply the rich truth about Christian unity revealed in God’s Word. We encourage you to read and meditate upon the thousands of Bible passages found in our Basic Resources and our Premium Collection of Books.  In your...

How the Gospel Enables Us to Love

An Excerpt from Christian Unity and You The love with which the Father loves us is an enormous love. It sent His Son to die in our place. “God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8 NKJV). In all the ways we fail to keep the law of love, Jesus kept it. Rather...

Sharing the Gospel in Maua, Kenya

A church volunteer engages with children at a local school in Maua, Kenya. His team was sponsored by the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry to go into schools across Maua and share the salvation story with local students. They showed love by ministering the gospel and providing students with much-needed school supplies, soccer balls, the rare treat of candy, and bracelets to remind the...

Avoid Those Who Cause Division

Note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. – Romans 16:17 – The unity of the church depends upon separation from “those who cause divisions and offenses.” Any member of the church walking in unrepentant sin, especially blatant sin against others, causes division. They harm other Christians without true remorse. Any professing Christian spreading lies about other...

Speaking About Christian Unity in Brazil

In Campinas, Brazil, a local church received a representative of the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry to speak to the several thousand in attendance about the power of unity within the body of Christ. These now-activated leaders and believers are sharing the message of unity amongst their 38 affiliated churches in Brazil (with membership exceeding 10,000) and throughout their local communities!

In Deed and Truth

Whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. – 1 John 3:17–18 – Christians confess with their mouths that Jesus is Lord and believe in their hearts God raised...

Partnering to Care for the Homeless in Latvia

Church volunteers share the gospel while meeting physical needs at a homeless ministry sponsored by the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry in Riga, Latvia. Ministries like these are vital to the health of those without a place to call home — especially as the colder months approach in Europe. It is not uncommon for ambulance crews to receive more than five calls a week...

What is the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry?

This week, we’re taking the time to answer a few questions you might have about our ministry. To learn more, we invite you to check out our complete FAQ page here. What is the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry? The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry is a non-denominational, non-profit organization committed to teaching and promoting Christian unity in accordance with God’s Word in order...

If Possible, Live at Peace with All People

If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. (Romans 12:18) Some people like to fight. No matter what we do, they won’t live at peace with us. They hate our convictions. They are alienated by our love for God. They hate our gospel and our devotion to Jesus Christ. We find ourselves feeling like the psalmist when he...

Establishing Orphanages in Nairobi, Kenya

It’s hard to believe that this adorable little boy was left abandoned with his siblings in the slums of Nairobi, Kenya. But his fate is all too common for children throughout this region. This is why the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry felt led to help establish a Christian orphanage in Nairobi. Now this boy and his siblings, and many other children, are able...

Continually Sowing Discord

A worthless person, a wicked man, walks with a perverse mouth; he winks with his eyes, he shuffles his feet, he points with his fingers; perversity is in his heart, he devises evil continually, he sows discord. Therefore his calamity shall come suddenly; suddenly he shall be broken without remedy. – Proverbs 6:12–15 – Some people sow discord like farmers sow seed. They plot and scheme....

Showing Pastors How They Can Be United in Christ

Those serving in ministry across the nation of Bulgaria and neighboring European nations gathered in the city of Stara Zagora to attend an intensive one-day pastoral conference sponsored by the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry. Leaders were instructed in how to best teach the Bible and grow the faith of those in their care. “Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God.”...

Looking Back at 2021

Happy New Year! I am Tim Hayden, President and CEO of Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry. I’d like to take a moment to thank everyone who has supported us in 2021 through prayer, donation and purchase of our Bible-based resources. Your support is truly appreciated. At this time of year, many of us are focused on working on areas of our lives that we may decide...

Partnering with Weirton Christian Center

The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry is honored to have helped fund the Weirton Christian Center, which provides free preschool, after-school, and summer programs for at-risk, disadvantaged kids in the area. These children are part of the Signs of Hope group. They learn sign language, song, and dance. Then they showcase their talent and share the message of their faith and their love for...

The Word Made Flesh

The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. – John 1:14 At Christmas, we celebrate that the Word became flesh. God did not appear again with thunder and lightning as at Mount Sinai. Instead, He came to earth as a little baby we could approach and adore. He dwelt among us as...

Providing Disaster Relief in Guatemala

Guatemala City, Guatemala – On June 3, 2018, Guatemala’s Volcán de Fuego erupted with no warning, sending massive lava flows and ash into surrounding areas and burying an entire village. Thousands of people were displaced from their homes and the death toll exceeded 100. The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry sponsored a global evangelistic ministry to install water filters for the victims in the...

Don’t Divide over Minor Differences

“One person esteems one day above another; another esteems every day alike. Let each be fully convinced in his own mind.” – Romans 14:5 –   Christians have a terrible tendency to exaggerate minor differences, as though every difference in religion were a differing religion. This all-or-nothing attitude is divisive and rejects the legitimate distinctions that can and should exist between our Lord’s disciples. Though Christ’s troops...

