Living Out Our Calling: Unity and Transformation in Christ
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, church! Today, we celebrate the vibrant energy of our youth, who are unashamedly sharing the gospel and transforming lives. Levi, one of our young members, has even started his own connect group at school, which is a testament to the amazing work God is doing in our youth ministry.
We've been diving deep into the book of Ephesians this term, exploring the profound teachings of the Apostle Paul. Paul, once a persecutor of Christians, had a life-changing encounter with Jesus that transformed him into a fervent advocate for the gospel. His letter to the Ephesians outlines God's grand plan to unite Jews and Gentiles into one family through Christ.
Today, we focus on Ephesians 4, where Paul urges us to live a life worthy of our calling. Our primary calling as Christians is to be in a relationship with God and with each other. This relationship is the foundation upon which everything else is built. Without it, our careers, families, and other pursuits can become idols that distract us from our true purpose.
Paul emphasizes the importance of humility, gentleness, patience, and making allowances for each other's faults. These virtues are crucial for maintaining unity in the body of Christ. The Greco-Roman culture of Paul's time viewed humility as weakness, but Jesus demonstrated that true strength lies in knowing who we are in God and not needing to prove ourselves.
Each of us has been given special gifts by Christ to build up the church. Whether you are an apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, or teacher, your gift is essential for the health and growth of the body of Christ. When we use our gifts in service to God and each other, we equip the church to face the challenges of the world.
Our calling is not about chasing fame or comfort but about being transformed by God and living in service to Him. As we seek first the kingdom of God, everything else will be added to us. Let us allow the Holy Spirit to transform our minds and hearts, so we can live out our calling with passion and purpose.
### Key Takeaways
1. Primary Calling: Relationship with God and Each Other
Our primary calling as Christians is to be in a relationship with God and with each other. This foundational relationship shapes everything else in our lives. Without it, our careers, families, and other pursuits can become idols that distract us from our true purpose. [50:06]
2. Virtues for Unity: Humility, Gentleness, Patience
Paul emphasizes the importance of humility, gentleness, patience, and making allowances for each other's faults. These virtues are crucial for maintaining unity in the body of Christ. True strength lies in knowing who we are in God and not needing to prove ourselves. [52:02]
3. Special Gifts for Building the Church
Each of us has been given special gifts by Christ to build up the church. Whether you are an apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, or teacher, your gift is essential for the health and growth of the body of Christ. When we use our gifts in service to God and each other, we equip the church to face the challenges of the world. [54:46]
4. Transformation Through Renewed Minds
Our calling is not about chasing fame or comfort but about being transformed by God and living in service to Him. As we seek first the kingdom of God, everything else will be added to us. Let us allow the Holy Spirit to transform our minds and hearts, so we can live out our calling with passion and purpose. [58:59]
5. Responding to God's Call
Today is an opportunity to respond to God's call. Whether you are returning to Him or accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior for the first time, God is calling you back to Himself. This is a journey of transformation and restoration, guided by the Holy Spirit. [01:09:35]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[41:32] - Youth Ministry Updates
[43:36] - Introduction to Ephesians
[44:20] - Paul's Transformation
[45:07] - Purpose of Ephesians
[46:43] - Ephesians 4:1-6 Reading
[48:04] - Gifts from Christ
[48:52] - Understanding Our Calling
[50:46] - Living a Life Worthy of the Calling
[52:02] - Virtues for Unity
[54:07] - Special Gifts for Building the Church
[55:20] - Using Our Gifts
[57:07] - Responding to God's Call
[59:57] - Seek First the Kingdom
[01:08:40] - Invitation to Respond
[01:09:35] - Prayer for Transformation
[01:11:18] - Invitation to Accept Christ
[01:12:18] - Closing Prayer and Worship
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- Ephesians 4:1-7 (NLT)
- Romans 12:1-2 (NLT)
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Paul urge believers to do in Ephesians 4:1? How does he describe the manner in which they should live? [46:43]
2. According to Ephesians 4:2, what virtues are essential for maintaining unity in the body of Christ? [47:22]
3. What special gifts does Paul mention in Ephesians 4:11, and what is their purpose? [48:04]
4. In Romans 12:1-2, what does Paul mean by being a "living and holy sacrifice"? How does this relate to our calling as Christians? [58:07]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Paul emphasize humility, gentleness, and patience in maintaining unity within the church? How do these virtues contribute to a healthy community? [52:02]
2. How does understanding our primary calling to be in a relationship with God and each other change our perspective on careers, family, and other pursuits? [50:06]
3. What does it mean to have a renewed mind according to Romans 12:2, and how does this transformation impact our daily lives and decisions? [58:59]
4. How can recognizing and using our spiritual gifts build up the church and equip it to face challenges? What might happen if these gifts are not utilized? [55:45]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your current relationship with God. Are there areas where you feel distant or distracted? What steps can you take this week to strengthen this relationship? [50:06]
2. Think of a recent situation where you struggled with humility, gentleness, or patience. How can you approach similar situations differently in the future to promote unity? [52:02]
3. Identify your spiritual gifts. How are you currently using them to serve the church? If you are not using them, what is one practical step you can take to start? [55:20]
4. In what ways can you allow the Holy Spirit to transform your mind and heart this week? Are there specific thoughts or behaviors you need to surrender to God? [58:59]
5. How can you prioritize your relationship with God over other pursuits in your life? What practical changes can you make to ensure that your career, family, and hobbies do not become idols? [50:06]
6. Is there someone in your life who needs to experience the virtues of humility, gentleness, and patience from you? How can you intentionally show these virtues to them this week? [52:02]
7. Reflect on a time when you felt called to respond to God's call but hesitated. What held you back, and how can you overcome these obstacles in the future? [01:09:35]
Devotional
Day 1: The Foundation of Our Calling: Relationship with God and Each Other
Our primary calling as Christians is to be in a relationship with God and with each other. This foundational relationship shapes everything else in our lives. Without it, our careers, families, and other pursuits can become idols that distract us from our true purpose. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians emphasizes that our relationship with God and each other is the cornerstone of our faith. It is through these relationships that we experience the fullness of life that God intends for us. When we prioritize our relationship with God, we align our lives with His will and purpose, allowing everything else to fall into its rightful place.
