Kingdom First: Finding Unity in a Divided World

This week in our Unity series, we discussed what it really means to live as citizens of God’s kingdom—together. Guest speaker Mark guided us through Matthew’s gospel, highlighting Jesus’ teaching on the “kingdom of heaven” and why our primary allegiance is to Christ, not ourselves or our smaller circles. Mark shared stories from his own ministry and explored how, even in moments of conflict or difference, the call of Jesus is to gather and unify, not to scatter. We considered how phrases like “kingdom” and “unity” connect to our modern lives, where individualism often wins out over togetherness. Mark challenged us to seek unity as an identifying mark of following King Jesus, looking for what we share in Christ rather than what separates us. No matter our background or differences, being part of God’s global family shapes the way we love, serve, and connect. Reflect this week on how you can be a “gatherer”—bringing others in and letting kingdom unity shape your everyday life.Questions:1.  In what way is thinking of Jesus as KING different than how you normally picture Him?2.  What about the idea of ONE KINGDOM is helpful in our pursuit of unity?3.  What does it look like to be a gatherer instead of a scatterer?4.  When are you most tempted (like the disciples in Mark9) to disapprove of someone that Jesus approves?5.  What would it look like for you to actively embrace citizens of the KINGDOM in distant places?6.  What other steps are you encouraged to take as a result of this series?