by melindasbaker

Our Riches Found Through Christ Jesus

Our Riches Found Through Christ Jesus

Ephesians 4

Through the first three chapters of Ephesians, we have considered teachings regarding those who choose to follow Jesus Christ and experience new life in Him are made rich through the loving act of dying on the cross for us and providing the Holy Spirit as a helper for our daily living.

 Beginning in Ephesians 4 we are directed into the practical teachings. We will learn how our walk is affected as we put into practice what the Lord has made available to us.

  • Walk with the Lord in unity
    • This is neither a sprint nor standing still, but a steadfast walk
    • The grace of unity (Ephesians 4:1-3)
      • Unity is not uniformity
        • Uniformity comes from external pressure to conform
        • Unity comes from within and it is born from things that are held in common
      • Unity comes from Christian graces
        • Qualities Jesus demonstrated
          • Lowliness or humility
          • Meekness (power under control)
          • Gentleness
          • Longsuffering
          • Forbearance
          • Love
          • Endeavoring (eager to maintain unity)
          • Peace
    • The basis of unity (Ephesians 4:4-6)
      • There are seven realities that unite true believers
        • One body – every believer is a part of the body of Christ
        • One Spirit – the Holy Spirit dwells in each believer
        • One hope
        • One Lord – Jesus is the one and only Savior
        • One faith – one settled body of truth
          • There may be different understandings, but only one truth
        • One baptism
        • One God and Father
      • It is our responsibility to keep the unity
    • The aides to unity (Ephesians 4:7-11)
      • God has given us humans who can help in the understanding of God’s message
        • Apostles
          • One who is sent with a commission
          • They were eyewitnesses to the Resurrection
        • Prophets
          • One who proclaims the Word of God
          • Prophets told God’s message before there were written Scriptures
        • Evangelists
          • Bearers of the Good News of the Gospel
        • Pastors & teachers
          • Shepherds
    • The growth of unity (Ephesians 4:12-16)
      • There is evidence of maturing in our Christian life
        • Christlikeness
        • Stability
        • Speak the truth in love
        • Cooperation

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