People will not believe we represent Jesus if they do not believe we love each other!

“If therefore God gave them the same gift as He gave us when we believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could withstand God?” When they heard these things they became silent; and they glorified God, saying, “Then God has also granted to the Gentiles repentance to life.” Acts 11:17-18 NKJV
 
Peter witnessed to Cornelius and his family. God saved them. This was the first time the Holy Spirit was poured out on gentiles. They were the first non-Jews in the Body of Christ.
 
When the Jewish believers heard what happened they argued with Peter saying, “You went into uncircumcised men and ate with them!” Peter explained his vision and the events that followed. They glorified God and received the new believers into the household of God.
 
All sin is primarily against God. And yet it is people who suffer the effects of it. The great unpardonable sin is grieving the Holy Spirit. Despising other people is also a great sin.
 
The Jewish people looked down on other races of people. They would not associate with gentiles. It was considered an uncivilized act to eat with them.
 
Bigotry and racial arrogance were no longer acceptable after Cornelius was saved. Jews Romans, Greeks and eventually people all over the world became brothers and sisters in Christ. Many were persecuted. Some were killed. All were loved by God!
 
Unity of Spirit and diversity of races, heritage and cultures enriched and blessed the Body of Christ. These things gave glory to God!
 
Jesus sent His followers into all the world to make disciples. They went forth in unity. They gave their hearts to God and each other. They were recognized as disciples of Jesus because they loved one another!
 
We were all created in the image and likeness of our Heavenly Father. Jesus saved us so that we could be yoked together in His eternal family!
 
When we divide ourselves along racial, ethnic, or cultural lines we rob ourselves of the richness of God’s diversity. When we allow economics to divide us we miss out on God’s blessing. People will not believe we represent Christ if they do not believe we love each other!
 
Jesus is sending us out to make disciples today. We must obey that command in unity with other believers. It is not important for us to look alike or even act alike. It is important for us to be Christ like!
 
Jesus temporarily gave up His right to rule and reign when He walked the earth. He chose to serve His brothers and sisters in love.
 
Will you choose to serve your brothers and sisters in love?
 
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