Unity and Purpose in Uncertain Times
Summary
In this season of transition and uncertainty, it is essential to remember that God remains in control. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic and societal upheavals, God continues to speak to us and guide us. As we gather virtually, we are reminded that while we may be physically distant, we are never disconnected from God. Our unity in Christ is the foundation of our faith, and it is through this unity that we are called to live out our purpose as the body of Christ.
Ephesians 4 calls us to walk in a manner worthy of our calling, emphasizing humility, gentleness, patience, and love. We are one body, united by one Spirit, one Lord, one faith, and one baptism. This unity is not just a theological concept but a practical reality that we must strive to maintain. The church is a living testament to the world of God's redemptive work through Christ. As believers, we are equipped with gifts to build up the body of Christ, ensuring that we grow into maturity and are not swayed by false doctrines or deceitful schemes.
The role of pastors and church leaders is crucial in this endeavor. They are called to lead and feed the flock, equipping the saints for the work of ministry. This involves not only preaching and teaching but also fostering an environment where every member can contribute to the church's mission. The essential pastor knows to whom they belong, understands their identity in Christ, and is clear about their work assignment. They are tasked with nurturing the church's unity and maturity, ensuring that it stands firm against the challenges of the world.
In the same way that Chadwick Boseman used his talents fully, we are called to use all our gifts for God's glory. Our ultimate goal is to stand before God, having used every gift and talent He has given us. This is our challenge and our privilege as members of the body of Christ.
Key Takeaways:
1. God's Sovereignty in Uncertain Times: Despite the chaos and uncertainty in the world, God remains sovereign and in control. Our faith is anchored in the assurance that God is working through all circumstances to fulfill His purposes. This understanding should bring us peace and confidence as we navigate life's challenges. [01:07]
2. Unity in the Body of Christ: Ephesians 4 emphasizes the importance of unity within the church. We are called to live in harmony, recognizing that we are one body with one Spirit, one Lord, and one faith. This unity is essential for the church to effectively witness to the world and fulfill its mission. [07:08]
3. The Role of Pastors and Leaders: Pastors are essential to the church's health and growth. They are called to lead and feed the flock, equipping the saints for ministry. This involves nurturing unity, teaching sound doctrine, and helping believers grow into maturity. [29:10]
4. The Power of the Gospel: The proclamation of the gospel is the remedy for a sin-sick society. It is through the gospel that we find redemption, reconciliation, and hope. The church's mission is to declare this good news to the world, bringing light to darkness. [19:06]
5. Using Our Gifts for God's Glory: Like Chadwick Boseman, we are called to use all our gifts and talents for God's glory. Our ultimate goal is to stand before God, having fully utilized everything He has given us. This is our challenge and privilege as members of the body of Christ. [01:06:27]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [01:07] - God's Sovereignty in Uncertain Times
- [02:21] - Embracing Virtual Connection
- [03:21] - Prayer and Gratitude
- [07:08] - Unity in the Body of Christ
- [11:21] - The Essential Pastor
- [14:55] - The Power of the Cross
- [17:53] - The Role of Pastors and Leaders
- [19:06] - The Gospel as Remedy
- [21:34] - Metaphors of the Church
- [25:34] - Unity Through Christ
- [29:10] - Knowing Your Calling
- [36:05] - The Gift of Grace
- [40:03] - Christ's Victory Over Sin
- [45:35] - Apostolic Authority
- [49:41] - Equipping the Saints
- [57:04] - Standing Firm in Faith
- [01:04:07] - Chadwick Boseman's Legacy
- [01:06:27] - Using Our Gifts for God's Glory
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- Ephesians 4:1-16
#### Observation Questions
1. What qualities does Paul urge believers to exhibit in Ephesians 4:1-3, and why are these important for maintaining unity? [07:08]
2. According to the sermon, what is the role of pastors and church leaders in the body of Christ? [17:53]
3. How does the sermon describe the unity of the church as a practical reality rather than just a theological concept? [21:34]
4. What example from the sermon illustrates the use of gifts for God's glory, similar to Chadwick Boseman's life? [01:06:27]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the concept of God's sovereignty provide peace and confidence during uncertain times, as discussed in the sermon? [01:07]
