Text: Eccl 4: 9-12 Date: 6/10/24
Introduction
Today is the first Sunday in the Month of October. October is a special month in the life of every Nigerian. It is the month of our independence. By the grace of God, October is our month of Solidarity for Progress (Eccl 4: 9-12).
Eccl 4: 9-12- Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: 10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. 11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? 12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. (NIV)
The way the life of a human being is structured is to make constant progress- physical growth, spiritual growth, financial growth, growth in influence, maturity etc. But no one can make progress without the support of others. We all need solidarity- friendship, discussion, support, prayers, affirmation etc.
The Concept of Solidarity
The concept of solidarity—standing together as one body—lies at the heart of Christian teaching. As believers, we are not called to live in isolation but to work together in unity for a common purpose. Solidarity brings about progress, both individually and collectively. The Bible is filled with examples of how collective action, partnership, and unity bring strength, support, and the favor of God.
Dimensions of Solidarity
- Solidarity in the Body of Christ
1 Cor 12: 12-14 12 Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. 13 For we were all baptized by[c] one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. 14 Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many. (NIV)
The Church is compared to a body with many parts, each part contributing to the overall health and function of the body. If one part is sick, the body cannot function.
When we stand together in solidarity as the Body of Christ, every believer plays a unique role that is crucial for the overall progress of the Church.
Unity in Diversity: Though we are different in gifts, talents, and backgrounds, our unity is what makes us strong and effective in our mission to spread the gospel.
Mutual Support: Just as a physical body supports itself, the Church must operate in such a way that no member is neglected. When one part suffers, the entire body suffers. In the same way, when we help one another, we all progress together.
- Solidarity for Progress in the Christian Family
Scripture:
Gen 11: 6 -The Lord said, “If as one people speaking the same language they have begun to do this, then nothing they plan to do will be impossible for them. (NIV)
Though this verse refers to the people building the Tower of Babel in rebellion, it highlights the power of unity. When people come together with one mind and purpose, they can accomplish extraordinary things—whether for good or ill. In the context of Christian families, solidarity in vision and values promotes spiritual and emotional progress.
Strength in Togetherness: A family bound by love, trust, and shared values is powerful. Families should pray together, serve together, and stand by each other in challenging times. This unity strengthens relationships and fosters personal and spiritual growth.
Collective Growth: Just as in the Tower of Babel, when everyone speaks the same language and works towards a common goal, progress is inevitable. Families united in Christ work toward God’s purpose with power and effectiveness.
- Solidarity for Progress in Ministry
Ex 17: 10-13 -So Joshua fought the Amalekites as Moses had ordered, and Moses, Aaron and Hur went to the top of the hill. 11 As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. 12 When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset. 13 So Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword.
“If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go with people.”
This passage is a clear demonstration of how solidarity leads to victory and progress. Moses couldn’t hold up his hands alone, but with the help of Aaron and Hur, they brought victory to the Israelites.
Collaboration in Ministry: No one person can carry the burden of ministry alone. Just like Moses needed Aaron and Hur, leaders in ministry require the support of their teams. Each of us is called to hold up one another’s hands in prayer, encouragement, and assistance.
Progress through Partnership: When believers work together in solidarity, victories are won in the spiritual realm and in practical ministry. This partnership multiplies our efforts and helps achieve results that could not be achieved individually.
- Solidarity in Community and Country
Acts 4: 32-25 All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. 33 With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all 34 that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales 35 and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone who had need. (NIV)
This is the highest level of human solidarity: From each according to his/her ability, to each according to his/her need.
The early church demonstrated the power of solidarity by sharing resources, supporting one another, and prioritizing the needs of others over personal gain. As a result, God’s grace worked powerfully among them, and their community thrived.
Caring for One Another: True solidarity in Christ requires that we bear one another’s burdens. By showing love and concern for the well-being of others, we build strong communities that reflect the heart of Christ.
Progress through Generosity: The early church progressed because they practiced radical generosity. Sharing our resources, time, and talents with others in the community advances the Kingdom of God and enriches our own spiritual growth.
- Solidarity for Global Impact
Matt 18:18-20-Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. (KJV)
Jesus emphasized the power of unity in prayer and action. When believers come together in agreement, their impact extends beyond local communities to global dimensions. Solidarity among the Body of Christ can transform nations.
Power in Agreement: When we unite in prayer, we access the power of God to bring about divine intervention and transformation in our world. Praying in solidarity makes our voices louder and stronger in the spiritual realm.
Mission for the Nations: The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) calls us to make disciples of all nations. This mission cannot be fulfilled by isolated efforts but requires collective action from the global Church. By standing together, we can reach the unreached, impact societies, and bring nations to Christ.
Conclusion:
Solidarity for progress is not just a human strategy; it is God’s ordained plan for His people. When we come together as one body, in our families, churches, ministries, and communities, we unleash God’s power to accomplish great things. Let us commit to standing together in unity, supporting one another, and working collectively for the progress of God’s Kingdom. As Ecclesiastes 4:12 reminds us, “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” Together, in solidarity, we are stronger, and through Christ, we will achieve progress.
Prayer Points
Father, help us to stand together in solidarity to support one another and work for the progress of our families, churches, communities, country and the Kingdom.
Find a neighbour and pray the prayer of agreement. Bind whatever you want to bind.