The true gospel produces a church in which unity exists with remarkable diversity. In this congregation do we largely look alike, dress alike, think alike, speak alike, spend alike, and vote alike? Paul teaches that the gospel will produce congregations in which unity exists with amazing diversity. Timothy was circumcised (Acts 16:3) because some Jews were aware that Timothy’s father was a Greek; in Galatians, however, Paul heatedly and repeatedly insists that circumcision is not required of Titus, also a Greek, nor of any Gentiles who follow Christ. Paul models radical freedom. Can we follow his lead?

Dr. Daniel Chetti, American Baptist Church/USA missionary to Beirut, tells of Muslims who have come to love Jesus Christ. The All-Saints International Congregation in Beirut, Lebanon, welcomes such to the Communion table whether or not they have been baptized, since baptism for a Muslim can lead to disinheritance, being shunned by family, or even death. Shall the table be open? The community prayed for a word from God and the word came: “This is My table. It is not yours; it does not belong to any denomination’s doctrine; it is Mine.” The true gospel produces a church in which unity exists with remarkable diversity.

2. The true gospel produces a church of miraculous unity. The Amish community in Nickel Mines, Pennsylvania, is legendary for its response to the horrific slaughter of five young girls and severe wounding of five more. The community’s actions reflect with brilliant clarity who and whose they are as dedicated followers of Jesus Christ. In following their example, shall we first give up our cars, disconnect electricity, and make our clothes plain? Must one adopt a set of behaviors in order to stay within the faith? “No!” cries Paul. Instead, bear fruit! “If you sow to your own flesh, you will reap corruption from the flesh; but if you sow to the Spirit, you will reap eternal life from the Spirit” (v. 8).

What did the Amish community of Nickel Mines sow to the Spirit? They sowed radical forgiveness. They took seriously the work of Jesus Christ on humanity’s behalf, forgiving the shooter, reaching out to his family with food that same day, and later with a share of the cash that poured in from Americans who sorrowed with them. They were and are a light to the church. “So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up” (v. 9). The true gospel produces a church of miraculous unity.

So do not be bewitched.

Do not listen to those who would gild the gospel.

Do know Christ, and the power of the resurrection.

“For neither circumcision nor uncircumcision is anything; but a new creation is everything! As for those who will follow this rule—peace be upon them” (vv. 15–16).