SUMMARY: Unity
OVERVIEW: Paul pleads for the Ephesians to live consistent with their calling and to be united in the Spirit. A unified body will get to be part of Christ’s kingdom work throughout the world.
BIG IDEA: Build one another up.
KEY VERSE: Ephesians 4:11-12 (Paul mentions roles designed to advance God’s kingdom through the local church)
Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
You prove your love for me when you love one another, and you function as one body giving me praise and seeking unity. There is one Lord and one God, so spend your time encouraging each other in the faith. Be humble and gentle towards one another. Be patient. Do all you can to get equipped and to prepare others for works of service in your homes and around the world.
I want the body of Christ to be healthy. I want it built up and mature, no longer living like newborns who can not care for themselves, who are dependent upon others to spoon-feed them. Instead, meet with me. Grow on your own so that you and each person are prepared to speak the truth in love. Each day put on the new self I have given you, and take off the old, corrupted self. The former may feel more comfortable, but it will not provide you with life. Keep exercising the new one, and soon, you will live life the way I intended
NEXT STEP
Do you have a spiritual mentor? Identify someone—geographically near or far—whose relationship with God you respect and ask him or her if you can meet monthly —in person or over video chat/phone—to discuss growing your relationship with Christ. Be prepared for someone to ask you the same thing, too.
LYRIC VIDEO