Connected in Christ: Advancing Global Oneness from Your Local Church
Summary of Jesus’ Prayer
“that all of them may be one” (John 17:21 NIV)
written by Ed Murphy
New Life Methodist Church, La Grange, Texas
The Ecumenical Relationships Commission is developing a dynamic new resource designed to ignite excitement, deepen discipleship, and strengthen local churches through intentional relationship-building. These relationships—across the Global Methodist Church and with other Christian traditions that share our core beliefs—help congregations grow spiritually and multiply their impact in their communities.
Whenever believers honor the calling, gifts, and traditions of other followers of Jesus, both ministries flourish. We may not always understand or agree with every practice or perspective, but when we take time to hear each other’s stories and journeys with Christ, we discover how God is at work in ways that expand our vision and strengthen our faith.
You may wonder, “Why this emphasis now?” Because division—whether ancient or modern—has always weakened the witness of God’s people. Jesus knew this. In John 17, He prayed earnestly that His followers would become one, reflecting the perfect unity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Imagine what might happen if the Church today sought that same oneness with renewed passion and humility.
The new resource will feature global video testimonies, small-group sessions, study guides, and practical tools to help congregations embrace and practice ecumenical relationships. You’ll see how believers around the world are living out Jesus’ prayer for unity and how their stories can inspire your church to create a vision, develop goals, and form meaningful relationships within your own community and beyond.
Why does this matter? Jesus tells us plainly in John 17:20-25: the world will recognize God’s love—and believe our message about Christ—when they see the love and unity we share. The honor, respect, and affection we show other believers are not optional virtues; they are essential to our witness.
We invite you to participate in this movement of connection and grace. If you have a story or testimony about how another believer—or another church—has strengthened your faith, please share it! Send your story to Ed Murphy at edmurphy@cvctx.com. Your experience may be exactly what another congregation needs to hear.