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Title: "One Love, One Family: The Universal Message of the Bible"
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 4:6 – “One God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”
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Introduction:
Good morning, beloved. Today, we gather to reflect on one of the most profound truths in scripture: God’s love is infinite, inclusive, and universal. Across time, humanity has sought to divide itself—by nation, creed, or status. But the Bible calls us back to unity, reminding us that we are all children of the same Creator.
This morning, let us explore the Universalist message of the Bible: that God’s grace, mercy, and love extend to all people, and through this truth, we are called to love one another as one family.
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1. God’s Universal Love
Scripture: John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
The Bible tells us that God’s love encompasses the entire world—not just a chosen few, not just one nation, but everyone. This verse is a cornerstone of our faith because it reveals God’s intention: to save, not condemn, humanity.
God’s love is not bound by our divisions.
It does not discriminate by race, religion, or background.
As Universalists, we believe this love is not limited to those who follow a specific path but is available to all. Just as the sun shines on the righteous and unrighteous alike (Matthew 5:45), so too does God’s grace.
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2. Unity in God’s Family
Scripture: Galatians 3:28 – “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
Paul’s words to the Galatians remind us that in God’s eyes, we are one. The labels and barriers we create—based on nationality, social status, or gender—are human constructs.
In Christ, these divisions dissolve.
We are all part of the same spiritual family, equal in worth and dignity.
This is the heart of the Universalist message: every soul matters. Each person, regardless of their journey, belongs in God’s love.
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3. God’s Plan for Universal Reconciliation
Scripture: Colossians 1:20 – “Through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, by making peace through His blood, shed on the cross.”
Reconciliation is not limited to a select few. God’s plan is to bring all things back into harmony with Him. The cross is a symbol of this divine reconciliation—an open invitation to all creation.
This includes people we might struggle to love or understand.
God’s love reaches even the farthest corners of the earth and the hardest hearts.
As followers of Christ, we are called to participate in this work of reconciliation, extending love and peace to everyone we encounter.
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4. The Call to Love Universally
Scripture: Matthew 22:39 – “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Jesus’ command to love our neighbor is universal in scope. When asked, “Who is my neighbor?” Jesus told the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37), showing that our neighbor is anyone in need, regardless of their background.
To love universally is to reflect God’s love in action.
It means embracing people of all walks of life with compassion and grace.
This love is not always easy. It challenges us to move beyond fear, prejudice, and judgment. Yet, it is through this love that we embody the kingdom of God.
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5. Hope for a Unified Future
Scripture: Revelation 7:9 – “After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people, and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.”
The Bible gives us a vision of heaven where all humanity stands together, united in worship. This image reminds us that diversity is not erased in God’s kingdom but celebrated.
It is a reminder that God’s plan is for unity, not division.
As Universalists, we work toward this vision, fostering harmony and understanding in our world.
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Conclusion:
The Universalist message of the Bible is clear: God’s love is for all, and we are called to reflect that love in our lives. In a world that often seeks to divide, let us stand as beacons of unity and compassion.
May we embody the words of Ephesians 4:6, recognizing that there is “one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”
Let us leave this place today with hearts open to all, ready to love and serve as Christ did.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your boundless love that knows no limits. Help us to see Your image in everyone we meet and to extend Your grace to all. Unite us in Your Spirit, that we may be one family under You. Amen.
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