Investing in the Next Generation | Francis Chan at the Send Pre-Rally

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message emphasizes the importance of unity among believers, highlighting that it's a choice we make every day. We are called to walk in a manner worthy of our calling, with humility, gentleness, patience, and bearing with one another in love (Ephesians 4:1-2). This unity is not just about being together physically but also about maintaining the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3). The speaker shares personal experiences, including his encounters with Mike Bickle and others, to illustrate the cost of unity and how it requires us to put up with each other's weaknesses.

Key Scripture References

• Ephesians 4:1-6 - This passage emphasizes the importance of living a life worthy of our calling, with humility, gentleness, patience, and bearing with one another in love. It also highlights the unity that comes from being part of the body of Christ.
• Ephesians 4:7-16 - This section explains how Jesus gave gifts to men, including apostles, prophets, teachers, evangelists, and shepherds, to equip the saints for the work of ministry. It also emphasizes the importance of unity in the body of Christ.
• John 14:15-31 - This passage reminds us that God dwells in believers and that we should fear Him. The speaker shares how this realization has led him to commit to Mike Bickle, recognizing that he is a gift from God.
• 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 - This section explains the different gifts of the Holy Spirit and emphasizes that they are all necessary for the body of Christ. The speaker uses this passage to illustrate how we should not think we can do without others but rather appreciate their unique gifts.
• Hebrews 2:3-4 - This passage reminds us that God has spoken in many ways and that His message is clear. The speaker uses this passage to emphasize the importance of listening to God's voice, even if it comes through others.

Key Takeaways

• Unity among believers is a choice we make every day.
• We are called to walk in a manner worthy of our calling, with humility, gentleness, patience, and bearing with one another in love (Ephesians 4:1-2).
• The unity of the Spirit requires us to put up with each other's weaknesses and differences.
• God dwells in believers, and we should fear Him and appreciate His gifts in others.
• We should not think we can do without others but rather appreciate their unique gifts and contributions to the body of Christ.

Personal Application

This message encourages us to reflect on our relationships with others and how we choose to respond to them. Are there people in your life that you are struggling to get along with or put up with? How can you apply the principles from Ephesians 4:1-6, such as humility, gentleness, patience, and bearing with one another in love? How can you appreciate the unique gifts and contributions of others and commit to maintaining unity in your relationships?