We Are Indeed Greater Together in Unity

by John Tilton on November 08, 2021

Scripture

“I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.” (1 Corinthians 1:10)

Observation

“Paul appeals that they seek unity to prevent division amongst themselves and therefore be united in mind and thought, as this was a time where the “old guard” of the Israelites and traditional thoughts battled with the good news of Jesus Christ.

Application

There is always a desire to hope for and seek unity. However, Paul makes it clear that we need to be intentional in seeking unity, by making an effort to find common ground with others and especially those that I am related to, work with and have common cause with. More than ever before, we see in our community and nation through the pandemic that division and separation is more prevalent than ever. Division is the devil’s way and attempt to bring conflict and broken relationships. More than ever, we are called to seek unity through our words and actions and communicate through the Holy Spirit leading and guiding us. It’s then that hearts, minds, and actions will be united.

Prayer

Dear Lord, may I remember and make a concerted effort to seek unity with those that I relate and commune with. May I also seek to create a spirit and environment of unity.

About the Author

John Tilton

Senior Pastor John Tilton has served at New Hope Oahu since it’s launch in 1995, and has been on staff in administration and as executive pastor for the past 14 years. The values and heart behind New Hope run deeply through Pastor John’s veins as he has trained, learned, and was mentored closely by Pastor Wayne.

A graduate of Kamehameha Schools Kapālama and the University of Hawaii at Mānoa, Pastor John holds his Masters in Formational Leadership from Lancaster Bible College & Capital Seminary. He has served in various leadership, mentorship, and advisory roles in ministry and in the marketplace. He currently serves as Vice President of New Hope International and is on the Board of Directors of both Pacific Rim Christian University and New Hope Christian College.

Pastor John is married to his amazing wife Lanu, is father to his son Ikaika, daughter Malie, son-in-law Noni, is Papa to his grandchildren Justice, Johanna, and Jordynn, all of whom serve in ministry as a family together at New Hope Oahu.

Pastor John’s heart is to love and shepherd the people of New Hope Oahu––both here on Oahu and globally across the world. He will seek to continue to develop leaders, enable people here to dream with vision and purpose for God’s unique call on their lives, and, most importantly, to seek God as He faithfully guides our church so that we can fully become the church, and the people, He has created and called us to be.