Bible Text: Ephesians 4:1-16 |  

Ligaments of Love       Ephesians 4:1-16

Introduction:  (Therefore) in light of what Paul has written so far about our position in Christ.

I.        God’s Plan: That his people would be one just as he is one

A.     (v1a) As a prisoner for the Lord I urge you…

1.      Paul reminds that this won’t always be easy

2.      Paul urges people to live out of their new position/identity

B.     (v1b) Live a life worthy of the calling you have received

1.      (v2) Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, in love

2.      (v3) Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit

C.     (v5-6) One Lord, one faith, one baptism, God & Father of all

1.      (v4) There is one body and one Spirit

2.      (v4) Just as you were called to one hope

II.       God’s Provision:  By his grace he has given gifts to his people.

A.     (v7) To each one grace has been given as Christ apportioned

B.     (v8) When he ascended on high…and gave gifts to his people

C.     (v11) So Christ himself gave apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers

III.      God’s Purpose:  That his people would grow and mature

A.     (v12) To equip his people for acts of service

1.      (v12) So that the body of Christ may be built up

2.      (v13) So that we reach the unity of faith in Jesus

3.      (v13) And become mature, attaining the full measure

B.     (v14) Then we will no longer be infants (children)

C.           (v15) Instead, we will speak the truth in love

Conclusion:   (v16) From Him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.