Using Medical Care for Missions in Ethiopia

By God’s grace, Jewish Voice Ministries International and the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry provided no-cost medical, dental and eye care to 15,919 people in Debre Birhan, Ethiopia, in just five days! This medical clinic was brought to the region based on its Jewish population, and as community members received the help they desperately needed because of their Jewish neighbors, we were able to...

Don’t Meddle

The Bible speaks ill of those who meddle: He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own / Is like one who takes a dog by the ears. (Proverbs 26:17) We hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies. (2 Thessalonians 3:10–11) They learn to be idle, wandering about from house to...

Caring for Orphans in Nairobi, Kenya

This orphanage, built in the slums of Nairobi, Kenya by the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry, will soon rescue 50 orphans from a future without hope. In this photo you see a toddler. Her unwed mother died while giving birth to her, leaving her and her three older siblings orphans. With no one to care for them, the possibilities of danger, sickness or abuse...

Stirring up Love, Good Works, and Unity

And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. – Hebrews 10:24–25 Our Lord’s return often feels distant, but in reality He could come at anytime. His Day approaches closer every...

Helping Christian Schools in Uganda

Children attending a Christian school in Mitiyana, Uganda, wait in line for food and clean water. Through our partnership with Abundant Ministries, we’ve been able to purchase Life Straws, which provide clean drinking water, until the community can complete the setup of a fresh water well. “Whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone––especially those in the family of faith.” Galatians 6:10

Thanksgiving and Peace

Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. – Colossians 3:15 NKJV – When our faith is rooted in Christ and His grace is conforming us to His image, thanksgiving overflows in our hearts. Deep gratitude is a natural outworking of our salvation. We deserve wrath. God gives us mercy and forgiveness instead. Nothing is...

2021 Christmas Gift Guide

Give the Gift of Growth this Christmas. Are you looking for a Christmas gift that will help your friends and family members to grow? Check out our Premium Collection of books! Whether you pick our devotional, Grace for Everyday Living, or our practical look at unity, Christian Unity and You, you’re sure to delight the reader in your life. Place your order by Dec. 7th to receive it in time...

Encouraging Believers in Montana to Walk in Unity

Faith-filled evangelists sponsored by the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry visited believers on Montana’s Crow Reservation. They encouraged local Christians by teaching about God’s love for believers and His desire that they be one as He is one. Salvation prayers and rededication prayers were spoken by lost loved ones, and many lives were touched during this series of events. “I pray that they will all be...

Unity Through Restoration

Aim for restoration. – 2 Corinthians 13:11 ESV – Consider the goals you set for yourself in life. Maybe you have educational or career goals. Perhaps you want to save a certain amount of money by a certain time or have a certain amount in your retirement fund by a certain year. It could be that you’re trying to lose a specific amount of weight or...

Sharing the Gospel in Lagos, Nigeria

Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry volunteers pass out flyers in the slums of Lagos, Nigeria, for upcoming open-air evangelistic meetings. By God’s grace, we helped fund this outreach into the slums, taking the gospel to those who do not often have means of transportation outside their local area. During the evening events, many came to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ and were filled...

If We Love God

If you love Me, keep My commandments. – John 14:15 – Jesus knows that our claim to love God does not always mean that we actually love God. The evidence is not found in bold words but in obedient deeds. We can say that we love our spouses, but if we speak harshly to them and despise them in our hearts, then our words are empty....

Partnering to Support Emerging Ministry Leaders

Students at a Christian university in Accra, Ghana, receive funding from the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry. This university is devoted to training students to be critical thinkers, morally sound, entrepreneurial in outlook and able to provide solutions to societal challenges. The students pictured here are being trained for ministry so that they can be released into their nation and reach the lost with the...

Think Before You Speak

“He who restrains his words has knowledge.” – Proverbs 17:27 NASB – Today we can instantly inform the world about whatever we happen to be thinking. But the Puritan pastor Jeremiah Burroughs wisely offers three cautions that help us to see how hastily sharing our opinions can cause unnecessary conflict and division between believers. Other people may misunderstand our thoughts and motives and therefore misjudge us and...

Supporting a Gospel Crusade in Kenya

Over 40,000 people came out to take part in this outdoor gospel crusade in Narok, Kenya. Narok was an area of heavy tribal warfare in 2009. Thousands were killed here. Local pastors reached out to the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry, requesting we come, minister the gospel, and help bring unity to the Christian churches. Thousands of first-time decisions for Christ were made at this...

Cultivating Unity

Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace – Ephesians 4:3 – Let us cultivate everything that would tend toward unity. Are any sick? Let us care for them. Are any suffering? Let us weep with them. Do we know people who are less loved than others? Then let us have more love for them in order to make up this...

Partnering to Equip Church Leaders

Pictured here are new graduates from a Bible school in Niger, Africa. By God’s grace and with the help of Abundant Ministries Fellowship in Ohio, the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry provided support to these students through the building of the school facility, provision of quality equipment, and selection of Bible school curriculum. Our thanks goes out to our friends at Abundant Ministries Fellowship for...

The Priority of Reconciliation

If you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. – Matthew 5:23–24 – Religious people tend to believe that religious rituals are what God desires. Jesus disagrees. Going through the motions of devotion is...

