Uniting the
Body of Christ
in Seattle
By Jesse Bradley
The Big Picture
Jesus’ longest prayer is found in John
chapter 17. Jesus wants His followers
to be united with a great purpose. When
we unite and collaborate, the world will
see the love of Jesus and be drawn to
Him (John 17:23). Why is it so difficult
to come together? When will we drop our
logos and egos and embrace a kingdom
mindset and new relationships? Do you
strongly desire what Jesus wants in your
city? God’s family is made up of many
generations, cultures, denominations,
personalities, and nations.
There are almost 2 million people in the
greater Seattle area who do not follow
Jesus. Seattle has the second highest
number of dechurched and eighth highest
number of unchurched people in our
nation. No one church is going to reach
the Sound; we need each other. The old
proverb is true: ministry happens faster
alone, but we go further together. We are
praying for a discipleship movement,
with multiplication, not merely addition.
The only way this is going to happen is
through the power and love of the Holy
Spirit!
Healthy leadership, vibrant churches,
fervent prayer, new churches, theological
education, pastoral care, owning the
lostness in our city, tackling injustice,
and boldly spreading the gospel are
all necessary. There has been an
encouraging swell of prayer for many
years in the Pacific Northwest, and
prayer precedes revival. We are taking
a very relational approach, not rushing
the process, and we can not move faster
than the level of trust. We need to repent
from competition, isolation, resentment,
slander, and pride. There is no unity
without humility (Ephesians 2:1-4).
New Cohorts
It is exciting and deeply fulfilling when
pastors can be honest with each other
and build up each other too. God is
thrilled when His leaders and family
figure out how to get along well and learn
from each other. It is easier for pastors
to preach a message on the love of God
Solutions • 11