Devotion # 4: “E pluribus unum”

The Latin phrase “E pluribus unum” means “out of many, one.” This phrase originated as a motto of the United States and reflects the idea of unity among diversity, particularly the union of the original thirteen colonies to form one nation. The phrase was first suggested in 1776 for the design of the Great Seal of the United States and was officially adopted in 1782. It symbolizes the blending of different peoples, cultures, and states into a cohesive whole, embodying the spirit of cooperation and unity that underpins the American identity. Though not the official motto (“In God We Trust”), it remains an important and enduring symbol of national unity and can still be found on the State of Michigan flag. In our passage today, Paul focuses on a very similar unity. 

Romans 12:4-5 says, “For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.” 

In the body of Christ, in the church, we have many members, and we do not all have the same function. At the beginning of the American idea, there was disunity because of the differences between the 13 colonies. However, the phrase “out of many, one,” I believe, comes from the same realization and understanding that Paul had, that we do not all have the same functions. We all have strengths and weaknesses, but together, we can form one unit that functions and produces life. The diversity and differences between the 13 colonies back then and overall the 50 states today have yielded strength and prosperity. In the same way, the church, though we are full of people with different abilities, functions, and gifts, is all one body in Christ. For me to slander or hurt my neighbor would be to slander or hurt my own body. 

This unity and diversity are what make the church strong. America has risen, and one day America will fall, but God’s church will endure forever. So, my questions for us today are: 

In our churches and communities, there should be no jealousy, pride-based competition, or bitterness between brothers and sisters because we are all members of one another. When our brother succeeds, we succeed; when our sister succeeds, we succeed. 

Charles Spurgeon said, “We are all members one of another. No Christian can isolate himself without loss to himself and injury to others. The welfare of one affects the rest, for the church is one body in Christ.”