Flag on the Play, Part 4: Illegal Formation // Jamie Nunnally

When God's people aren't lined up together, we lose ground. In this message, Pastor Jamie Nunnally shares how to avoid the football penalty "illegal formation," which is called when players aren't lined up correctly.

Church, what if we're out of formation? What if we have the right players, play, and coach—but we're not aligned with each other?

Spiritual illegal formation is choosing individuality over unity.

Unity is harmony despite differences; uniformity is sameness. Too often, we value personal preference over kingdom purpose. But when we isolate instead of cooperate, we run our play, not God's. Unity isn't about looking the same—it's about looking in the same direction.

The church's power comes from agreement.

Matthew 18:19 says if two agree on earth, God will do it. The Greek word symphōnéō means "to sound together." God is the melody—we follow His lead and harmonize with each other.

Unity is essential.

Ephesians 4:3-4 urges us to stay united in the Spirit, bound in peace. You'll spend eternity with other Christians—better learn to get along now.

Unity attracts the Holy Spirit.

Psalm 133 says unity is like oil poured out—oil represents the Spirit. How can we experience revival if we can't even walk in relationship?

Our unity is evangelism.

John 13:35: "Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples." When we fight, the world stays in the stands instead of joining the team.

Even when we disagree, we're still on the same team.

Luke 9:49-50—Jesus says, "Anyone not against you is for you." Stop tackling your teammates. Pride builds walls; Jesus builds teams.

1 John 4:20-21 reminds us: You can't love God and hate His kids.

Division is the devil's weapon.

The word "devil" means false accuser. Nothing makes hell happier than Christians fighting.

If you separate over opinion, your offense may have become your idol. Jesus didn't come as a politician—He came as a Savior. He's returning for a pure, holy bride, not a divided harem.

How to Walk in Unity:

1. Don't correct what you can ignore. Romans 14:4—Let God judge His servants.
2. Practice godly confrontation. Matthew 18:15-17—Go to the person, not the comments section.
3. Value unity over uniformity. Galatians 3:26-28—You are all one in Christ. Wear your Jesus jersey.

Conclusions:

Geese fly 70% farther in formation. When the leader tires, another takes the front, but the formation holds.

Where have you let division or distraction delay God's work?

Prioritize purpose over preference.

Could "illegal formation" be called on you?