Genesis 11:1-9
At Babel, mankind sought unity and strength
apart from and against God. God rejected our efforts and scattered us. But at
Pentecost He undid the Babel captivity we were in, uniting languages again. He began
to bring nations together again, and encouraged unity in the Spirit of Jesus
Christ. But so often, we seek unity and strength apart from Christ. We seek it
in visions of a family dynasty, we seek it in one nation’s strength. But God
isn’t allowing it. Who knows how a son will treat his father’s inheritance?
Solomon asks. The nations are a drop in the bucket, Isaiah says. God limits
every human effort at dominion not rooted in His Son. This is why federalism
was a genius of our founders as they reached back to the Bible. Keep power
limited and local, as long as sin reigns in the world.
But God has chosen to build His church, and the
gates of hell shall not prevail against it. His church will outlast every
nation, every persecution, every passing year. Because the Spirit is within
her. The Spirit and the Bride say “Come.” There is the foundation of unity for
mankind. In one people, professing the name of Jesus, living for Him,
worshiping Him. You won’t find lasting unity at the U.N. Lobby groups like the NRA or the Republican
party offer a fake unity around only a few issues. It is the church that will
be completely holy and closely unified with the Triune God. The church is not
an optional luxury if we can make it.
So as you begin a new year, tie any resolutions
you make to the Lord Jesus. Take them to Him daily, and they won’t fall away so
quickly. Consider your church’s role in your sancitification. Don’t take vows
frivolously. Do strive for a new obedience. Seek your restoration at the
manger, at the foot of the cross, at the empty tomb, and in Christ’s Spirit.
1/6/13
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