2. In what ways does the unity of the church serve as a witness to the world, according to Ephesians 4 and the sermon? [07:08]
3. What does the sermon suggest about the importance of knowing one's identity and calling in Christ for effective ministry? [29:10]
4. How does the sermon connect the proclamation of the gospel to addressing societal issues? [19:06]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent challenge you faced. How did your understanding of God's sovereignty influence your response? [01:07]
2. In what ways can you contribute to the unity of your church community? Are there specific actions you can take this week to promote harmony? [07:08]
3. Consider the gifts and talents God has given you. How can you use them more effectively for His glory, following the example of Chadwick Boseman? [01:06:27]
4. How can you support your church leaders in their role of equipping the saints for ministry? Are there specific ways you can assist them? [17:53]
5. Identify a situation where you can share the gospel as a remedy for societal issues. What steps will you take to engage in this opportunity? [19:06]
6. Think about your identity and calling in Christ. How does this understanding impact your daily life and decisions? [29:10]
7. What practical steps can you take to grow in maturity and avoid being swayed by false doctrines, as discussed in the sermon? [53:28]
Devotional
Day 1: God's Sovereignty Amidst Chaos
In times of transition and uncertainty, it is crucial to remember that God is sovereign and in control. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic and societal upheavals, God continues to work through all circumstances to fulfill His purposes. This understanding should bring peace and confidence as we navigate life's challenges. Our faith is anchored in the assurance that God is working behind the scenes, orchestrating events for His glory and our good. This perspective allows us to trust Him more deeply, even when we cannot see the full picture. [01:07]
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." (Jeremiah 29:11, ESV)
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you struggle to trust God's sovereignty? How can you actively surrender this area to Him today?
Day 2: Unity in Diversity
Ephesians 4 emphasizes the importance of unity within the church. We are called to live in harmony, recognizing that we are one body with one Spirit, one Lord, and one faith. This unity is not just a theological concept but a practical reality that we must strive to maintain. The church is a living testament to the world of God's redemptive work through Christ. As believers, we are equipped with gifts to build up the body of Christ, ensuring that we grow into maturity and are not swayed by false doctrines or deceitful schemes. [07:08]
"May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." (Romans 15:5-6, ESV)
Reflection: Think of a relationship within your church community that needs healing. What steps can you take this week to promote unity and reconciliation in that relationship?
Day 3: Shepherding with Purpose
Pastors and church leaders play a crucial role in the church's health and growth. They are called to lead and feed the flock, equipping the saints for ministry. This involves nurturing unity, teaching sound doctrine, and helping believers grow into maturity. The essential pastor knows to whom they belong, understands their identity in Christ, and is clear about their work assignment. They are tasked with nurturing the church's unity and maturity, ensuring that it stands firm against the challenges of the world. [29:10]
"Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you." (Hebrews 13:17, ESV)
Reflection: How can you support and encourage your church leaders in their mission to shepherd the congregation? Consider one specific action you can take this week.
Day 4: The Gospel's Transformative Power
The proclamation of the gospel is the remedy for a sin-sick society. It is through the gospel that we find redemption, reconciliation, and hope. The church's mission is to declare this good news to the world, bringing light to darkness. As believers, we are called to be ambassadors of Christ, sharing the message of salvation with those around us. This calling requires us to live out the gospel in our daily lives, demonstrating the love and grace of Christ to a world in need. [19:06]
"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek." (Romans 1:16, ESV)
Reflection: Who in your life needs to hear the gospel message? How can you intentionally share the love and hope of Christ with them this week?
