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Building Each Other Up into Unity (PHILIPPIANS 4:1-7)

REFLECTION

The theme “Build each other up into unity” is a clarion call for Christians to move beyond mere coexistence and strive for a deep, functional harmony. To be “of one mind” does not mean we lose our individuality or agree on every trivial preference; rather, it means aligning our hearts and purposes with the mind of Christ. The key lesson here is profound: Even the most dedicated servants of God can experience conflict, but for the sake of the Gospel, we must prioritise reconciliation and peace over our personal grievances.

In the opening of Philippians 4, the Apostle Paul addresses a specific conflict between two prominent women, Euodia and Syntyche. He writes, “I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord” (Philippians 4:2). These were not casual observers; Paul notes that “they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel” (Philippians 4:3). This reveals a sobering truth: being “in the book of life” and being a hard worker for the church does not make one immune to interpersonal friction. When we allow disagreements to fester, we do more than just hurt our feelings; we stall the progress of the Gospel and fracture the unity that Christ prayed for.

To build each other up, we must move from “being right” to “being reconciled.” This requires a mediator—a role Paul assigns to the church community when he asks his “true companion” to “help these women” (Philippians 4:3). In a modern church setting, this might look like a vestry meeting where members choose to listen more than they speak, or a project team that decides to compromise on a method to preserve the mission. We are reminded of the wisdom Joseph gave his brothers in Genesis 45:24: “Don’t quarrel on the way!” We are all on the same journey toward the same Kingdom; why waste energy fighting those walking beside us?

Furthermore, Paul links this unity to our internal spiritual state. He encourages us to “Rejoice in the Lord always” (Philippians 4:4) and to let our “gentleness be evident to all” (Philippians 4:5). It is difficult to remain in a bitter dispute when we are focused on the joy of the Lord. When we replace anxiety and contention with prayer and thanksgiving, “the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7). This peace is the “glue” that holds the church together.+2

Summary and Call to Action

In summary, we have discovered that even the most faithful disciples can fall into the trap of division. However, we are called to a higher standard. We must recognise that our unity is our strongest testimony to the world. To build each other up is to actively seek the “same mind”—the mind of Christ—which values the brother or sister more than the argument.

Call to Action: This week, identify one relationship within your church or community where “the mind of Christ” has been replaced by “the mind of conflict.” Reach out. Initiate a conversation of peace. If you are a leader, be an agent of reconciliation rather than a source of contention. Choose to build a bridge rather than a wall, ensuring that your gentleness is evident to everyone you meet.

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Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of fellowship and the bond of the Spirit. Forgive us for the times we have allowed our pride or opinions to create divisions within Your Church. We pray specifically for those currently in conflict; grant them the humility of Euodia and Syntyche to seek reconciliation. Help us to be of one mind in the Lord, guarding our hearts with Your peace and building one another up in love. May our unity be a light that draws others to You. In the name of Jesus Christ, our Mediator and Peace, Amen.