Introduction: 1. Unity is needed in the congregation. 2. There is diversity in the church. 3. Note what the church must know to remain united. 4. Eph. 4:7-16. I. Gifts that unite (verses 7-11). A. The gifts are given by Christ. 1. How and when (Jn. 16:7)? 2. As a triumphant king Jesus passes out the gifts (Heb. 2:14). 3. By his grace. 4. They were for the purpose of verse 13. They laid a foundation (Eph. 2:20) as they declared the revelation of God and gave confirmation to their teaching. B. Thee gifts are… 1. Apostles (No longer a role in the church) (Acts 1:21, 22). 2. Prophets-proclaims God’s message (Eph. 3:5; 1 Cor. 14:3). No longer a position in existence today. 3. Evangelist-proclaims the good news of Christ. This is not just a professional job (2 Tim. 4:2, 5). 4. Pastors (1 Tim. 3:1f.; Titus 1:5f.; 1 Pet. 5:1-4; Heb. 13:17; Acts 20:28). 5. Teachers. Note: This may be a hyphenated ministry with number 4 and not a different ministry. (2 Tim. 2:2; 1 Tim. 1:3). II. The purpose of the gifts (verses 12-16). A. Perfecting –to equip (train). To restore to original condition, setting bones. Helping others to perfect growth (Col. 1:28; 4:12). There is work to be done (1 Cor. 15:58; 1 Pet. 2:5, 9; 4:10, 11). B. Build the body (edification). Build a house. Discouragement does set in from time to time. Examples: Elijah, Paul, and Jesus. But each member is (Heb. 10:25; 3:13; Rom. 12:8). C. Become Christlike-radiate and reflect Christ (1 Jn.2:6; Col. 4:12>2 Cor. 3:18). D. Provide stability for us. 1. False teachers “falseness” slight loaded dice, craftiness-clever manipulation (Rom. 16:17-18; Heb. 13:9). 2. Ready to face (Eph. 6:10). E. Unity/cooperation might exist (verse 16). 1. Every joint supplieth. 2. Importance of unity. 3. Need for unity. 5. Christ provides the strength. Conclusion: Every member should do his part to build the church up and to make it stronger. Thus Eph. 4:3.
Entered on 9/28/2008
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