The Bond of Peace
The Bond of Peace
Ephesians 4:3
Outline:
I. Unity is a Gift from God's Spirit
A. Unity is not something we create but is given by the Holy Spirit
B. Unity is something believers are called to keep and preserve
C. Unity is given to us through spiritual realities (see Ephesians 4:4-6)
II. Unity is Kept by the Bond of Peace
A. We're surrounded by broken people who need the wholeness of peace
B. Peace with God and how it relates to peace with others
C. Peace is a bond that unites, as opposed to enmity that divides
III. Unity is Kept on a Relational Level by Hard Work
A. The need to strive like a gladiator to keep unity in relationships
B. Your actions should match your identity (see Ephesians 4:1)
C. Your spiritual unity should turn into relational unity
Application Questions:
1. How did the Holy Spirit illuminate or convict you of truth from this sermon?
2. Do you recognize the division in our world, our homes, our relationships, and the church today? How does it affect you personally?
3. How can you specifically apply the concept of unity being a gift from God's Spirit in your relationships with fellow believers? Are there any relationships that require healing or restoration?
4. Reflect on your recent actions and choices. Were there moments where you chose to be a slave to sin rather than righteousness?
5. Can you think of examples in your life where your actions did not align with your identity as a child of God? How can you make a conscious effort to match your actions with your Christian identity?
6. In what specific circumstances can you act as a peacemaker in your family, workplace, or church community?
7. Reflect on times when you've been hesitant to exert effort in striving for unity. What steps can you take to actively pursue unity and peace in those situations?
8. How can you encourage and support others in your community to actively seek unity and peace, both within the Church and in their interactions with the world? What role can you play in promoting unity on a broader scale?
9. Are there specific individuals in your life with whom you need to pursue reconciliation or unity?