A Call to Open Hearts: Unity and Forgiveness in Christ

Dear Brothers and Sisters in the Bible-Presbyterian Church and BPC,

The Apostle Paul once wrote to a divided church, “We have spoken openly to you, and our heart is wide open. There is no restriction in our affections, but only in yours. In return … open wide your hearts also” (2 Corinthians 6:11-13). These words are not just ancient advice—they are a living challenge for us today.

Christ’s love calls us to open our hearts fully to one another.
Paul’s “open wide” heart wasn’t just a feeling—it was a choice to love boldly, even when others doubted him or caused him pain. Like Paul, we’re called to drop our defenses, tear down walls of distrust, and welcome one another—not just with words, but with vulnerable, Christlike love. This means:

1. Embrace vulnerability.
   True unity begins when we stop hiding our struggles, doubts, or past hurts. Let’s create safe spaces in our churches to share honestly, pray for one another, and say, “I need your help.” Paul didn’t pretend to be perfect—he let Christ’s strength shine through his weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). Let’s do the same.
2. Choose forgiveness over division.
   Holding onto grudges or past disagreements shrinks our hearts. Jesus said, “If you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew 6:15). Whether it’s a misunderstanding between members, tension between churches, or old wounds from the past—let’s lay it down. Forgive as Christ forgave you (Colossians 3:13).
3. Welcome each other’s gifts and callings.
   Some of us lead; some serve quietly. Some love deep tradition; others hunger for new ways to reach the lost. But Christ’s body only thrives when every part belongs (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). Let’s honor each other’s roles in ministry, share resources joyfully, and refuse to let differences become divisions.
4. Reach beyond your circle.
   An “open wide” heart doesn’t just love those who agree with us. Jesus’ love stretches to the outsider, the hurting, and even those we’re tempted to label “other.” Let’s ask: Who in our church family feels overlooked? Which sister church could we support instead of compete with? Who needs to hear, “You belong here”?

This is how the world will know we are His.
Jesus said His followers would be recognized not by perfect doctrine or impressive programs, but by love (John 13:35). That love starts with us—choosing to open our hearts wide, just as Christ opened His arms to us on the cross.

Let’s pray boldly for the Holy Spirit to soften our hearts, heal our divisions, and unite us in our mission. May the Bible-Presbyterian Church and BPC be known not for rigid walls, but for radical love, forgiveness, and a family where every heart has room.

“Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8)