Introduction
In this sermon, we focus on our mission as a church, which rests on the foundations of loving God, living like Jesus, and being led by the Spirit. We began our journey last week by exploring the importance of loving God as the cornerstone of our faith. This week, we delve into the second part of our mission: to live like Jesus. Using Ephesians 4, I will underscore the significance of embodying Christ's character and actions in our daily lives. Through communal gatherings and personal discipline, we aim to cultivate a deeper understanding of what it means to grow into Christ’s likeness.
Main Points
In Ephesians 4 12-13 We Are
In Ephesians 4:12-13, we are reminded that God has equipped the church with diverse roles, apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. This multifaceted body works together for the edification of Christ's church until we collectively attain the fullness of Christ.
- Our gatherings are not merely about expanding knowledge; they are about cultivating spiritual maturity.
- It is essential to ask ourselves whether our church experiences and personal faith journeys lead us closer to being more Christ-like.
- As you reflect upon your involvement, consider how well you are integrating love for God and your neighbors in every part of your life.
- Examining Matthew 6, we encounter the Lord's Prayer, where Jesus teaches his disciples how to connect with God.
Prayer Is Not Just A Ritualistic
Prayer is not just a ritualistic act, it's foundational for spiritual transformation. How we pray reveals our hearts, our priorities, and our love for others.
- My prayer life intimately reflects my relationship with God and my compassion for the world.
- By praying like Jesus, we become more like Him; our prayers reveal His priorities and must precede any genuine effort to live out our faith.
- Focus on integrating prayer into your daily rhythm, recognizing its power to transform both your heart and witness.
- As we evaluate what it means to live like Jesus, observe His instruction to pray for our daily bread.
This Teaches Us Reliance On God
This teaches us reliance on God in both small and large matters. We can’t wait until a future point to be on mission; instead, we are called to faithfully seek God's provision and mission in our everyday lives. Jesus’ ministry was not expansive overnight; it was intentional and relational. We often fall into the temptation of extreme changes rather than gradual, sustainable habits. Instead of waiting for the perfect moment to act, let every day be an opportunity to align ourselves with Christ. Forgiveness is central to our representation of Jesus in the world.
Jesus S Instruction To Forgive As
Jesus's instruction to forgive as we have been forgiven reshapes how we interact with others. In our relationships, conflicts arise, and offenses occur. It can be easy to allow grievances to create distance. However, by leading with forgiveness, we reflect God's heart to a broken world. Those who have experienced God's grace must also extend it to others. Embrace every chance to practice forgiveness in your daily interactions; this is crucial for maintaining unity within the body of Christ.
Create A Culture In Your Life
Create a culture in your life and in your church where repentance and forgiveness flourish. As we pray not to be led into temptation, we acknowledge the struggles we face. Temptations to stray from our calling to love and serve can overshadow our mission. Yet we rely on the power of the Holy Spirit to navigate these challenges. Jesus modeled this dependence, and it’s our lifeline as we seek to live righteously. Stay vigilant in recognizing what may lead you away from Christ’s path, and actively seek to overcome those hurdles through prayer and accountability.
Finally We Celebrate Communion As A
Finally, we celebrate communion as a reminder of our shared mission and the sacrifice that empowers it. In breaking bread and sharing the cup, we recognize that the offenses that separate us from God and one another have been reconciled through Christ’s blood. This sacrament reminds us of our shared identity and purpose as we strive to live like Jesus. Let this act spark us to reflect Christ's love in our actions and relationships.
Conclusion
In summary, our call to live like Jesus is a profound and ongoing journey, intertwined with loving God and allowing His Spirit to guide us. Through our engagement with prayer, commitment to forgiveness, and mutual support as a church, we embody a lifestyle reflective of Christ’s character. Our goal is to continually grow into the likeness of Jesus, showcasing His grace and love to a world in need. As we embrace this mission, let each day be an opportunity to live out the transformative power of the gospel.