Partnering to Provide Shelter and Rehabilitation

This Christian homeless shelter in New Jersey offers emergency shelter to the homeless men and women in their community. They also offer a 36-week rehabilitation program designed to assist individuals in the recovery and healing of their lives — spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically. Through spiritual mentorship, life classes, and accountability, those who participate regain what they have lost through substance abuse and poor choices. We...

What Does it Mean to Be United in Christ?

What Does it Mean to Be United in Christ? Every born-again believer who is saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ is incorporated into the body of Christ, the church. So, all Christians are united in Christ by definition because they are all united with Christ through salvation. We are called to live out this unity by loving, serving, respecting, and forgiving one another....

What is an Exegetical Guide and How Do I Use it?

What is an exegetical guide and how do I use it? The word “exegesis” means “interpretation.” An “exegetical guide” is a Bible study and teaching tool that leads users into the correct interpretation and teaching of Scripture. So for select key passages revealing God’s will for Christian unity, we provide these detailed guides. These detailed guides introduce the passage, compare the original Hebrew or Greek...

Violating the Unity of the Spirit

Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” – Ephesians 4:3 – Any church that lifts up its head on high and boasts over other churches has violated the unity of the Spirit. If other churches reply, “One is our Master, and we are all brothers,” they do not violate the unity of the Spirit, for they simply claim their rights...

Speaking on Unity in Narok, Kenya

Over 40,000 people came out to take part in this outdoor gospel crusade in Narok, Kenya. Narok was an area of heavy tribal warfare in 2009. Thousands were killed here. Local pastors reached out to the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry, requesting we come, minister the gospel, and help bring unity to the Christian churches. Thousands of first-time decisions for Christ were made at this...

God Causes Growth

Neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase. – 1 Corinthians 3:7 – When Christian leaders compete with one another, or when their followers compare them against one another, disunity results. Proudly boasting of what God accomplishes through us is divisive, and it arrogantly diverts glory to us that belongs to God alone. He alone plants churches and causes...

Partnering for Clean Water in Kenya

Built on the site of a Christian orphanage in Mogogosiek, Kenya, this well provides fresh drinking water not only for the many orphans who live here but for thousands of people throughout the Mogogosiek community as well! Locals celebrate the digging of the well and gather around it with local pastors to commemorate the event and thank the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry for...

One Heart for God

I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within them, and take the stony heart out of their flesh, and give them a heart of flesh. – Ezekiel 11:19 – The sinful heart we received at our birth was a heart of stone, hardened to God, unwilling to obey His Word. The unity we shared with the human race was a...

Helping Single Mothers Through Grace House in Russia

The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry is honored to support missionaries to Russia in the building of Grace House, a Christian home for orphans and single Russian mothers who grew up in orphanages. They also receive and care for single mothers who have been involved in prostitution, a rampant problem across Russia. We were able to assist with the drilling of a well on the...

Staying Focused on the Gospel, not Arguments

As Christians, we’re called to relate to each other with love. In this video Robert Pavlich, CEO of Adult & Teen Challenge Ohio Valley, opens up Colossians chapter 3 to point out why this is and how it should affect our actions.

Brother’s United: The Church is One Body

This week, we’re taking a look at Paul’s analogy of the church as a body, and what this means for the church. Today’s videos are part of our ongoing Brothers United series, and you can check out the entire playlist on our YouTube channel. The Body of Christ (1 Cor 12:12–14) Brothers United 5: What Makes Us One? (Ephesians 4:4–6)

Handle Anger Carefully

Whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment. – Matthew 5:22 – Being angry with someone is not necessarily wrong, provided our anger arises for righteous reasons and is handled in a righteous way. More often than not we are angry for selfish reasons. Being angry with a brother or sister “without a cause” is sinful and places us...

Supporting a School in Sierra Leone

The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry provided funding for a new roof to this Christian elementary school in Sierra Leone. There are over 150 students at this school, and the new roof will allow them to expand the third floor and add more classrooms to accommodate students on their waiting list. In this photo, children celebrate their graduation from the school. “Let each generation tell its...

The Unity of the Universe

The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork. – Psalm 19:1 – When God created the universe, He called it good (Genesis 1:4). What made it good was that He made everything with beautiful order that declared His glory. It showed His handiwork. From the orbits of planets in our solar system to the arrangement of atoms in our atmosphere, there...

We’re Partnering with Faith Comes by Hearing

By God’s grace, six ministries spent multiple days together, strategizing how to “get God’s Word to every person and cover the world with the Word.” Those ministries were Faith Comes By Hearing (New Mexico), Jewish Voice Ministries International (Arizona), United in Christ Ministry Worldwide (Texas), Only Believe Ministries (Ohio), Abundant Ministries Fellowship (Ohio), and the Christian Fellowship Foundation (West Virginia). Faith Comes By Hearing, who...

Think and Speak for Peace

“Speak each man the truth to his neighbor; give judgment in your gates for truth, justice, and peace; let none of you think evil in your heart against your neighbor; and do not love a false oath. For all these are things that I hate,” says the Lord. – Zechariah 8:16–17 – When all we care about is winning arguments, we end up speaking all kinds...

