Avoiding Division in the Body of Christ
Ephesians 4:1-6 · November 3
In this message titled “Avoiding Division in the Body of Christ,” teacher Robert Furrow explores the importance of unity among Christians. He emphasizes our shared identity in Christ as the foundation for harmony, drawing from the book of Ephesians and highlighting key points on living a worthy life, the power of unity, and understanding our collective identity in the body of Christ. Furrow encourages listeners to embrace humility, gentleness, and love, advocating for unity while celebrating diversity within the faith community. The message concludes with a call to pursue unity and live in love, fostering a stronger connection among believers.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction (Ephesians 4:1)
01:25 "We are in this together" (Ephesians 2:15-16)
05:32 Three points
06:09 Point #1 - Walk Worthy: A Life Reflecting Our New Identity (Ephesians 4:1)
07:15 Three things in verse 1 - #1 I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord
11:22 Life is full of changes and, as Christians, we must adapt for the sake of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:14-15)
12:47 A quote from John Stott
13:21 Three things in verse 1 - #2 A worthy life (Ephesians 5:8-10; Ephesians 5:15-16)
14:46 Three things in verse 1 - #3 The calling we have received
16:07 God chose us, called us, and set us apart for His purpose (2 Timothy 1:9; Romans 8:28)
17:09 A quote from Billy Graham
17:50 Point #2 - The Power of Unity: A Force for Good (Ephesians 4:2-3)
18:37 Three things in verses 2-3 - #1 Embracing Humility: The Foundation of Unity (Philippians 2:3-4; Hebrews 12:14)
21:40 Make sure we can identify arrogance in us (Proverbs 11:2)
22:09 Three things in verses 2-3 - #2 We must possess gentleness and patience (2 Timothy 2:24-25)
22:50 A quote from J.C. Ryle
22:59 Long-suffering is patience (Galatians 6:9)
23:36 Three things in verses 2-3 - #3 The Power of Unity: A Force For Good (Ephesians 4:3; John 14:27)
24:22 A quote from Timothy Keller
24:42 Passages on Unity (1 Corinthians 12:12; John 13:34-35)
25:48 Point #3 - There Is One Body: Understanding Our Shared Identity (Ephesians 4:4-6)
30:37 Three things in verses 4-6 - #1 The Unifying Power of the Holy Spirit: One Body, One Spirit (Romans 5:1-2)
33:47 Three things in verses 4-6 - #2 United in Belief: One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism (Ephesians 4:5)
34:01 Our unity begins with acknowledging Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior (Galatians 3:26-27)
37:54 Our shared faith in Jesus Christ provides a common foundation for our unity (Romans 5:1; Galatians 3:27)
38:26 Three things in verses 4-6 - #3 One God and Father: The Source of Our Unity (Ephesians 4:6)
39:02 The source of our unity is God Himself (Colossians 3:12)
40:03 Final quote from John Stott
40:21 Application - Celebrate your shared identity: rejoice in the fact that you are part of the body of Christ, united in faith and hope
41:14 Embrace Diversity
41:26 Live in Love
42:19 Pursue Unity
43:17 Closing prayer
