A Call to Embrace God’s Purpose for the Church and Israel
Introduction
In an age where conformity is often mistaken for unity, the true essence of togetherness lies in diversity. The biblical narrative offers profound insights into how God’s vision for humanity is rooted in the beauty of diversity, not in uniformity. This truth applies not only to the Church but also to Israel, as both are distinct yet critical parts of God’s redemptive plan. The Apostle Paul, with wisdom and clarity, outlined these divine purposes and issued a caution against arrogance and misunderstanding, urging believers to foster humility and embrace the Spirit of Truth.
The Distinct Purpose for the Church and Israel
The Church and Israel represent two facets of God’s intricate design for restoration. Paul reinforces this distinction in his epistle to the Romans, where he warns Gentile believers against boasting over the natural branches, referring to Israel:
“Do not be arrogant toward the branches… Do not be conceited, but fear; for if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will He spare you” (Romans 11:18, 20-21).
This caution serves as a reminder that neither the Church nor Israel has fully embodied what God created them to be. The Church, as a new creation, has yet to demonstrate on earth the depth of transformation and unity that God intended. Similarly, Israel has not yet fulfilled her covenantal role to serve as a light to the nations. These distinct roles are not contradictory but complementary, revealing the wisdom of a God who values diversity in His divine plan.
Breaking Strongholds of Misconception
Strongholds, as the Apostle Paul describes, are lies that have taken root in people’s minds, growing stronger as more individuals subscribe to them. Among the most pervasive of these strongholds is the notion that unity requires conformity. Yet, God’s design for unity is not the eradication of differences but the harmonization of them under His sovereign purpose.
The Church has been entrusted with the Spirit of Truth to dismantle these strongholds. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 10:4-5:
“For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God…”
These divinely powerful weapons—truth, grace, love, and humility—are given to the Church for the explicit purpose of tearing down misconceptions and false judgments. However, the Church must rise to this calling by rejecting the divisive narratives perpetuated by the enemy, who thrives on sowing discord through projected images and caricatures of others.
Overcoming Division Through the Spirit
Satan’s strategy of division is rooted in encouraging judgment based on fleshly appearances or exaggerated stereotypes. By highlighting the most extreme or flawed elements of a group, he fosters misunderstanding and hostility. This tactic is evident not only in societal conflicts but also in the historical divisions between the Church and Israel, and even within the Church itself.
To counteract this, believers must learn to discern by the Spirit rather than by the flesh. As Paul urges in 2 Corinthians 5:16:
“Therefore, from now on we recognize no one according to the flesh…”
Judging according to the Spirit means seeing others as God sees them—valuing their unique contributions to His plan and recognizing the inherent dignity He has bestowed upon all. This perspective paves the way for a unity that celebrates diversity rather than stifling it.
The Role of the Church in Reconciliation
The Church, empowered by the Spirit, has a unique role in fostering reconciliation and demonstrating what true unity looks like. This requires humility, grace, and a commitment to God’s truth. It also demands that the Church confront its own shortcomings and divisions, acknowledging where it has fallen short of God’s vision for a new creation.
Unity within the Church does not mean erasing denominational distinctions or cultural differences. Instead, it involves aligning these differences under the lordship of Christ, who prayed for His followers to be one as He and the Father are one (John 17:21). Such unity is a testimony to the world of God’s transformative power and love.
A Reflection on Diversity as Strength
Diversity is not a barrier to unity but a reflection of God’s multifaceted nature. Just as a symphony is enriched by the blend of different instruments, so too is the body of Christ strengthened by the diversity of its members. Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 12:12-14:
“For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ… For the body does not consist of one member but of many.”
This principle extends beyond the Church to God’s broader plan for humanity, including His covenantal relationship with Israel. The unity He desires is one that embraces the distinct roles and identities He has ordained, weaving them together into a tapestry that reflects His glory.
Conclusion
True unity is not found in conformity but in the harmonious blending of diversity under God’s sovereign purpose. The Church and Israel, distinct yet interconnected, serve as a testament to this truth. As believers, we are called to reject the enemy’s divisive tactics and embrace the Spirit of Truth, fostering unity that celebrates rather than suppresses differences.
In doing so, we become instruments of reconciliation, tearing down strongholds of falsehood and demonstrating to the world the power of God’s love. May we heed Paul’s warnings and walk in humility, recognizing that our calling is not to judge or boast but to build up and unify. Only then can we fulfill the purpose for which we were created, reflecting the beauty of God’s kingdom in all its glorious diversity.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 