Ministering to the Homeless in Durban

A Christian volunteer supported by our ministry befriends a homeless man in Durban, South Africa. After connecting, he shared the love of God and the hope of salvation, and then he prayed with him for his greatest needs to be met. “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Hebrews 13:16

Don’t Judge Another’s Motives

“Who are you to judge another’s servant?” – Romans 14:4–5 – To obey God, we must not only follow our own consciences but also love and respect those whose convictions differ from our own. In the gray areas of the Christian life, we should focus on obeying what Christ commands us to do, not on what He may be commanding others to do. We will answer...

Sponsoring Drug Rehabilitation in Bulgaria

A pastor stands with students from his Christian-based drug and rehab program in Sofia, Bulgaria. The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry supported this organization by providing funds to repair and remodel their facility. “Don’t you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey? You can be a slave to sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey...

Who Is a Christian?

God’s will is for Christians to be united. But who are the Christians we should unite with?  Who is a Christian? A Christian is someone who is “in Christ,” someone who by grace through faith is related to Jesus in a saving way, so that His atonement delivers them from their sins. It is in Christ that sinners are regenerated, redeemed, forgiven, justified, and reconciled. We...

Who is Be United in Christ Trying to Unite?

At Be United in Christ, our mission is to teach and promote Bible-based unity among Christians. Today, we’re trying to address exactly who it is that we’re trying to unite and how this can work among Christians who are parts of different denominations: Who are you trying to unite? The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry aims to foster a deep and genuine unity in Christ...

Peaceful Hearts, Peaceful Lives

You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. – Isaiah 26:3 – The key to a peaceful life is a peaceful heart. We cannot dwell in peace with others if we are loaded down with anxiety and stress. Our minds will be too occupied with personal comfort and preservation to love other people. Unrest on the inside...

Sharing the Importance of Christian Unity in Italy

By God’s grace, the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry was able to sponsor a seminary-trained pastor to speak at a large non-Catholic church in Rome, Italy. This evangelist shared the importance of walking in biblical Christian unity with our brothers and sisters in Christ and presented the church staff with our Premium Collection of books. We believe these books will continue to educate and inspire...

Before the Foundation of the World

I and My Father are one. – John 10:30 – From eternity past there has been unity. It existed in God before the creation of the world. God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit have always been one. They exist in harmony. When Jesus says, “I and My Father are one,” He refers to the unity He enjoys and has always enjoyed...

Partnering with Urban Impact Foundation

The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry was blessed to donate funds to the Urban Impact Foundation in Pennsylvania to assist with their after-school programs for at-risk kids. This Christian-based program addresses the profoundly unique challenges facing youth in their culturally diverse urban community. More than 1,500 students and their families receive regular ministry and care because of the commitment of Urban Impact volunteers to share...

Brother’s United: Our Responsibility for Unity

In part one of our Brother’s United series, we looked what it is that unites Christians. This week, we’re looking at the individual responsibility that believers have to maintain unity with the Christians in their lives. First, Markus and Bobby will be looking at Proverbs 6:16-19 to see just how seriously God takes the sin of divisiveness. Then, they will examine our individual responsibilities within...

Discover Resources That Will Help You to Love Other Believers

A deep love and reverence for what the Bible teaches about Christian unity is the heartbeat of the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry. We have created a library of 37 unique resources on the powerful topic of Christian unity. Our resources literally include thousands of Bible passages and wisdom from some of the greatest theologians, pastors, and preachers in church history. The Be United...

A New Commandment

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. – John 13:34 – Not long after washing the disciples’ feet, Jesus said to them: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you” (John 13:34). Why did Jesus call this commandment “new”...

Reaching Thousands with the Gospel in Ghana

The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry teamed up with one of the largest Christian chapels in Accra, Ghana, to reach thousands with the gospel message. At this event, three churches were present on the chapel’s main campus. Each shared the main message in their own native language with those in attendance. No one was left out! Then, services were broadcast via television across 17 nations...

Unity Through Joy

Finally, brothers, rejoice. – 2 Corinthians 13:11 ESV – In closing his second epistle to the Corinthians, the apostle Paul offers a few final words of exhortation. He begins these words with an affectionate address, “brothers,” and then a call to joy. Though his words in the letter were heavy and challenging, he wants them to know that they’re family. He speaks to them as a brother speaks....

Sponsoring a Clinic in Ethiopia

Workers at a Christian medical clinic in Debre Birhan, Ethiopia, send a smile and their thanks to the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry. This clinic, one of many sponsored by the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry, serves over one thousand people throughout this region. “Heal the sick, and tell them, ‘The Kingdom of God is near you now.’” Luke 10:9

Keeping the Unity of the Spirit

“Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” – Ephesians 4:3 – The unity of the Spirit should be kept, dear friends, because Satan is so busy to spoil it. He knows that the greatest glory of Christ will spring from the unity of His church. “That they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in...

Teaching Orphans About the Love of Christ!

