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Called Together | Dr. Dave Guiles | 2 Corinthians 8:1-7
What does it mean to confess belief in “one holy catholic church”? For many Protestants, that phrase can feel confusing or uncomfortable. But in the Apostles’ Creed, “catholic” simply means universal—a confession that all believers, in all places and at all times, are united in Christ. In 2 Corinthians 8, the apostle Paul presses this belief into action. He calls Christians in different regions and cultures to care for one another, showing that unity in Christ is not just something we confess, but something we live out through generosity, partnership, and love. This week at Grace, we hear from Dr. Dave Guiles, president of the Charis Alliance, as he helps us consider what Christian unity looks like in a global church. Today, the vast majority of Charis churches worship outside the United States, reminding us that the body of Christ is far bigger than any one nation or culture. Together, we’ll reflect on how the gospel calls believers to mutual care, shared responsibility, and deeper faith through interdependence in Christ.
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2 Corinthians 8:1-7
8 We want you to know, brothers,[a] about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, 2 for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. 3 For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, 4 begging us earnestly for the favor[b] of taking part in the relief of the saints— 5 and this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us. 6 Accordingly, we urged Titus that as he had started, so he should complete among you this act of grace. 7 But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you[c]—see that you excel in this act of grace also.