Sermon Notes

Follow Along

Ephesians

Unity in the Church

Ephesians 3:1-13

As I briefly wrote earlier, God himself revealed his mysterious plan to me. As you read what I have written, you will understand my insight into this plan regarding Christ. Ephesians 3:3-4


I was chosen to explain to everyone this mysterious plan that God, the Creator of all things, had kept secret from the beginning. Ephesians 3:9

1. The Mystery of the Church

When I think of all this, I, Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus for the benefit of you Gentiles . . . assuming, by the way, that you know God gave me the special responsibility of extending his grace to you Gentiles. Ephesians 3:1-2


a. The mystery received


b. The mystery revealed


God did not reveal it to previous generations, but now by his Spirit he has revealed it to his holy apostles and prophets. Ephesians 3:5


And this is God’s plan: Both Gentiles and Jews who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children. Both are part of the same body, and both enjoy the promise of blessings because they belong to Christ Jesus. Ephesians 3:6


c. The mystery restated

2. The Minister to the Church

By God’s grace and mighty power, I have been given the privilege of serving him by spreading this Good News. Ephesians 3:7


a. Paul was appointed by God


b. Paul was anointed


Though I am the least deserving of all God’s people, he graciously gave me the privilege of telling the Gentiles about the endless treasures available to them in Christ. Ephesians 3:8


c. Paul was amazed that God used him

3. The Mission of the Church

a. To declare the truth to all people


God’s purpose in all this was to use the church to display his wisdom in its rich variety to all the unseen rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. This was his eternal plan, which he carried out through Christ Jesus our Lord.

Ephesians 3:10-11


b. To display the truth to angels


4. The Ministry of the Church

Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come boldly and confidently into God’s presence. So please don’t lose heart because of my trials here. I am suffering for you, so you should feel honored. Ephesians 3:12-13


a. The ministry of the church includes prayer 


Do We Long for the Unity of Believers?


How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony! Psalm 133:1


Do We Love All the Members of God's Family?


Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples. John 13:34-35


Do We Look for Ways to Reach Out to Those Who Might Not Feel Included

Made a decision to follow Jesus?