Orphans in Matamoros, Mexico celebrate the completion a weeklong Vacation Bible School sponsored by the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry. What a joy to be partners with this special ministry to children in need! Imparting the love of Christ and training the children in God’s Word is a great privilege and responsibility that we are honored to have. “Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help...

Less Rigid, More Pliable

“I know and am convinced by the Lord Jesus that there is nothing unclean of itself” – Romans 14:14 – Some Christians pride themselves on being strict and stern. Their idea of righteousness is having rigid requirements that must be precisely followed. They pride themselves on their uncompromising standards, not caring that their harsh legalism is divisive. As Jeremiah Burroughs warns: “Rigid, harsh, sour spirits are...

Breaking Addiction and Sharing the Gospel in Georgia

Here at a Christian rescue mission in Georgia, sin and addictions come to an end and new lives begin in Jesus Christ! Founded in 1997 this 5-star rescue mission has 40 beds and is privately funded through faith and by organizations like The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry. We are honored to have provided funding that will allow them to continue strong for years to...

Discover 25 Free Resources That Will Help You Learn More about Christian Unity

The first step in pursuing and honoring Christ’s passion for unity is to learn what the Bible really says about Christian unity. That’s why we’ve created 25 free, Basic Resources that are a mixture of exegetical guides on important Bible passages on unity and book summaries from some of the greatest leaders of the Christian faith. Start your journey towards learning more about Christian unity...

Doesn’t Unity Mean Getting along with Everyone No Matter What?

The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry exists to teach and promote Christian unity. There are many ways to learn about our ministry, but one that often gets overlooked is our FAQ section. We’ve answered over 90 questions on a variety of topics. Here are just a couple: Doesn’t “unity” mean getting along with everyone no matter what? This is one of many critical errors that we hope to...

Sinful Anger Separates Us

The Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen? If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it.” – Genesis 4:6-7, NKJV – Though Cain never admits being angry, the Lord sees it. The Lord names...

Sharing the Gospel in Mexico City

In conjunction with a network of hundreds of churches in Mexico City, Mexico, the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry shared the gospel message through a series of day and evening events. Those who gave their lives to Christ at the event were able to plug directly into a local body of believers for Bible-based discipleship and accountability. ”We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God...

The Encouragement of Faith

For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be established—that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me. – Romans 1:11-12, NKJV –   The apostle longed to see the Christians in Rome for a marvelous reason: “that I may impart to you some spiritual gift.” He...

Sharing the Gospel through Medical Missions

Each day, crowds assemble from miles around at a medical clinic in Zimbabwe. Some arrive on foot, others on donkey-led carts, stretchers, and wheelbarrows. Still others, like this elderly woman, are carried to the clinic by relatives. The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry was able to help make a powerful difference in the lives of 9,645 patients by providing critical medical assistance. “There will always...

Christian Unity Does Not Come Naturally

Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the leopard its spots? Then may you also do good who are accustomed to do evil. – Jeremiah 13:23, NKJV – As fallen human beings, Christian unity only comes to us through the grace of God in Christ and diligent effort on our part. True Christian unity is “good and pleasant” (Psalm 133:1, NKJV). This means no group of...

Training Pastors in Gabon

Partnering with six churches in the United States, the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry helped establish a Bible School in Gabon, Africa. Many local congregations are now sending their pastors, church leaders, and future ministers to the Bible School for training. We are excited about the growth this school has already experienced and know that God will continue to use this location to raise up...

Differing with Deference

“Do not rebuke an older man, but exhort him as a father” – 1 Timothy 5:1 – Disrespecting respected people is divisive. When we demean those whom others esteem, we offend people who then defend their leader, often by attacking us. So how should we differ with notable figures without creating conflict? Jeremiah Burroughs offers six pieces of advice. Our first response should be to humbly and...

Feeding the Hungry in Matamoros, Mexico

The Victor Mata Soup Kitchen is located in an extremely impoverished area of Matamoros, Mexico, where thousands of people live in shacks without electricity, fresh water or sewers. The soup kitchen offers these precious individuals the gospel of Jesus Christ and supplemental meals twice a week. By serving the physical needs, a spiritual fruit is being harvested. In this photo, young missionaries make an impact...

What Does It Mean for Me to Be United in Christ?

The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry exists to teach and promote Christian unity. There are many ways to learn more about us, but one that often gets overlooked is our FAQ section. We’ve answered over 90 questions on a variety of topics. Here are just a couple: What does it mean for me to be united with Christ? Every born-again believer who is saved by grace through...

Saving Lives and Sharing God’s Love

4-month-old Collen’s life wasn’t off to a great start. He had six fingers on each of his little hands and six toes on each foot. He also had a more critical need. Collen had a large growth on his tongue — so large he couldn’t nurse. He was undernourished and small. His health was declining. By God’ grace, the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry...

Discover the Importance of Christian Unity

In the videos below, discover the Biblical basis for Christian unity and the resources that we’ve put together to equip the church to walk in it. Visit BeUnitedinChrist.com to learn more! Jesus died for our sins to unite us to God and one another Dr. John Henderson, Pastor and Professor, explains the impact of John 17 on his life and ministry, and tells us what we...

