Embracing Discipleship: Unity in Diversity and Growth
Summary
### Summary
Today's focus is on our church covenant, particularly the aspect of discipleship. Our covenant is a two-fold commitment: what each member offers to the church and what the church offers to its members. Discipleship is central to this covenant, emphasizing growth, support, and participation in the church's missions and ministries. We are all called to be disciples of Jesus, learning from Him and growing in our faith.
Ephesians 4 teaches us that the work of Christ is to bring unity and oneness. This unity, however, is not uniformity. We are all unique, with different gifts and abilities, and it is through our diversity that the power of God's love is revealed. Our differences make ministry possible, as each of us can reach people in ways others cannot.
Paul's message in Ephesians is clear: we are to grow up in every way into Christ, reflecting His nature in our unique ways. This growth is a lifelong journey, guided by the Holy Spirit. Our task as a church is to create spaces where the Holy Spirit can work, allowing us to join in what God is already doing in the world.
We are entering a new season with three distinct worship services to reach as many people as possible. Each service—blended, contemporary, and traditional—offers different ways to connect with God, catering to various spiritual needs and backgrounds.
Discipleship is about paying attention to life and recognizing God's presence in every moment. It's about setting aside our ego desires and growing in love. Paul urges us to put away childish ways and mature in our faith, reflecting Christ in all we do. This maturity involves learning to live out of control, trusting in the Spirit's guidance.
As members of North Raleigh United Methodist Church, we commit to growing, supporting, and participating in the church's missions and ministries. Our church, in turn, commits to providing faith-building opportunities and support across all seasons of life. Every moment is an opportunity for discipleship, and through our unity in the Spirit, we can discover our call to ministry.
### Key Takeaways
1. Discipleship as a Lifelong Journey: Discipleship is not a one-time event but a continuous journey of learning and growing in Christ. It involves being a student of Jesus, learning from His teachings, and applying them in our daily lives. This journey requires commitment and a willingness to grow in faith and love. [28:16]
2. Unity in Diversity: Unity in Christ does not mean uniformity. We are all unique, with different gifts and abilities, and it is through our diversity that the power of God's love is revealed. Our differences make ministry possible, as each of us can reach people in ways others cannot. [31:59]
3. Creating Space for the Holy Spirit: Our task as a church is to create spaces where the Holy Spirit can work. This involves being open to the Spirit's guidance and joining in what God is already doing in the world. We don't need to convince God to act; we need to recognize and join His ongoing work. [37:51]
4. Spiritual Maturity: Paul urges us to put away childish ways and grow up in our faith. This maturity involves reflecting Christ in our unique ways and living a life guided by the Spirit. It means setting aside our ego desires and seeking to live a life in Christ. [46:02]
5. Every Moment as an Opportunity for Discipleship: Discipleship involves paying attention to life and recognizing God's presence in every moment. Whether we are joyful, fearful, or facing challenges, these moments are opportunities to grow in love and discover our call to ministry. [44:50]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[28:16] - Introduction to Church Covenant
[30:10] - Ephesians 4: Unity in Christ
[31:59] - Unity vs. Uniformity
[33:45] - The Power of Diversity in Ministry
[35:47] - Reflecting the Nature of God
[37:51] - Creating Space for the Holy Spirit
[39:29] - Recognizing Different Spiritual Needs
[40:09] - Three Distinct Worship Services
[44:15] - Discipleship in Everyday Life
[46:02] - Spiritual Maturity and Growth
[47:17] - Overcoming Ego Desires
[50:22] - Living Out of Control
[51:48] - Small Group Initiative
[53:35] - Reflecting Christ in Our Lives
[55:24] - Hymn of Response: The Church's One Foundation
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- Ephesians 4:1-6 (NIV)
> "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."
#### Observation Questions
1. According to Ephesians 4:1-6, what are the characteristics Paul urges believers to embody?
2. How does Paul describe the concept of unity in Ephesians 4:4-6? What repeated words emphasize this unity?
3. In the sermon, what are the two main commitments of the church covenant mentioned? [28:16]
4. What are the three distinct worship services mentioned in the sermon, and what unique needs do they aim to meet? [40:09]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does it mean to "live a life worthy of the calling you have received" as described in Ephesians 4:1? How can this be applied in our daily lives?
