Five-Day Bible Reading Plan and Devotional
Sermon Audio
Why Denominations? | You Asked For It Week 1
Day 1: God's Unifying Love
Reading: John 17:20-23
Devotional: Despite the differences that exist between Christian denominations, we are all united by God's powerful, unifying love. Jesus prayed that all believers would be one, just as He and the Father are one. When we focus on loving God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, and loving our neighbors as ourselves, we find common ground that transcends theological distinctions. Reflect on how you can embody Christ's love today in your interactions with other believers. Ask God to break down any walls of division and unite His church in love.
Day 2: Encountering Jesus
Reading: Jeremiah 29:11-14
Devotional: In the midst of theological debates and denominational differences, our greatest need is a personal encounter with Jesus. When we seek Him with all our heart, we will find Him. God's plans for us are always good, to give us hope and a future. As you read Scripture today, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal Jesus to you in a fresh way. Surrender your own agendas and opinions, and simply enjoy His presence. Remember that He is the source of all truth, and He will guide you into deeper relationship with Him.
Day 3: Faith in God's Mysteries
Reading: 1 Corinthians 13:8-12
Devotional: There are many aspects of God and His ways that are a mystery to us in this life. We see dimly now, but one day we will see Him face to face and understand fully. Rather than getting caught up in trying to figure everything out, we can rest in childlike faith, trusting that God is good and He holds all things together. What questions do you have for God today? Offer them to Him in prayer, while thanking Him that even when you don't understand, you can have confidence in His loving character. His ways are higher than ours.
Day 4: Hope of Heaven
Reading: Revelation 7:9-12
Devotional: One day, believers from every tribe, tongue and nation will gather before God's throne in perfect unity, fulfilling Jesus' prayer in John 17. The old order of things will pass away, along with denominational divisions, as we join together in eternal worship of the Lamb. This is the glorious hope we look forward to! As you go about your day, let this hope fill your heart with joy and shape the way you see other believers. Practice the unity of heaven here on earth by extending love, grace and fellowship to all of God's children.
Day 5: Loving Others Despite Differences
Reading: Romans 14:1-13
Devotional: In non-essential matters of theology and practice, God gives us freedom to hold different views according to our conscience. Rather than judging or looking down on those who differ from us, we are called to love and accept one another. We will all stand before God's judgment seat and give an account for ourselves. Knowing this, let us be careful not to cause others to stumble, but to pursue peace and mutual edification. Is there someone you need to reconcile with or extend grace to today? Take a step of humble love and trust God to work in both of your hearts.
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