Building the Church: Unity, Purpose, and Participation

Summary

In today's gathering, we focused on the profound calling of the church to edify itself and fulfill the Great Commission. We began by acknowledging the unique presence of God in our midst, emphasizing that our primary desire is to experience His presence rather than seek blessings. This sets the tone for our worship, which is not just about music or rituals but about being bonded together as a community in Christ. We are reminded of the upcoming Chest of Joash offering, a tradition that allows us to give our first and best gifts to Jesus, reflecting the true spirit of Christmas. This offering supports various mission projects and maintenance needs within our church, and we are encouraged to give generously and sacrificially.

The essence of our discussion was centered on the purpose of the church, which is to glorify God and fulfill the Great Commission. Every church, despite its unique flavor and personality, shares this common goal. We explored the imagery used in Ephesians to describe the church: as the bride of Christ, the body with Christ as the head, and a building with Christ as the cornerstone. These metaphors highlight the importance of edification, which is not merely about increasing numbers but about growing into Christ's likeness.

Edification involves building each other up in love, using our spiritual gifts for the perfecting of the saints and the work of the ministry. We are called to be active participants in this process, contributing to the church's growth and maturity. This requires unity, diversity, and a commitment to maturity in Christ. We are reminded that Christ is the one building His church, and our role is to partner with Him in this divine construction project.

As we reflect on our role in the church, we are challenged to consider whether we are truly part of the church, actively participating in its edification, and using our gifts to build others up. The call is to be builders, not wreckers, contributing to the church's mission of spreading the gospel and nurturing believers in their faith journey.

Key Takeaways:

1. Presence Over Blessings: Our primary desire should be to experience God's presence rather than seek blessings. Worship is about bonding together as a community in Christ, not just about music or rituals. This focus helps us grow spiritually and strengthens our unity as a church. [00:00]

2. Purpose of the Church: The church's purpose is to glorify God and fulfill the Great Commission. Despite different flavors and personalities, every church shares this common goal. Our task is to edify the church, building each other up in love and growing into Christ's likeness. [46:37]

3. Imagery of the Church: Ephesians describes the church as the bride of Christ, the body with Christ as the head, and a building with Christ as the cornerstone. These metaphors emphasize the importance of edification, which involves more than just increasing numbers; it's about spiritual growth and maturity. [48:06]

4. Unity and Diversity: The church is founded on unity and framed with diversity. We are all different, yet we are called to work together for the edification of the church. Our spiritual gifts are given for the perfecting of the saints and the work of the ministry. [01:08:55]

5. Active Participation: We are called to be active participants in the church's edification process. This involves using our gifts to build others up and contributing to the church's mission. We must be builders, not wreckers, partnering with Christ in building His church. [01:15:49]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:30] - Opening Prayer
- [01:45] - Importance of Worship
- [03:10] - Chest of Joash Offering
- [06:25] - Purpose of the Church
- [10:40] - The Great Commission
- [13:55] - Edification of the Church
- [17:20] - Imagery in Ephesians
- [20:45] - Unity and Diversity
- [25:30] - Spiritual Gifts
- [30:15] - Active Participation
- [35:00] - Building the Church
- [40:10] - Personal Reflection
- [45:00] - Invitation to Respond
- [50:00] - Closing Prayer

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1. Ephesians 4:11-16
2. Matthew 16:18
3. 1 Corinthians 14:12

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Observation Questions:

1. What are the three metaphors used in Ephesians to describe the church, and what do they signify about the church's relationship with Christ? [48:06]

2. How does the sermon describe the purpose of the Chest of Joash offering, and what is its significance for the church community? [43:53]

3. According to the sermon, what is the primary task of the church, and how is it related to the Great Commission? [46:37]

4. What role do spiritual gifts play in the edification of the church, as discussed in the sermon? [01:14:21]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the imagery of the church as a bride, body, and building help us understand our role in the church's mission? [48:06]

2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that unity and diversity are both essential for the church's growth and maturity? [01:08:55]

