The following article is based on the  sermon Unity by Pastor Marlo Johnson. It also contains a link to the original audio sermon. Most references(audio) mentioned can be found by reading the book of John, Chapters 14 to 17.

Introduction

   Start reading from John 14 and you will find yourself situated at a critical time in the lives of the disciples. Consider the following, three years of mentoring had just come to a close and things were moving in a new direction.  Jesus had challenged them to forsake all to become His disciples, a powerful relationship between them had developed and something was about to change, their futures about to take a turn.

With this foreknowledge, Jesus encouraged them saying "DO NOT let your hearts be troubled, trust in God, trust also in me.". The disciples would need His encouragement and direction as future attacks would be encountered from the political and religious communities of the time.

Notice Jesus places the responsibilty on them not to be troubled. Two choices were available: to trust or not to trust; they chose to put their trust in Him, as do we.

Had the disciples placed their focus on the next few years they might have been very troubled indeed as they would experience periods that were difficult and trying; some were crucified and some were killed by the sword. Many died under these trials, but it was ultimately counted as a positive because the gospel was consequently spread. For example, before being crucified in Greece Andrew preached the gospel. While in a Patmos prison, John was inspired by Spirit of God to write the Book of Revelations. The disciples made the right decisions. We too are asked to make the right choice. Trust in God.

We place such a priority on what happens in this visible world; Jesus places it squarely on eternity. Many Christians live their lives with little or no regard for eternity...as if it will take care of itself when we get there. But Jesus encouraged them and us to walk in relationship with Him. John 15, emphasisizes walking in agape love. Jesus says, "if you love me you will obey me.". The result of living in love and obedience is joy.

Jesus is aware that His absence is going to cause difficulties for His disciples. He is also aware that they have come to Him over and over again for help. As an apprentice learns through experience and training, the disciples too were mentored by Jesus; it would be easier for them when He was there to help. The disciples feared being left alone and deserted. Jesus knowing what they were thinking and feeling talks about how to handle the the situation when he leaves. He tells about sending a helper, the Holy Spirit. Jesus reveals that the Holy Spirit will confirm what He has talked about during the past three years. The Spirit will reveal or testify to the spoken truth of Jesus. Some believed this truth is just for the disciples but, it is for everyone. Because the disciples boldly spoke the truth they encourntered opposition. They would be hated for what they were sharing, misunderstood, and thrown out of communities; in fact communities would cheer those who were against them. Jesus countered all that, encouraging them to testify . He says, 'all this I have told you so you will not go astray'.

The Holy Spirit

In chapter 15, they have left the upper room and have now begun their journey. Jesus tells them that they must also testify. He is talking to us, not just the disciples. The Holy Spirit will testify to us about Jesus...about the cross...about what he has done for us.

Jesus was entrusting the 12 disciples with the truth knowing that the Holy Spirit would help them. They could not just live that truth for themselves but they would have to share it. He knew that sharing that truth would mean that 9 of them would die a premature death and the rest would be hated for what they were sharing. They would be misunderstood and thrown out of communities. In Chapter 16 He goes on to say that I have told you these things so you will not go astray. He tells them how they will be treated (thrown out of synagogues, killed...) by those who have not known the father or me.

This word is historical as well as futuristic. with a warning about what is coming, to not be troubled when it happens; the Holy Spirit will be our helper and is not limited as a human would be. Time and space are not  problems for the Spirit. There are examples of the work of the Holy Spirit in the audio portion of the sermon. These stories tell of  the unlimited ability and power of the Holy Spirit, the same spirit who resides in us. 

This sermon discusses Unity and the work of the Holy Spirit.  Family  is the example used which discusses the many struggles and difficulties that exist in relationships. This is an good example of the battle being fought, with the Holy Spirit leading and guiding the way. The ultimate plan of God will happen, with a unified church. It would have been easier if the plan were done individually, but God says no-- it must be done in the body. With all the differences that exist in the human race, including the church, only love can make it(unity) happen; it just does not occur in a vacuum, nor by compulsion. Only working together can accomplish anything.

The hardest thing to do is function in unity...but that is in the heart of God.

  Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done. On earth as it is in Heaven.