In Ephesians 4, Paul urges us to live a life worthy of our calling, which begins with nurturing our relationship with God and each other. This means spending time in prayer, reading the Word, and engaging in fellowship with other believers. It also means being intentional about loving and serving those around us. When we focus on these relationships, we create a strong foundation that supports all other aspects of our lives. [50:06]
Ephesians 4:1-3 (ESV): "I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."
Reflection: How can you prioritize your relationship with God and others today? What specific steps can you take to ensure that these relationships remain the foundation of your life?
Day 2: Cultivating Virtues for Unity: Humility, Gentleness, Patience
Paul emphasizes the importance of humility, gentleness, patience, and making allowances for each other's faults. These virtues are crucial for maintaining unity in the body of Christ. In a culture that often views humility as weakness, Paul reminds us that true strength lies in knowing who we are in God and not needing to prove ourselves. Humility allows us to put others before ourselves, gentleness helps us to respond with kindness, and patience enables us to endure challenges without losing our composure.
These virtues are not just nice-to-have qualities; they are essential for building and maintaining healthy relationships within the church. When we practice humility, gentleness, and patience, we create an environment where people feel valued and respected. This, in turn, fosters unity and strengthens the body of Christ. As we strive to embody these virtues, we reflect the character of Jesus and contribute to the overall health and growth of the church. [52:02]
Colossians 3:12-14 (ESV): "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you struggle with humility, gentleness, or patience? How can you intentionally cultivate these virtues in your interactions with others today?
Day 3: Embracing Our Special Gifts for Building the Church
Each of us has been given special gifts by Christ to build up the church. Whether you are an apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, or teacher, your gift is essential for the health and growth of the body of Christ. These gifts are not meant to be kept to ourselves but to be used in service to God and each other. When we use our gifts, we equip the church to face the challenges of the world and fulfill its mission.
Understanding and embracing our gifts requires us to seek God’s guidance and be open to His leading. It also involves recognizing the gifts in others and encouraging them to use their talents for the benefit of the church. By working together and using our diverse gifts, we create a strong and vibrant community that can effectively share the gospel and make a positive impact in the world. [54:46]
1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV): "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen."
Reflection: What special gifts has God given you? How can you use these gifts to serve the church and contribute to its growth and health?
Day 4: Transformation Through Renewed Minds
Our calling is not about chasing fame or comfort but about being transformed by God and living in service to Him. As we seek first the kingdom of God, everything else will be added to us. This transformation begins with the renewal of our minds, allowing the Holy Spirit to change our thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors. When our minds are renewed, we begin to see the world through God’s perspective and align our lives with His will.
Living out our calling with passion and purpose requires us to be intentional about our spiritual growth. This means spending time in prayer, studying the Word, and being open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance. As we allow God to transform our minds and hearts, we become more effective in our service to Him and others. This transformation is a continuous process that requires our commitment and cooperation with the Holy Spirit. [58:59]
Romans 12:2 (ESV): "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
Reflection: In what ways do you need to allow the Holy Spirit to renew your mind? How can you be more intentional about seeking God’s transformation in your life today?
Day 5: Responding to God's Call
Today is an opportunity to respond to God's call. Whether you are returning to Him or accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior for the first time, God is calling you back to Himself. This is a journey of transformation and restoration, guided by the Holy Spirit. Responding to God’s call involves surrendering our lives to Him and allowing Him to lead us in His ways.
This response is not a one-time event but a daily commitment to follow Jesus and live according to His will. It requires us to be open to the Holy Spirit’s prompting and to trust God’s plan for our lives. As we respond to God’s call, we experience His love, grace, and power in new and profound ways. This journey of transformation and restoration is a testament to God’s faithfulness and His desire to have a relationship with us. [01:09:35]
Isaiah 55:6-7 (ESV): "Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that he may have compassion on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon."
