Pentecost and Unity of God’s People

We celebrate Pentecost Sunday amid global upheaval: wars, economic instability, and local conflicts. Was there ever a time of perfect unity, without language barriers or strife?

Briefly, yes. After the flood, God commanded Noah’s descendants to “be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth” (Gen 9:1, 7). They obeyed until they settled in Sinar, deciding to build a tower and make a name for themselves, halting God’s plan to fill the earth. In response, God confused their language at Babel, scattering humanity and creating diverse nations (Gen 11).

God was not threatened by their unity, but opposed their self-seeking refusal to spread out as commanded. In God’s design, true unity serves His purpose, not human ambition.

Centuries later, at Pentecost, people from every nation gathered in Jerusalem. Amid linguistic confusion, the Holy Spirit enabled the apostles to speak in many tongues. Peter’s message convicted thousands, who were baptized and formed the first church (Acts 2). Here, Christ’s sacrifice brought true unity: reconciling humanity with God and with each other, transcending language and culture.

“Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all.” (Col 3:11)

Pentecost is often seen as the “reversal of Babel.” Yet, after this moment of unity, believers were scattered again, this time to spread God’s kingdom worldwide (Acts 8:1,4). Jesus had foretold this mission: “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

Today, we continue that mission, sharing the gospel across cultures and languages, united in Christ’s love and forgiveness. God’s ultimate purpose is to unite all things under Christ, as part of His cosmic plan (Eph 1:7-10).

Let’s celebrate the unity purchased by Christ, enjoy the Spirit’s bond of peace (Eph 4:3), and humbly play our part in God’s plan to unite all things under Christ.

Practical Steps to Promote Unity

1. Practice Humility and Gentleness
   Approach others with humility, being willing to listen and learn, and respond to disagreements with gentleness rather than harshness.
2. Encourage and Build Up Others
   Make a habit of offering encouragement—whether through a kind word, a note, or a prayer—to those around you, especially those who may feel left out or discouraged.
3. Avoid Gossip and Assumptions
   Refuse to participate in gossip or negative talk. If you have a concern or question about someone, go directly to them rather than making assumptions or spreading rumors.
4. Reach Out to Someone New or Different
   Intentionally connect with someone in the congregation you don’t know well or who is different from you. Start a conversation, invite them for coffee, or simply sit with them during a service.
5. Pray for Unity and Reconciliation
   Regularly pray for unity within the church and for reconciliation where there is conflict. Ask God to help you see others as He does and to give you the courage to be a peacemaker. These small, personal actions can have a significant impact as we build a unified, Christ-centered community in the Hampton Roads Church.

“May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Rom 15:5-6)