Introducing Preschoolers to Jesus

The Weirton Christian Center in West Virginia is committed to the at-risk children they serve, focusing on their spiritual, physical, and emotional needs. Each morning and before lunch, Christian teachers lead preschoolers to pray. Their spirits are filled with innocence, joy, and laughter. ”Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it.” Proverbs...

The Art of Taking Responsibility

Why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye? – Matthew 7:3 – When conflict enters our relationships, we can be tempted to blame everyone and everything else. The sins of others seem perfectly clear to us—the tone of their voices, the errors in their logic, their selfishness and faulty memory—and their offenses stand out....

Partnering with Abundant Ministries to Bring Access to Water

In the slums of Lagos, Nigeria, the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry partnered with Abundant Ministries Fellowship by providing funding for the drilling of a water well and water treatment plant adjacent to church property. In this photo, the community celebrates the dedication of the well and their now unlimited, free access to clean drinking water 24 hours a day. Abundant Ministries Fellowship’s mission is...

Pride Brings Strife

By pride comes nothing but strife, but with the well-advised is wisdom. – Proverbs 13:10 – Perhaps the single greatest cause of strife in the body of Christ is pride. Not only does pride repel people and create division in our relationships, but it gives birth to countless other sins that also create division. Pride moves us to say hurtful things. Pride hardens our hearts to correction. It makes...

Supporting Education in Meru, Kenya

It has been said that in Meru, Kenya, the teacher-to-student ratio is 1:60. With classrooms of this size, it is rare for students to get the attention they need to be successful. While they may attend class faithfully, many students will end up leaving school illiterate or semi-illiterate. The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry sponsored Bible teachers and children’s pastors to visit this school....

All Things in Common

The multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. – Acts 4:32 – In the early church there was a pattern of voluntary generosity among the disciples of Jesus Christ brought about by the Holy Spirit out of love for one...

Supporting a Gospel Crusade in Kampala, Uganda

By God’s grace, the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry assisted with this large-scale gospel crusade in Kampala, Uganda, that touched the lives of countless millions. More than 10,000 people flooded the building and throngs stood outside to hear the Word of God. Over the course of a few days, 35,000 were ministered to on the church property, the evening services were shared with 5 million...

A Prayer for Unity

That they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You. – John 17:21 – The night that He was betrayed, Jesus prayed for His disciples. He also prayed for all those who would become His disciples through their preaching. Of all the things Jesus could have petitioned the Father for in that moment, of all the things on His mind,...

Witnessing Miracles in Zimbabwe

The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry has been honored to partner with Jewish Voice Ministries International to establish medical clinics in impoverished nations. During a medical outreach in Zimbabwe, God stepped in to reveal His miraculous power to heal where medicine could not. Memory, the 44-year-old women pictured here, had not been able to walk or speak for three years. She was brought to...

Be Joined to Some Visible Church

The whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies – Ephesians 4:16 – You by yourselves are not the church, and you must not keep on saying “we” if you are not doing anything in connection with your church. You must consider yourself as a distinct individual, and your first concern in the sight of God must be yourself. The body is made...

Ministering to the Homeless in South Africa

A Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry volunteer in South Africa gives the thumbs up that she’s ready to hit the streets. She and a team of church workers are targeting the homeless, looking for those in need of a kind word, a hug, and a Hope that will never fade away. In this part of the nation are some of the most dangerous cities....

The Unity of True Worship

They sang a new song, saying: “You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals; for You were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation.” – Revelation 5:9 – When we appear before God in glory, we will sing a new song in perfect harmony without disruption. There will be no division....

Supporting Orphans in Matamoros, Mexico

These two precious girls are happy to receive daily love and care at their Christian orphanage in Matamoros, Mexico. It is estimated that there are more than 400,000 children without parents in Mexico, and of that number, 100,000 are homeless. The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry has donated to provide homes for 12 boys and 12 girls in two local “love homes” run by ministry...

Armed with the Same Mind

Since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. – 1 Peter 4:1–2 – An army of ants can accomplish great things together...

Pointing People to Christ Through Drug Rehabilitation

The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry provides funding to a 250,000 sq.ft. Teen Challenge facility in Ohio. While attending this program, clients begin to break addictive habits and learn who God is and why they should entrust their lives to His leading. By the time the program ends, clients are ready to reintegrate within their community, engaging in healthy lifestyle choices and participating in local...

What is the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry?

What is the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry? The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry is a non-denominational, non-profit organization committed to teaching and promoting Christian unity in accordance with God’s Word in order to bring about real change in the body of Christ. Through carefully researching, writing, publishing, and promoting a library of Bible-based resources that quote thousands of passages of Scripture and...

Sharing the Gospel with Bicycles

In a short-term missions trip to Matamoros, Mexico, partners from the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry and United in Christ Ministry Worldwide worked together to bless orphans and impoverished children like this adorable boy. They repaired the children’s damaged bicycles and gifted many new bicycles to those who had none In Matamoros, a bicycle is not just a toy; it’s an important mode of...

