PASTOR JOHN COWLES
FAMILY WORSHIP ASSEMBLY
WE ARE THE CHURCH!
Ephesians 4:1-3
Ephesians 4:1 (ESV)
1I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called,
(NLT) beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling…
Christians DON’T go to church – we are called to be the CHURCH!
Acts 2:42-47 (ESV)
42And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.
Ephesians 3:10 (ESV)
10so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places.
Ephesians 4:1 (ESV)
1I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called,
HOW DOES THE
Ephesians 4:2-3 (ESV)
2with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Ephesians 4:2-3 (NLT)
2Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. 3Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.
Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.
WHY IS THIS
Ephesians 4:3 (be/make every effort) eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
WHAT MUST I DO SO THIS HAPPENS?
Ephesians 4:2 (ESV)
2with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love,
The first being: HUMILITY.
James 4:10 (ESV)
10Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.
Philippians 2:4-5 (ESV)
4Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,
GENTLENESS.
Ephesians 4:2 (ESV)
2with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love,
Titus 3:1-2 (ESV)
1Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, 2to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.
Matthew 11:29 (ESV)
29Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
PATIENCE.
Ephesians 4:2 (ESV)
2with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love,
SELF-CONTROL
Paul says: bearing with one another in love.
Ephesians 4:1-3 (ESV)
1I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.