In Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

Galatians 3:26-28 (ESV)

Although we are not all the same, we are one in Christ.

A church community at its best is when everyone transcends their differences and works together as a people of God. We don't need to aspire towards any lofty goals or unrealistic standards. We can reflect and manifest unity and oneness since the finished work of Christ has already removed all boundaries and separations. It is now entirely up to us to obey and practice this truth with one another.

Since God loves us perfectly without our striving for it, His indwelling Spirit empowers us to love others with the same love in return. Because Christ has united us as one family, one new humanity, and one body in Him, He has given us the capacity to face and conquer every obstacle that can threaten the health or well-being of our church family. If they continue to live in grace and truth, every Christ-filled Christian has the capacity to spontaneously and supernaturally show forgiveness, reconciliation, and peace.

Depending on how the gospel is proclaimed or portrayed, a church can be both the best and worst place to be. The absence of a warm and welcoming community is an obvious indication that not everyone who heard the gospel is obeying it. This is the reason the Apostle Paul urged the Galatians to remain true to who they are now in Christ and not let their race, gender, or socioeconomic status stand in the way of building a strong and thriving community.

Don't give up on the church despite all of its apparent flaws, failures and shortcomings. Pray and contribute towards its growth, health and vitality. Don't sit on the sidelines. Be part of the solution. Listen to Jesus and do what He says.