United

No, I am not referring to an imminently merging airline. I am referencing that concept of being closely together as a family or even as a body.

Unity is crucial for a church to move forward in fulfilling the mission and task of being a local body. We are not to be splintered in our mindset. The NT clearly points out the attitude or mindset that any and every local church is to genuinely own and manifest.

Philippians 1:27

Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

Philippians 2:1-2

Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.

As our local church continues to grow and move forward with the task of making disciples for His honor and glory, it is imperative to the outcome, that we proceed in a Biblical manner. That Biblical model is to move forward in unity. The above verses speak of a united spirit and of having one mind. What does this look like? Well, first of all, I don’t believe it means that we all must have exactly the same ideas and opinions. In fact, there is tremendous benefit in having varying views. At NWBC, differing ideas are welcomed! No one should ever feel afraid or ashamed to propose a new thought or a different viewpoint. As we put forth differing ideas, what we do insist on, is that all ideas MUST be supported by the Scriptures. In essence, differing views and fresh perspectives are very welcome, but unbiblical or Biblically erroneous ones are not. That can be a hard balance to strike. We are striving as a church, to foster a harmonious mindset of Biblical accuracy yet within that framework, leaving the door wide open for new ideas and thoughts.

Much like Paul stated in Philippians 1:27, I am personally encouraged that I see this balance amongst NWBC. Every so often, I speak with fellow pastors and colleagues that report on the divisive nature of their business meetings, their Bible studies, etc… I am so proud of God’s Word working in us, as a church family, to save us from those fights, tensions, hidden agendas, and the like. From the deepest part of this pastor’s heart, I want to say a sincere and hearty thank you for conducting yourselves in a worth manner. Indeed, we are and want to continue to be united!