Illuminate Community Church

10/20/24 - Unity and Diversity in the Church - Ephesians 4:1–16 - Pastor Jason Fritz


Listen Later

In a world marked by division, God's people should stand out as the most unified force on the planet. In Ephesians chapter 4, Paul transitions from theology to practical application, urging believers to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling" they have received. 

 

Paul is thinking of the theological realities described in the earlier chapters; and they are amazing…

 

- we are chosen

- we are redeemed

- we are sealed by the Holy Spirit

 

Therefore, we are called to live lives that reflect these profound spiritual truths.

 

Paul introduces the concept of “walking worthy” by explaining that it involves two major characteristics: unity and holiness. He highlights the importance of humility, gentleness, and patience as foundational qualities that foster unity among believers. In a world rife with division and alienation, Paul underscores the need for Christians to embody the unity that comes from the Spirit, maintained through the bond of peace. This unity is not uniformity, but rather a harmonious relationship rooted in shared faith and mutual love, despite our differences.

 

Paul also discusses the diversity of gifts within the church, given by Christ to promote unity and build up the body of believers. These gifts include ministries such as apostles, prophets, evangelists, and pastors, each serving to equip the saints for ministry and to help the church grow into maturity in Christ. The goal is for the church to attain unity in faith and knowledge, enabling it to stand firm against false teachings and to grow together in love. This is discipleship. Paul encourages every believer to participate in ministry, emphasizing that when each part of the body functions properly, the church builds itself up in love, reflecting the fullness of Christ. 

 

Let me ask you friend, what is your part? What is your ministry to the saints? We need you!!

 

...more
View all episodesView all episodes
Download on the App Store

Illuminate Community ChurchBy illuminatecommunity

  • 4.9
  • 4.9
  • 4.9
  • 4.9
  • 4.9

4.9

28 ratings


More shows like Illuminate Community Church

View all
Timothy Keller Sermons Podcast by Gospel in Life by Tim Keller

Timothy Keller Sermons Podcast by Gospel in Life

16,029 Listeners

Passion City Church Podcast by Passion City Church

Passion City Church Podcast

2,226 Listeners

BibleProject by BibleProject Podcast

BibleProject

19,380 Listeners

The Ben Shapiro Show by The Daily Wire

The Ben Shapiro Show

153,684 Listeners

Focus on the Family Equipping Parents Podcast by Focus on the Family

Focus on the Family Equipping Parents Podcast

1,064 Listeners

The Eric Metaxas Show by Metaxas Media

The Eric Metaxas Show

3,778 Listeners

The Daily by The New York Times

The Daily

111,929 Listeners

Up First from NPR by NPR

Up First from NPR

56,595 Listeners

Relatable with Allie Beth Stuckey by Blaze Podcast Network

Relatable with Allie Beth Stuckey

21,119 Listeners

Unashamed with the Robertson Family by Tread Lively

Unashamed with the Robertson Family

24,755 Listeners

The Charlie Kirk Show by Charlie Kirk

The Charlie Kirk Show

66,800 Listeners

The Megyn Kelly Show by SiriusXM

The Megyn Kelly Show

40,332 Listeners

Huberman Lab by Scicomm Media

Huberman Lab

29,172 Listeners

Practice Makes Parent by Focus on the Family

Practice Makes Parent

125 Listeners

Candace by Candace Owens

Candace

11,277 Listeners