Challenges in Unity – Who We Are

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There are clear differences across communities, and when we think about unity, we face a challenge. Consider this: First, we’re Protestants. What word is at the heart of “Protestan t”? Protest. Our faith inherently involves protest and division. You can debate the reasons behind it and whether it was necessary, but we have to acknowledge that the Protestant tradition is rooted in protest. But we’re not just Protestants—we’re American Protestants. Our country was founded on revolution, on overthrowing authority, with a “don’t tread on me” attitude. No one tells us what to do. And we’re not just Americans, we’re Westerners. Many moved West to escape the structures and formality of the East. We wanted freedom and independence. We’re also Arizonans, a state where “don’t tread on me” runs even deeper. There’s a strong sense of self-reliance and independence. We live in the Southeast Valley by choice, not Scottsdale or Arcadia. We’re here intentionally, with a mindset of “don’t tell me what to do.” If we don’t like something, we’ll just separate ourselves. That’s ingrained in us. Yet, Jesus’ dream isn’t for us to splinter or isolate ourselves—it’s for us to be united, to come together. Show more