ACTS 1:6-8
So… what’s next?
Church at Ephesus
- They couldn’t have been more different.
- “It would have taken an act of God to unify them.” – Tim Mackie
But the cross did more than bring us out of sin… it brought us together
Society wants to divide us into different classes/groups/levels but we are something new.
“Being diligent (go through great pains) to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”
Because unity doesn’t happen naturally.
– The Holy Spirit makes us bear fruit
– The fruit brings us together
– Together we can make a difference (in each others lives, and the world)
“Unity does not mean sameness. It means oneness of purpose.”
– Priscilla Shirer
Ephesians 4:11-13
Unity is the key!
How do we get there?
Ephesians 4:22-23
Paul goes on to illustrate the differences between our old and new life…
(from the end of Chapter 4 through the beginning of Chapter 5)
– Don’t lie… tell the truth!
– Don’t harbor anger… make peace!
– Don’t steal… Give generously
– Don’t let your words hurt others… help others
– Don’t get revenge… Forgive others
– Don’t live promiscuously… Follow Jesus
– Don’t be thoughtless… take time to understand God’s will
What does this Spirit-filled life look like?
- Sing songs?
- Be Thankful
- Submit to one another
“The Spirit-filled life is not a special, deluxe edition of Christianity. It is part and parcel of the total plan of God for His people.”
– A.W. Tozer
Church 29:11 