By: Juliet Constantine

"What then? Are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin;

As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:

There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.

They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one." (Romans 3:9-12)

Ethnic prejudice was a concern for the early church. It was widely known that Jews, God’s ‘model’ for the world, thought themselves better than other nations. This was a problem that hindered the gospel. Paul, himself a Jew and chosen of God to speak for the Gentiles had to address the matter. It is one thing to be wrestling against forces on the outside, but infightings will weaken any company, any economy, and any family. The unity of the early church was of paramount importance for the spreading of the gospel. Jews had to be made aware that they were not better as all have sinned. Ethnic prejudice or prejudicial practices do not belong in God’s church, then or now.

Today, God’s church still struggles with prejudicial practices! In some churches ethnic prejudice is still alive and well. In this 21st Century, there is still a church for black people and a church for white people within the same denomination! This ought not to be so! We are to be one! What is even worse is that within most, if not all, congregations, those with larger offerings seem to be treated differently than those giving the widow’s mite. Really now, why are we like this? These are worldly practices which do not belong in the Church of God! In God’s eyes, the color of the skin or the size of the offering does not matter. Irrespective of our calling or station in life, God calls us to seek after Him and be one!

There is a great work to be done to make disciples for Jesus Christ. Love and unity among brethren is a critical ingredient to impress our world that Christ is all inclusive. Malice keeping and resentment have no place in God’s work! We are family. We are to be one in purpose, just like the Trinity.

So, where do I come in? What’s my role in this family? I can brighten the corner where I stand. I can be like a pebble dropped in the water. The combined action of all God’s children, in brightening their corners or be like pebbles dropped in water, will attract the lost and dying to the Christ we love. The ripple effect will spread wide and far. Let’s do our part to create, maintain and spread the unity among ourselves so that we can be empowered to finish the work and go home! I am for unity. Are you?

Most righteous Father, you’ve spoke again and we thank you for the reminder that we ought to be one – to be united to finish Your work. Please help us to do all we can to build and not tear down your work. May we use our talents, time and means to support your cause unselfishly as we prepare ourselves and others to meet You in peace. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Copyrighted by Juliet Constantine 2014 (for “Alone With God – Finding Jesus In The Scriptures” Daily Devotional)