Day 5: Stewarding Our Gifts
Like Chadwick Boseman, we are called to use all our gifts and talents for God's glory. Our ultimate goal is to stand before God, having fully utilized everything He has given us. This is our challenge and privilege as members of the body of Christ. Each believer is uniquely gifted to contribute to the church's mission, and it is through the faithful stewardship of these gifts that we honor God and serve others. [01:06:27]
"As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace." (1 Peter 4:10, ESV)
Reflection: What is one gift or talent you have been hesitant to use for God's glory? How can you begin to actively use it in service to others this week?
Quotes
Make no mistake about it. This is a transitional period. It is a odd, strange season. I am convinced that God is still in control. God is still on the throne and that God is even in the midst of this pandemic. He is speaking to us around the world. [00:00:25]
Although there is social distancing from one another, we're never disconnected from you. Thank you, God. Thank you for Pastor Small and the Greater New Jerusalem Baptist Church in Los Angeles. Thank you, God, for the Remnant Worship Center here in Jacksonville, Florida. [00:03:41]
Ephesians chapter 4, I'm reading from the English Standard Version, it records the word of our God to read this way, I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of a 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 there is one body, one spirit just as you are called to the one hope that belongs to your call one Lord, one faith, one baptism one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all but grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift grace was given to each one of us grace was given to each one of us therefore it says when he ascended on high he led a host of captives and he gave gifts to men in saying he ascended what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower regions the earth he who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens that he might feel all things and he gave the apostles the prophets, the evangelists the shepherds, the teachers to equip the saints for the work of ministry for building up the body of Christ until we all attain to the Lord Jesus Christ to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God to mature manhood to the measure of the statue of the fullness of Christ so that we may no longer be children tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine by human cunning by craftiness in deceitful schemes 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 this is God's word and I believe it to be so and I present it to you in that fashion [00:07:38]
The prescription for this sin -sick society is the proclamation of the gospel. Did you get that? God's remedy for this sin -sick society is the declaration, the heralding, the preaching, the promulgating of the gospel. [00:19:06]
God's plan is for us to live in unity and love with him and each other. The church is a verbal and visible gospel witness to the watching world. Our redemption, reconciliation, revelation, riches, ransom, and resurrection are all in Christ Jesus. [00:20:49]
There may be no agreement on buildings, bodies, or budgets. However, we all agree on one reality, that Jesus is Lord. In Christ, Jews and Gentiles are brought together. together and made one. [00:23:45]
It is because of Christ that we have unity unity within the body of Christ. Did you catch that? There can be no unity without Jesus. All that we sing, all that we preach, all that we do, all that we testify about, it's all about him. [00:25:34]
The impetus of our preaching and teaching is in the redemptive, finished work of Christ Jesus. The Lordship of Jesus Christ is a feature, focus, and functionality of all we say and do. Therefore, a pandemic cannot stop and will not stop the proclamation of God's word. [00:18:11]
The role of a pastor is sacred business just the other day we were hit with the news of the passing of Chadwick Bolson Wakanda but in my reading articles and seeing and news feeds, hearing the commentary from his peers in Hollywood and abroad, everyone seemingly has nothing but nice things to say about him. And as I look over his life and leaving here so young at 43, he leaves his family, falling victim to cancer. [01:00:58]
He was so pivotal and essential to the black community and to the acting community at large, but greater still, the last caption I saw says his goal was to stand before God one day and say to God, I've used all my talents. I've used all my gifts. [01:05:49]
May we, like Chadwick, live our lives and our roles as shepherds and teachers, to where when we ultimately stand before God at the end of the day, we'll be able to say, I used all my gifts. I used all my talents. I used everything you gave for me to it. I, I left full and I came back empty. [01:06:27]
That is my challenge to you pastor and to you greater than Jerusalem use all you have get that use all you have you cannot be all that God is calling you to be if not forever remember being a minister and supplying to the unity and the benefit of the entire body got that not everyone has the same position not everyone has the same role but everyone is in the body and all of us are taking our orders from the head who is Jesus Christ every joint supplying for every joint amen God has called us to unite in Christ and to share that message God be praised [01:07:19]
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