Reflection: How is God calling you to respond to Him today? What steps can you take to surrender your life to Him and allow Him to lead you on this journey of transformation and restoration?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "God is doing such an amazing work. We are seeing lives being transformed. We are seeing young people, unashamed to share the gospel, unashamed to share Jesus to their friends and anyone they encounter. In fact, just this week, on Thursday, Levi, who got baptized, sent me a message that he started his own, he started his own connect group in his school. And I know this has, it's been a long time coming. We've been journeying and talking about it for about a year. And earlier this year, I was able to take him and another youth to the Youth Alpha Essentials program where they get students together and teach them how to start a Bible study or how to start a conversation in their school about God. And now to see a couple of months later, him starting that, he said he was so excited. He had seven people coming. For the first one, that is exciting." [42:14] (61 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "So many of us, maybe especially young people today, are asking, what is my calling? Or maybe that's a more Christian word. What is my purpose in life? Why am I here? Is my purpose in life to get married, have kids, have a good life, die, and go to heaven? Is my purpose in life my career? Is my purpose in life my life? Is my purpose in life to be the best student straight A's? Is that our purpose in life? As Christians, is that our calling? I don't know about you, for a very long time, I thought my calling was my career. I thought that, yeah, my career was my calling." [48:52] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Our calling, first of all, our calling in life, as followers, as believers, is to be in relationship with God. That is our calling in life. It's not our job. It's not our career. It's not our, those things are good. I'm not saying that we walk out of here today and go, oh, family, sorry, I'm, you know, I'm cold. That's not what it is. But the reason why our calling is to be in relationship with God, because everything else that we will do, everything else, if it's not in a relationship with God, becomes an idol." [50:06] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Church, our calling in life, I need to stress this because there's a lot of young people in the room here today who are, I don't know what my calling in life is. I don't know what my purpose in life is. Your calling in life, your calling as a follower of Christ, is to know God, is to be transformed in His image. Romans 12. Yes, I always like to go there. Therefore, Romans 12, 1. And so brothers and sisters, I plead with you, this is Paul again, to give your bodies to God because of all He has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice." [57:07] (52 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Our purpose in life is not to chase fame. Our calling in life is not to just get comfortable, get money, live a comfortable life and just say, yeah, I've accepted Jesus Christ and die and go and meet heaven. That is not. We see the apostles, we see Jesus. They gave up everything so that people can know. This is our calling in life, church. Do copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. By changing, it starts with the way we think." [58:59] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Paul says, I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, I beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling. I encourage you to spend some time in the book of Ephesians, because Paul laid it out in chapter 1 to chapter 3, what that calling is. We are to be in a relationship with God, as followers, as people who have been called, as people who have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, who have the Holy Spirit, who have the Holy Spirit inside of us. Our calling is to be in relationship with God, and guess what? With each other. With each other means being together. Can I stress that for a moment? It's being together." [50:46] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Paul says we are one body. Imagine waking up in the morning, your leg is over there, your arm is over there, your eye is over there. How are you going to function? How are you going to function? Church, how are we going to function if we are not together as one body? We cannot function. Our calling is to be in relationship with God and with each other. And guess what? There's going to be problems. There's going to be problems. We're going to step on each other's toes. And this is what Paul continues, and he says that in verse 2, he says, whilst this is happening, we should always be humble. We should always be gentle. We should be patient. We should make allowances for each other." [52:02] (50 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Young people, young church, where we know who we are, where we know who we have been called, where we know whose relationship we belong, we don't need to prove ourselves. Humility is what drives us. We are gentle with each other. We are patient. We make allowances. What is allowances? It means that we have enough inside of us to extend to other people. For those of you in school, it means that you don't take revenge. It means that you don't get on social media or create a little chat and start planning how to take revenge on that friend in school. We have to be patient with each other, make allowances for each other's fault. That's our call. That's our calling in life." [52:49] (54 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The moment you become a child of God, the moment you receive Jesus Christ, you accept Him as Lord and Savior. The moment the Holy Spirit, you accept the Holy Spirit, you are given a gift. Each and every one of us who are followers of Christ, we've got one of these gifts or more. You might say, I'm not an apostle, I'm not a pastor, I'm not an evangelist, I'm not a pastor, I'm not a teacher. I've got news for you. You've got one of those gifts. You just may not know it yet. You may not know it yet. And how do we know we've got these gifts? Well, when we receive Christ, the Holy Spirit comes and He starts working those out inside of us." [54:46] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Church, this is our calling. Our calling is to be in a relationship with God and using the gift that He's given each and every one of us to lift the body of Christ, to equip each other. And so when we step into Monday to Saturday in our workplaces, when we come together on Sunday like this, we get equipped, we listen to each other, we get encouraged, we worship, we build, we go into our Mondays. And so when things are happening to your friends at work or at school, you'll be able to sit down and go, hey, guess what? I know some people who can help with this." [56:22] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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