BIG IDEA: Grace transforms us into responsible humans.
The New Testament refers to Christianity as a one anothering faith over 50 times!
Ephesians 1-3 explain how the graces we receive equip us to reconcile with ANY person for ANY reason.
What does it mean to be one in Christ?
Verses 4-5 say it’s at least 7 things: There is one body and one Spirit--just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call--one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. These are what we call our “core or high value” beliefs.
What makes a gift “spiritual”?
In 1 Corinthians 12, the Apostle Paul urged us not to be ignorant about spiritual gifts and explained that natural abilities become spiritual abilities when we submit them to the Lordship (authority) of Jesus for the common good. Natural abilities turn into spiritual abilities exactly how natural people transform into spiritual people--by the powerful indwelling Spirit.
Which Christians get the gifts?
Ephesians 4:11-15 blends 3 unlikely images: babies, a boat being tossed about on a stormy sea, and cunningly deceptive tricksters. The point is that Jesus gifts churches with leaders to graze, guide, and guard His people to avoid mission creep.
