The key phrases that stick out to me in this verse are to have one mind, to sympathize, to love each other, to be tenderhearted, and to be humble.
Another word for having one mind is like-mindedness. This does not mean we must agree on every issue, but it does mean we share a common purpose and commitment to Christ. This reminds me of a point Dr. Carl taught us this past Sunday — we need to remember the referee. Christ is our common ground, and He will work out all things for His glory.
Sympathizing is understanding and sharing the feelings of others. By putting ourselves in others’ shoes, we can better support and accept one another, especially in times of disagreement.
Love is the foundation of all Christian relationships. Loving one another means we seek the best for each other, forgive freely, and act with kindness and patience. This love and sympathy creates a soft and tender heart. It is easy for me to have conflict when my heart is hardened, it is much harder when I am in authentic relationship with someone, when I love them and sympathize with them, when I pray for them, when I have a tender heart towards them.
Humility involves recognizing our own limitations and valuing others above ourselves. I love the Rick Warren quote, “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it is thinking of yourself less.”
Paul is teaching us to accept each other and to build a community that reflects Christ’s love and grace. With sympathy, love, tenderheartedness and humility we partner with Christ in the building up of not only our Cypress Creek community, the the worldwide Church Christ is leading.