In a culture that's obsessed with personal branding and individual recognition, the Bible delivers an unconventional message.

It's one that celebrates our differences while pursuing a common purpose.

And today, on Insight for Living, Chuck Swindall dismantles the myth that unity means uniformity,

that we must all think, act, and believe identically.

Instead, God intentionally designed his church with distinct talents, viewpoints, and personalities.

The challenge?

Blending our differences for God's glory rather than our

own prominence. Teaching from Romans chapter 15, Chuck titled today's message with a question,

We are one, or are we?

It's the goal of every pastor worth his salt to help keep the unity of the congregation.

And it's the same for all who are members of that church.

Speaking of that, and I turn now to God's people, verse one,

we who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of those who are weak, the weaknesses of those without strength, and not just please ourselves.

Each of us is to please his neighbor for his good and for his edification.

Now, this needs a disclaimer.

Because if you take just verse two, you'll spend your entire life pleasing people.

And you and I know that there's more of the Christian life than that.

Because there are some people who have no business being pleased.

There are some people who are doing wrong. And they want your approval. And you will find as a person

that learns to stand on his own two feet, there will be people you will have to say no to.

And you won't be popular. Not only with them, but with their friends and their spouse and others.

But nevertheless, you must answer to Christ, not them.

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