2. How does the diversity of gifts and abilities among church members contribute to the unity and mission of the church? [31:59]
3. The sermon mentions creating space for the Holy Spirit to work. What practical steps can a church take to ensure this happens? [37:51]
4. Paul urges believers to "put away childish ways" and grow up in faith. What might be some examples of "childish ways" in a spiritual context? [46:02]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own spiritual journey. In what ways have you seen growth in your faith and love over the past year? What areas still need development? [46:40]
2. How can you use your unique gifts and abilities to contribute to the church's mission and ministries? Identify one specific way you can get involved. [33:45]
3. Think about a time when you felt the presence of the Holy Spirit guiding you. How can you create more space in your life for the Holy Spirit to work? [37:51]
4. The sermon emphasizes the importance of unity in diversity. How can you foster unity within your small group or church community while celebrating individual differences? [31:59]
5. Discipleship involves recognizing God's presence in every moment. This week, how can you be more attentive to God's work in your daily life? Share one specific practice you will implement. [44:50]
6. Paul talks about setting aside ego desires to live a life in Christ. Identify one ego-driven behavior you struggle with. What steps can you take to overcome it and grow in spiritual maturity? [47:17]
7. The sermon mentions three distinct worship services to meet different spiritual needs. Which service do you feel most connected to, and why? How can you invite others to experience this connection? [40:09]
This guide is designed to help your small group delve deeper into the themes of discipleship, unity, and spiritual growth as discussed in the sermon. Use these questions to foster meaningful conversations and encourage each other in your faith journeys.
Devotional
Day 1: Discipleship as a Lifelong Journey
Discipleship is not a one-time event but a continuous journey of learning and growing in Christ. It involves being a student of Jesus, learning from His teachings, and applying them in our daily lives. This journey requires commitment and a willingness to grow in faith and love. As we walk this path, we are called to be attentive to the ways in which God is shaping us, molding our character, and deepening our understanding of His love and grace.
This lifelong journey is marked by moments of joy, challenge, and transformation. It is a process of becoming more like Christ, reflecting His nature in our actions, thoughts, and relationships. Discipleship is about setting aside our own desires and ambitions to follow the path that Jesus has laid out for us. It is about being open to the Holy Spirit's guidance and allowing God to work in and through us in every season of life. [28:16]
Ephesians 4:15-16 (ESV): "Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love."
Reflection: What is one specific area of your life where you feel God is calling you to grow? How can you take a step today to deepen your discipleship in that area?
Day 2: Unity in Diversity
Unity in Christ does not mean uniformity. We are all unique, with different gifts and abilities, and it is through our diversity that the power of God's love is revealed. Our differences make ministry possible, as each of us can reach people in ways others cannot. This diversity is a strength, not a weakness, and it allows the church to be a more complete and effective body of Christ.
In Ephesians 4, Paul emphasizes that the work of Christ is to bring unity and oneness. However, this unity is not about everyone being the same; it is about being united in purpose and mission while celebrating our individual differences. Each person's unique gifts and abilities contribute to the overall health and mission of the church. By embracing our diversity, we can better reflect the fullness of God's love and reach a wider range of people with the message of the Gospel. [31:59]
1 Corinthians 12:4-6 (ESV): "Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone."
Reflection: Think about the unique gifts and abilities God has given you. How can you use these gifts to serve others and contribute to the unity and mission of the church?
Day 3: Creating Space for the Holy Spirit
Our task as a church is to create spaces where the Holy Spirit can work. This involves being open to the Spirit's guidance and joining in what God is already doing in the world. We don't need to convince God to act; we need to recognize and join His ongoing work. Creating space for the Holy Spirit means being attentive to His presence and allowing Him to lead us in our ministries and daily lives.
This requires a posture of humility and openness, being willing to set aside our own plans and agendas to follow the Spirit's leading. It means creating environments where people can encounter God, experience His love, and be transformed by His presence. As a church, we are called to be facilitators of God's work, creating opportunities for the Holy Spirit to move and work in powerful ways. [37:51]
Acts 2:17-18 (ESV): "'And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; even on my male servants and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy.'"
Reflection: How can you create space in your daily life to be more attentive to the Holy Spirit's guidance? What practical steps can you take to be more open to His leading?
Day 4: Spiritual Maturity
Paul urges us to put away childish ways and grow up in our faith. This maturity involves reflecting Christ in our unique ways and living a life guided by the Spirit. It means setting aside our ego desires and seeking to live a life in Christ. Spiritual maturity is about developing a deeper relationship with God, understanding His will, and aligning our lives with His purposes.
This growth is a lifelong journey, marked by continuous learning, self-reflection, and transformation. It involves being willing to let go of our own desires and ambitions to follow the path that Jesus has laid out for us. As we mature in our faith, we become more attuned to the Holy Spirit's guidance and more committed to living out the teachings of Christ in our daily lives. [46:02]
Hebrews 5:12-14 (ESV): "For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil."
Reflection: In what ways do you feel called to grow in spiritual maturity? What specific steps can you take to deepen your relationship with God and align your life more closely with His will?
Day 5: Every Moment as an Opportunity for Discipleship
Discipleship involves paying attention to life and recognizing God's presence in every moment. Whether we are joyful, fearful, or facing challenges, these moments are opportunities to grow in love and discover our call to ministry. Every experience, whether positive or negative, can be a chance to deepen our faith and draw closer to God.
