The Arkansas Traveler

THE CHURCH – A DIVINE UNITY

Ephesians 4:1-16

INTRO:  After many teachings which involved several prayers, Paul turned to practicalities. How should this look like in our ongoing lives? He talks about unity. Let's consider:

THE BASIS OF THE UNITY (vs. 4-6)

   One body and one Spirit

   One calling to one hope

   One LORD, one faith, one baptism

   One God and Father of all

   Who is over all, through all and in all

DIVERSITY IN UNITY (vs. 7-11)

   Christ has given grace gifts to each

   Some leaders are mentioned here

   I Cor. 12 and Romans 12 list many individual gifts

   Unity does not mean uniformity.

RESULTS (vs. 12-16)

   Members are equipped for ministry

   Ministry actions build the church (numerically and spiritually

   Maturity in Christ

   Stability in face of opposition

DEMONSTRATED IN INDIVIDUALS (vs. 1-3)

   Humility

   Gentleness

   Longsuffering (patience with people)

   Bearing with one another in love

   Peace through the Spirit

            POSSIBILITY: This can only be possible through the work of God in our lives. It begins with His calling us. We respond to his call to salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Then He is able to build us up in the faith and service to Him.