Forgiven Much, love Much

To whom little is forgiven, the same loves little. – Luke 7:47 – Jesus was dining at a Pharisee’s house when a sinful woman came and washed His feet with her tears, dried them with her hair, and then anointed them with fragrant oil. The Pharisee was upset. If Jesus were truly a prophet, then surely He would know the woman’s character and forbid her to...

Distributing our Books to Students in Australia

A Christian student in Melbourne, Australia, is presented with a copy of the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry’s powerful resource, “Heaven Is a World of Love.” Now this young woman can read two of the most eye-opening sermons on Heaven and Hell to have ever been shared. Originally presented by Johnathan Edwards, this read is certain to deepen her understanding and fill her with excitement...

One Flock under One Shepherd

Other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd. – John 10:16 – Christians are united to one another because of their common unity with the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ. We are one flock because we belong to Him. Our unity must be founded upon...

Sharing the Gospel in Peru

The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry contributed to a missions trip to Huaycan, Peru. Huaycan is a depressed suburb of the city of Lima. Dirt streets, broken down homes, and an arid landscape is the location this sweet little girl calls home. The missions team we sent worked to rebuild local homes, share the gospel and show God’s love to the men, women and children...

The Master Plan of Reconciliation

God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation. – 2 Corinthians 5:19 – The work of reconciliation is not a small, peripheral aspect of God’s plan of salvation. Reconciliation is central to it. From the moment sin entered the world, God was carrying out His plan to atone for our sin...

Bringing Hope and the Gospel to Woliso, Ethiopia

A young girl smiles as she and her family receive new clothing, medical treatments, and the message of salvation from Christian partners in Woliso, Ethiopia. For many in this photo, this was the first time they had heard of Jesus Christ and of the hope He brings. “Freely you have received; freely give.” Matthew 10:8

Introducing Brothers United

We’re excited to announce Brothers United, a video series where Bob and Markus talk about what it means to live in unity with other Christians.

Medical Missions in Ethiopia Open Doors for the Gospel

In Ethiopia, it is estimated that around 33,000 children die every year from diarrhea caused by unsafe water and poor sanitation. With more than half of the population with no choice but to collect dirty water from unsafe sources, sickness and disease run rampant. This family came out to receive medical assistance at one of the humanitarian outreaches we helped support with our friends at...

Do Not Be a Cause of Stumbling

Let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother’s way. – Romans 14:13 – Passing judgment on other Christians is easy. Supporting their freedom in Christ is hard. Yet this is what the Lord requires. Some Christians feel free to wear jeans or shorts to church services. Others feel free to eat...

Sharing Our Books With Believers in Australia

A member of a church in Ringwood, Australia, was selected to receive a copy of the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry’s Premium Collection book, Essentials of Unity. She expressed her thanks and excitement to learn what the Bible really says about Christian unity and how she can apply this in her relationships with other church members.

Walking in the Daylight

Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy. – Romans 13:13 – When the Lord redeemed us from sin and death, He called us out of the darkness into the light (1 Peter 2:9). God shined on our hearts and gave us spiritual eyes to see His glory (2 Corinthians 4:6)....

Caring for Orphans in Nairobi, Kenya

It’s hard to believe that this adorable little boy was left abandoned with his siblings in the slums of Nairobi, Kenya. But his fate is all too common for children throughout this region. This is why the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry felt led to help establish a Christian orphanage in Nairobi. Now this boy and his siblings, and many other children, are able...

Humility

Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. – Philippians 2:5–7 – Pride is the main source of conflict, which makes humility essential for unity. Only...

Everyday Acts of Love Open the Door for the Gospel

A hot day in Florida is best enjoyed with a cup of fresh lemonade, so Christian workers at a local homeless ministry pass out lemonade to those less fortunate. It is a small act of kindness, but it opens the doors for the receiver to also receive the truth of God’s love for them and the new life available to all who will believe. “Owe nothing...

What Unites Us

You are all one in Christ Jesus – Galatians 3:28 – What is the bond that keeps these united ones together? Among other things, there is the bond of having the same origin. Every person who is a partaker of the life of God has sprung from the same divine Father. The Spirit of God has enlivened all the faithful alike. We discover the same life...

Caring for Orphans in Haiti

These young adults were rescued from the disaster of the earthquake that ravaged Haiti. Without families to care for them, their future was bleak. Now, thanks to our ability to provide assistance to dedicated Jesus followers in Carrefour, these boys will grow to preach the gospel in their homeland and make a national difference! “But you, God, see the trouble of the afflicted; you consider their...

Our Citizenship is Not of this World

Our citizenship is in Heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. – Philippians 3:20 – Citizens from the same country have a passport and an allegiance in common, especially when competing against rival nations. During the Olympic games we witness the enthusiasm and joy of people united under their nation’s flag, representing their homeland in seeking a prize. How much...

Spurgeon on our Union with Christ at Christmas

That they may be one, just as We are one; I in them and You in Me, that they may be perfected in unity, so that the world may know that You sent Me, and You loved them, just as You loved Me. – John 17:22-23 – We have nearly arrived at the great merry-making season of the year. On Christmas day we shall find all...

