God’s new community – Eph.4:1-16

The Church – the display of God’s wisdom – Eph 3:10,11

1. A united community – 4:2-6

a. God has made us one – v.4-6

b. We must guard our unity – v.3

c. The atmosphere of love – v.2; John 13:35

G.H.F.W.M.Y. people

2. A diverse community – 4:7-12

Dependent on God’s grace – Eph 2:8,9; 4:7

a. The victorious Christ gives gifts – v.7-10

He sends the Spirit with service gifts – Acts2:33

- Gifts of the Spirit – 1 Cor.12-14

- Gifts of the Father – Rom.12

b. The gifts are diverse – v.11

At least 20+ gifts are mentioned in the N.T.

The Church should always be:

GOING – cross boundaries with the Gospel

HEARING – listening to God’s voice

TELLING – proclaiming the Gospel

CARING – meeting needs of people

KNOWING – the truth of the Bible/Gospel

c. The gifts are to serve others – v.12

EVERY Christian is called to be a minister:-

1. Some have roles within the Church to help equip others – v.11

2. All are equipped by God – 1Cor.12:7,11; Eph.4:7,16; 1Pet.4:10,11

3. A growing community – v.13-16The well-being of our soul:-a. Am I growing more easily discouraged?b. Am I growing more easily irritated?Well-being of the Churcha. Are we growing in our love for each other? –

v.13,15,16 1Thess.3:12; 4:9,10b. Are we growing in our grasp of the truth? –

v.13,14,15 John 1:14 – Grace & Truth

4. God’s great call – 4:1- How committed are you to the family at Argyle?- How passionate are you about guarding the

unity?- Are there members you don’t love?- What gifts has God given you?- How are you using that/those gifts?- Are you growing in the knowledge of Christ?