08/31/2025 Midtown Church Sacramento
“Finding Unity When There Are Differences”
Dr. Efrem Smith
Biblical Foundation:
- The Church in Rome was a multiethnic body of Jewish and Gentile believers.
- They faced ethnic, cultural, political, and religious differences that often created division.
- Paul calls the church to live out Spirit-empowered love that values others above self and seeks unity through Christ.
Big Question:
How Do We Live In Unity When We Have So Many Differences?
Unity is found in the attitude and identity of Christ, not in ignoring differences.
Romans 15:1–9
2. From Self-Righteous Judgment to Self-Sacrificing Joy
The church must not divide over non-essential issues (like food or drink).
Essentials vs. non-essentials: focus on what truly matters in the Gospel.
Romans 14:13–21
3. From Cultural Isolation to Cross-Cultural Intentionality
The church is called to a movement of repentance, reconciliation, and disciple-making across cultural lines.
Romans 15:14–19
Final Thought: From Spiritual Ignorance to Spiritual Awareness
Christ-centered unity will ultimately defeat division and the schemes of the enemy.
Romans 16:17–20