Leader Guide
At The Cove Church: We Stay United and We Keep It Real. Before Jesus went to the cross, He prayed that His followers would experience the same kind of unity that exists between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. That kind of love and unity isn't something we create on our own, it's something God grows in us as we choose humility, forgiveness, honesty, and grace. As we love one another well, we become a powerful witness to the world of who Jesus is.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
Leader: This section is designed to get discussions started, examine God’s truth, and apply it to our week. Life Group leaders should not assume everyone in their group is a Christ follower. Because they are taking part in a Life Group, they must have some openness to know more and explore. Pray for the Holy Spirit to work and let Him lead you as well.
1. If you could permanently end one silly debate/division in the world, what would it be? (Examples: Is a hot dog a sandwich? Pineapple on pizza? Toilet paper over or under?)
2. Read John 17:20-24. Who is Jesus praying for in these verses? What makes the unity Jesus describes different from simply getting along or agreeing on everything? What is the purpose of that kind of unity? What does this passage teach about God’s love for us?
Leader: Jesus isn't praying only for His disciples, but for everyone who would believe in Him, including us. He asks that we would experience the same kind of unity shared between the Father and the Son. This supernatural unity isn't something we create on our own; it is a gift from God that points people to Jesus and demonstrates that He truly is the Son of God. Jesus desires for His followers to grow into complete unity and one day be with Him to experience His glory. He reminds us that the Father loves us with the same love He has for His Son. Unity flows from understanding how deeply we are loved by God and reflects His love to the world.
3. Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-7; 1 Peter 4:8-9. What attitudes and actions in these passages help protect unity? Which of these commands seem especially important in a culture that is often quick to criticize, take offense, or create division?
Leader: Love chooses to protect rather than tear down, rejoices in truth instead of wrongdoing, and puts others ahead of itself. Living out this kind of Christ-like love is one of the primary ways we protect unity and “keep it real” with one another. Peter encourages us to love one another deeply because love covers many offenses. Instead of grumbling or allowing small frustrations to grow into division, we choose hospitality, grace, and forgiveness. Unity grows when we assume the best about one another.
4. Read Acts 2:43-46. How did the early church demonstrate unity in practical ways? What attitudes and actions made their community different? Which of these examples could we intentionally practice today?
Leader: The early church wasn’t united because everyone was the same. They were united because they shared a common faith, purpose, and commitment to Christ. Their unity was visible through worship, generosity, fellowship, and caring for one another. Healthy unity today is built the same way, being real and authentic with others and keeping Jesus at the center. Choosing love over preference.
Action Step: Jesus prayed for our unity before He went to the cross. This week, ask God to help you reflect His love in your relationships. Each day, read 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 and choose one characteristic of love to focus on. When frustration, conflict, or offense arises, pause and ask, “Will my response build unity?” Choose words and actions that encourage, forgive, and point others to Christ.
Optional - Deeper Dive: Read Acts 15:36-41; 2 Timothy 4:11. What does this account teach us about the difference between disagreement and division? How does Paul’s later relationship with Mark demonstrate the kind of love, grace, and unity that Jesus prayed for in John 17?
Leader: Unity does not mean believers will never disagree. Even mature followers of Jesus can have different perspectives. What protects unity is our commitment to God’s mission, our willingness to extend grace, and our desire for reconciliation when possible. Paul and Mark’s restored relationship reminds us that God can use humility and forgiveness to bring healing and growth.