An Unshakable Church (Ephesians Pt. 16) | Francis Chan

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message highlights the importance of becoming the church that God has called us to be, as described in Ephesians 4. The passage emphasizes that God wants us to become unified in the faith, mature in our understanding of Christ, and equipped with gifts to build each other up in love. This is not just a future goal, but a present reality that we can attain through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Key Scripture References

• Ephesians 4:10-16 - God's desire for us to become unified in the faith and mature in our understanding of Christ is not just a future goal, but a present reality that we can attain through the power of the Holy Spirit. This passage emphasizes the importance of becoming like Christ in our character and behavior.
• Ephesians 4:13 - The goal of unity and maturity is not just for individual believers, but for the entire church. When we work together to build each other up, we can attain to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.
• John 17:21-23 - Jesus' prayer in John 17 reveals that unity among believers is a key factor in demonstrating God's love and glory to the world. When we are unified, it becomes clear that Jesus is the Messiah.
• Ephesians 2:15-16 - The cross of Christ has broken down the barriers between different groups of people, creating a new humanity where all can be one in Christ.
• Ephesians 4:7-8 - God has given gifts to every part of the body, and when we use these gifts to build each other up, the church becomes stronger and more effective in its mission.

The Goal of Unity and Maturity

The goal of unity and maturity is not just a future reality, but a present one that we can attain through the power of the Holy Spirit. This involves becoming like Christ in our character and behavior, and working together as a church to build each other up.

The Role of Gifts

God has given gifts to every part of the body, and when we use these gifts to build each other up, the church becomes stronger and more effective in its mission. This involves using our unique talents and abilities to serve others and contribute to the growth of the church.

The Importance of Responsibility

When God gives us a task or gift, it is not just for our own benefit, but for the benefit of others as well. We must take responsibility for using our gifts to build up the body of Christ and contribute to the growth of the church.

The Power of the Holy Spirit

The power of the Holy Spirit is essential for attaining unity and maturity in the faith. Through the Spirit, we can become like Christ in our character and behavior, and work together as a church to build each other up.