3. How does the concept of edification extend beyond mere encouragement, according to the sermon? [53:17]

4. What does it mean to be an active participant in the church's edification process, and how does this relate to the use of spiritual gifts? [01:14:21]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your personal experience of God's presence in worship. How can you prioritize seeking His presence over seeking blessings in your daily life? [49:33]

2. Consider the unique gifts and talents you possess. How can you use them to contribute to the edification of your church community? [01:14:21]

3. Think about a time when you felt truly edified by someone in your church. What specific actions did they take, and how can you replicate those actions to build others up? [53:17]

4. How can you actively participate in the church's mission to fulfill the Great Commission in your local context? Identify one specific action you can take this week. [46:37]

5. Reflect on the diversity within your church community. How can you embrace and celebrate this diversity while working towards unity in Christ? [01:08:55]

6. Are there areas in your life where you might be more of a "wrecker" than a "builder" in the church? What steps can you take to change this and become a more positive influence? [01:15:49]

7. Identify one person in your church who seems discouraged or disconnected. What practical steps can you take to edify and encourage them this week? [01:07:08]

Devotional

Sure, here is the 5-day devotional based on the key takeaways from the sermon summary:

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Day 1: Experiencing God's Presence Together

In our spiritual journey, the focus should be on experiencing God's presence rather than merely seeking His blessings. Worship is not confined to music or rituals; it is about coming together as a community in Christ, united in purpose and spirit. This collective experience of God's presence strengthens our spiritual growth and unity as a church. By prioritizing His presence, we align our hearts with His will, fostering a deeper connection with Him and with each other. This approach transforms our gatherings into powerful moments of spiritual renewal and communal bonding. [00:00]

"Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded." (James 4:8, ESV)

Reflection: How can you intentionally seek God's presence in your daily life, beyond the church setting, and invite others to join you in this pursuit?

Day 2: The Church's Unified Mission

The church exists to glorify God and fulfill the Great Commission, a mission shared by all congregations despite their unique characteristics. This purpose calls for the edification of the church, where members build each other up in love and grow into Christ's likeness. By focusing on this mission, the church becomes a beacon of hope and transformation in the world, drawing others to the love and grace of God. Each member plays a vital role in this mission, contributing to the church's growth and impact. [46:37]

"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:19-20, ESV)

Reflection: What specific steps can you take this week to contribute to the church's mission of making disciples and glorifying God?

Day 3: The Church as Christ's Living Metaphor

Ephesians uses rich metaphors to describe the church: the bride of Christ, the body with Christ as the head, and a building with Christ as the cornerstone. These images emphasize the importance of edification, which goes beyond numerical growth to focus on spiritual maturity and transformation. As members of the church, we are called to embody these metaphors, living out our faith in ways that reflect Christ's love and truth. This involves a commitment to personal and communal growth, as we strive to become more like Christ in every aspect of our lives. [48:06]

"So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone." (Ephesians 2:19-20, ESV)

Reflection: In what ways can you actively contribute to the spiritual growth and maturity of your church community?

Day 4: Embracing Unity and Diversity

The church is a tapestry of unity and diversity, where each member brings unique gifts and perspectives to the table. This diversity is not a hindrance but a strength, as it allows the church to function effectively and fulfill its mission. By embracing both unity and diversity, we create an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute to the edification of the church. This requires a commitment to love, respect, and collaboration, as we work together to build a community that reflects the heart of Christ. [01:08:55]

"For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ." (1 Corinthians 12:12, ESV)

Reflection: How can you celebrate and utilize the diverse gifts within your church to foster greater unity and effectiveness in ministry?

Day 5: Becoming Active Builders in the Church

We are called to be active participants in the church's edification process, using our gifts to build others up and contribute to the church's mission. This involves a commitment to being builders, not wreckers, as we partner with Christ in building His church. By actively engaging in this divine construction project, we help create a vibrant and thriving community that reflects God's love and truth. This requires intentionality, dedication, and a willingness to serve others selflessly. [01:15:49]

"Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." (2 Corinthians 9:7, ESV)

Reflection: What specific gifts or talents can you offer to support the growth and edification of your church community today?

