Ephesians.
Week #3
Christ’s body in the world.
The church is now the main way in which God reveals himself to the world. It is first and foremost as members of Christ’s body, corporately, that we walk as children of light revealing Jesus to the world.
What does Paul say about the Body of Christ?
(We are one body - unity is vital)
Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one spirit – just as you were called to one hope when you were called – one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
Ephesians 4:3-6
What are the stumbling blocks that trip us up on being united? How can we overcome these?
‘...to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.’
Ephesians 4:12-13
How do we as the church do this? What 5 roles does Paul list?
What are your gifts and how might you use them for the benefit of the church and the world?
What do you think your gifting is within the body of Christ? Some (there are many more!) of the gifts are listed in these verses below.
‘So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service...’
Ephesians 3:11-12
Talk about one of your gifts and how you think this builds up the whole body. How can we exercise our gifts more within the church?
Closing Reflections.
Is there anything you will take away from this study and discussion?
What has stood out that you can take into your week ahead?
Pray together (in pairs or small groups) for each other, in response to your answers.