Volunteering at a Children’s Event in Motonto, Kenya

In this photo, Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry volunteers get ready to kick off an open-air children’s event in Motonto, Kenya. This event brought more than 5,000 children out to hear the gospel message — many for the first time! What joy to see children respond to the invitation to make Jesus Christ the Lord of their lives! We believe Kenya will be saved...

Do Not Be Bound with Unbelievers

Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? … Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? – 2 Corinthians 6:14–15 – The unity of the church depends upon the purity of the church. It cannot be a mix of believers and unbelievers. The true church is composed of those who...

Supporting Bible School in Davao, Philippines

Across Davao City, Philippines, local churches connect in Christian unity to perform a joint community outreach: the Davao Vacation Bible School. The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry was honored to partner with these churches to reach into the impoverished neighborhoods of Davao City and its surroundings with the goal of ministering to every child living there. The love of God shone brightly as unbelieving families...

Love Like Christ

“Love one another; as I have loved you.” – John 13:34 – Christians, you also are to love one another not because of the gain that you get from one another but because of the good you can do for one another. I once heard a minister grumble about the Baptist denomination. He said, “I do not know what the denomi­nation ever did for me.” I...

Blessing Believers in Montonto, Kenya

At a recent event in Motonto, Kenya, pastors and teachers from across the region eagerly requested the resources we provided to further educate them on our Lord’s prayer for the unity of believers. How beautiful it was for our volunteers to witness their hunger! We pray that every leader who received our materials is inspired by Jesus’ prayer to teach the importance of Bible-based Christian unity...

Be Holy

As He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy.” – 1 Peter 1:15–16 – God is holy. He exists without any impurity, entirely set apart by the perfection of His spiritual beauty. We cannot stand in His presence without being made holy. We cannot be united to Him without being made...

Helping with Drug Rehab in Latvia

One of the ministries that we have been honored to support is Teen Challenge in Riga, Latvia. This program helps men to break drug and alcohol addiction and introduces them to Christ. This branch of Teen Challenge was established in 2004 and has graduated more than 400 men since that time! These are just a few of the lives that are being transformed through the efforts of Christians around the...

Caring for Orphans in Haiti

By God’s grace, the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry helped care for 50 orphans in Carrefour, Haiti. Every day these children are being fed, clothed, taught, and loved as the precious and wanted individuals that they truly are. This act of God’s love extended to them will change their lives forever! “The Lord … cares for the orphans and widows” Psalm 146:9

Sharing Without Dividing

Avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife. – 2 Timothy 2:23 – Beliefs about God are personal but not private. Christians are to share what we believe with nonbelievers and to talk about our faith with other believers. Yet talking about religion is notoriously divisive, so how do we share our convictions without causing unnecessary conflict? The Puritan pastor and peacemaker Jeremiah Burroughs...

Caring for the Homeless in Ohio

By God’s grace, the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry was able to bless City Rescue Mission, a Christian homeless shelter in Ohio, with a donation to help lodge and feed 25 to 30 people each day. “Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but...

The Love of Brothers and Sisters in Christ

We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. – 1 John 3:14 NKJV – The assurance of our salvation, to know that we truly belong to Him, is a precious gift from the Lord. Evidence of love for our brothers and sisters in Christ is one of these assurances. A sincere, spiritual love for one another affirms our profession...

Receiving Fresh Drinking Water in Meru, Kenya

The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry is pleased, by God’s grace, to have sponsored the establishment of a well in Meru, Kenya, in partnership with a local ministry. This is another example of Christians uniting to impact the world! As up to 10,000 locals come each day to receive fresh drinking water, free of parasites and illnesses, they will read, “Come all who are...

Christian Unity Glorifies God

The ultimate aim of our unity as Christians is the glory of God. That is, to worship, honor, and exalt Him with one voice. Listen to how Paul closes his letter to the Romans: May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the...

Teaching and Promoting Christian Unity in Ghana

Students at a Christian university in Accra, Ghana, receive funding from the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry. This university is devoted to training students to be critical thinkers, morally sound, entrepreneurial in outlook and able to provide solutions to societal challenges. The students pictured here are being trained for ministry so that they can be released into their nation and reach the lost with the...

Supporting Humanitarian Work after Hurricane Irma

Unaltered Ministries, a ministry helping people to experience fullness of life through the gospel, and the Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry joined together to serve families who had been devastated in Hurricane Irma’s descent upon Florida. Volunteers showed up at the first trailer home not knowing what the conditions would be like. The roof had blown off and the family was blessed to be...

Grown through Trials

Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. – James 1:2-4 NKJV – In his letter to a suffering saint, John Newton conveyed a precious truth of Scripture that few of us come to fully appreciate in this lifetime....

Supporting At-Risk Children with Urban Impact

At-risk students in 6th–12th grade who are vocally talented are invited to join the Urban Impact Choir, where they will learn not only to develop their vocal talent but who God is and why they should use their voices to glorify the Lord. This is a photo of the kids during one of their many Bible studies. The Be United in Christ Outreach Ministry is...