Quotes

1. "Praise God for the music this morning. Love the way that it prepares our hearts. Not only prepares us, but it does a work of edification in our hearts together. It's so good to see each one of you here this morning. If this is your first or second time with us, you've just been with us a short time, we're so glad that you're here and we're grateful that you've made this a place to be. It's a place that you can worship. And then, of course, the old-timers, the all-timers, the long-timers, we're glad that you're here as well." [00:38:54] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "Every church has its flavor. There are certain factors. Sometimes it's the region of the country. Some of the churches we would go in and other regions of the country were more reserved, a little more refined, a little more polished. And then we'd be in some churches here in the south where they were snotting, spitting, sweating, running the aisles, shouting, swinging from the chandeliers if they had them, and wide open. I've been in some services. Now, as a child, I have to admit the fleshly carnal part of me enjoyed the exciting services a lot more because it was far more entertaining because you never knew what was going to happen." [00:43:53] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "One thing that's the same in all churches, though, every church everywhere and every time, it's the same purpose. We saw that last week. What is the purpose of the church? To bring glory to God. The means that we use, every church is going to have different ministries that God calls them to. There are things that God calls our church to do that he may not call other churches to do. I remember back some years ago, many churches were called to have a bus ministry, and many people were brought to Christ through the bus ministry." [00:47:26] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "As we think about that, as we think about the task that God gives us, we're going to look at some of those things that we do for the glory of God, but I want to preach to you this morning on our part of that task is to edify the church because we are the church. This building's not the church, though this is the place where the church meets. We are the church. And so the church is to edify the church. That sounds like a little bit of an intro, a little twist, but you'll see in a moment in verse 16 that he says the body is going to be edifying itself, building itself up." [00:48:06] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "Here's my definition of edification based on Ephesians. Edification is the work of Christ, I will build my church, in and through His church. Christ is edifying us. He is building us up, strengthening us, changing us into the image of Christ. And He's doing it through His church. The church is to edify itself to do three things, to establish it as His building, to expand it as His body, and one day to exalt it as His bride." [00:55:08] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "God didn't save you to sit in a chair, though we sit in chairs when we worship. Christ didn't go to the cross and suffer all that He suffered for us just to be good religious people. He went to the cross to redeem our soul, but to transform our entire being into Christ-likeness. That's the task of the church. We are on mission. We are in partnership. We are on the team. We are part of His construction crew to build His church. We do that by edifying one another." [00:56:29] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "We are expected to be a part of God's edification, His building of His church. Upon this rock, I will build my church. I want you to be a part of the building of the church. So really, three questions that I'll revisit in just a moment are, number one, am I part of the church? I don't mean have you come down and shaken the hand and filled out a card or gotten baptized. I mean, have you trusted Jesus Christ as your Savior?" [00:58:47] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "I remember hearing the lady one time that was going, she wanted to come to a church and be baptized and they asked her what was her motivation. Had she trusted Christ? She said, no, I'm just trying to be a member of every church in our community and she was going from church to church trying to join all the churches that's a little bit of confusion but it's not any more confused than the person who is a member perhaps of central baptist church who thinks that being a member or who thinks walking through those doors is somehow going to get you into heaven." [00:59:44] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "Are you participating in the edification of the church? Are you being a part of what is growing? You can't help others if you are not growing yourself. You can't edify others. You can't obey the command of Christ to edify others if you don't grow yourself. You can't help others if you don't grow yourself. You can't freely if you're not being edified, if you're not being built up and strengthened yourself, that's why it's so important to be a part of the church." [01:02:30] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10. "I think about so many people in my life that have had a part in God's work of edifying and building me to where I am today. I have a long way to go. Remember the old children's song? He's still working on me to make me what I ought to be. It took him just a week to make the moon and the stars, the sun and the earth and Jupiter and Mars. How loving and patient he was. He was a must be. He's still working on me. God's, God's at work in me." [01:15:59] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

Chatbot

Transcript

What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?

Were there any personal stories shared?