Extra Scripture Readings (for personal and small group use)

John 17:1-16 – Jesus certainly prayed that his followers would be unified. What other specific things did He request for us?

James 4:1-17 – What is the real cause of arguments? Do you believe this when you argue?

Ephesians 4:1-32 – From this passage, make a list of practical ways to increase your unity with the people around you.

Acts 15:1-35 – What can you learn about handling disputes from this example?

1 Corinthians 1:18-31 – why did Paul say that all the power of God is summed up in the Gospel?

Preparation for Group1. Pastor Todd described Corinth’s unique characteristics that made it such and influential city. Take some time to think about the unique characteristics of the High Desert. What do you think God could do in this area that could have worldwide effects?

2. Read 1 Corinthians 1:1-17 again and notice all the uses of call, called, calling, etc. List the many different things God has called us to be or to do.

3. What can you do to promote more unity in your family, in your small group, in the church as a whole? What situations do you see that need some reconciliation?

4. Is your group focused on the common purpose of helping each other reach your oikos? What can you do to be more focused?

Sin City - Unity

Week 1 – I Corinthians 1:1-17

UnityMessage by Pastor Todd ArnettPart 1 of 8 :: January 8-9, 2011

This series is about how a church can _______________ a city.

When it comes to worldchange, if you’re divided, then you’re ________.

INTRO TO THE CITY _____________

1 Corinthians 1:1-3

The word “______________________” was synonymous with “licentiousness.”

So what you have is a city that was strategically located like ____________, wealthy like ____________, influential like _____________ and immoral like ________________ – all rolled into one!

BASIS FOR THEIR

UNITY____________

“. . . to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be holy . . .”

Holiness is more than being “good” – it’s about being good on ______________, dedicated to God’s cause and calling. 1 Corinthians 1:4-9

Look at how their relationship to Jesus had utterly changed everything:

- Their ________________ – they are now “in Christ Jesus,” fully identified with him

- Their _________________ – they didn’t lack any gifts needed to accomplish Jesus’ purpose in their city

- Their ______________ – Jesus would keep them strong until they reached the finish line of the mission He’s laid out for them

- Their _____________ – they would be considered blameless when they stood before the Father identified with the Son

- Their ___________ ________ – God had called them into a unique shared relationship with both His Son and with each other – they now had “fellowship”

INTRO TO THEIR

ISSUES________________

1 Corinthians 1:10-12, John 17:20-23

The purpose for our unity is that it’s a ______________ to an unbelieving world that Jesus has delivered us from our petty, divisive tendencies. Luke 11:17

“Paul does not attack the teaching of any of the parties, but the fact that there were parties . . . The whole thing was wrong.”

-Leon Morris

1 Corinthians 1:13-17

If we’re divided, we’re done, but if we walk united, we can _____________ our __________.