This perspective requires a mindset of constant awareness and openness to God's presence. It means being intentional about seeking God's guidance and recognizing His hand at work in our lives. By viewing every moment as an opportunity for discipleship, we can cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude, trust, and reliance on God. This approach helps us to see the bigger picture of God's plan and purpose for our lives, even in the midst of everyday challenges and routines. [44:50]
Colossians 3:17 (ESV): "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
Reflection: How can you be more intentional about recognizing God's presence in your daily life? What practical steps can you take to view every moment as an opportunity for discipleship and growth in your faith?
Quotes
1. "One of the commitments that each and every one of us make is that we will grow. We will grow. We will be disciples of Jesus. The other part is what we as a congregation will provide. We will provide faith-building opportunities and support across all the seasons of life. We will seek to provide ways for each of us to grow as individuals and for us to grow as a community." [28:16] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We are bold enough, every Sunday we gather for worship, and we're bold enough to say that Jesus Christ is a solid foundation upon which you can build your life. Jesus Christ is the solid foundation. We commit ourselves to that. If you are new to the faith, if you are new to the community, we invite you to make that decision. To turn your life to follow Jesus as Lord. To be a learner. To be a student. And then we pass it on. What we have learned, what we experience, we share. In a word, we're disciples. In a word, you are disciples. disciples, followers, and learners of Jesus." [29:10] (49 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The work of Christ is unity. The purpose of Christ in our lives and in our world is oneness. A new humanity, as Paul says. If you look at verse 3, he goes on to say, to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of love. We are called to be one in Christ, and we are one in Christ through the bond of love. In verse 4, it gets a little repetitive, but listen to the repetition. One body, one spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of us all." [30:10] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "You are uniquely created in the image of God. You have certain interests and gifts and abilities. You have certain abilities. You know people that other people may not know. And you have the unique ability to share God's love to some people that nobody else may have shared God's love with. Each of you is unique. But together, united in the Spirit, in the bond of love, God's grace and God's love is shared in this world. In fact, our unity in the midst of our uniqueness reveals the power of love." [31:59] (49 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Discipleship is so that we might join in the work of ministry. and the work that God is already doing in our world. This new humanity that Paul is talking about, this new humanity is to reflect the very nature of God. Right? We gather to worship one God, the one God every week. But we proclaim that God has been revealed in three persons, Father, Son, Holy Spirit. And we teach the crazy notion that the Father is not the Son. The Father is not the Spirit. The Spirit is not the Son and vice versa. There are three distinct persons, one God. The very essence of God is unity among uniqueness." [35:47] (54 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Our task as pastors and staff and leaders of this congregation to the lay leaders is to create a space for the Holy Spirit to work. We believe that God's Spirit and God's grace is always at work. And our task is to create a space to be open to the Holy Spirit. Our task is to join in what God is already doing. I began with the assumption that God is already at work. We don't have to talk God into doing anything." [36:55] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "Discipleship. Learning from Jesus is our call. And I like to teach that this opportunity is every moment of every day. Every moment of every day is an opportunity to discipleship. Not everyone connects to God the same. And what I teach is that the heart of spirituality is paying attention to life. Paying attention to what's going on in your life in this moment today. What's happening in your life right now? Are you joyful? Are you fearful? Are you excited about something? Is there something you dread? No matter where you are, we say that's where you're going to find God because God is working in those moments right here and right now." [44:15] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "Grow up, he said. Verse 15. Speaking the truth in love, we must grow up every way into him who is the head, into Christ, for whom the whole body, that's Paul's image for the church, the body of Christ, joined and knit together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body in building itself up in love. Grow up, he says. And this maturity that Paul speaks of is growing up into Christ. Each one of us has the opportunity to reflect Christ in our own unique ways. To be mature in faith." [46:02] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "I hope I'm a little bit more like Jesus today than I was five years ago. And I hope five years now I'll still even be more like Jesus. But Paul says, put away your childish ways. Quit being tossed to and fro by the fancy doctrines that have come out. Quit being tossed to and fro by the shiny objects that people show. Grow up, he says. And I believe that Paul is inviting us to not seek to satisfy our ego needs, but seek to live a life in Christ." [47:17] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "Discipleship is about growing up into the likeness of Christ in my own unique way. It's about you following Jesus, learning from Jesus in your own unique way, using your gifts, sharing your gifts, sharing your joy, inviting others to join in this journey of discipleship. So our task is to create space for the Holy Spirit to work. That's why we're just doing that one event for the fall. We want to gather. And we're serious about this. We want 100 people to show up for this. We want to do a small group in a large group setting. We all want to be learners together." [51:07] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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