"The Spiritual Diversity of the Church"

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Sermon Notes
Sermon Series:  Ephesians
​Sermon Scripture:  Ephesians 4:7-12

The Grace of Diversity (4:7)

• Paul shifts the focus from “all” of us to _____________ of us.
  • The unity of the church is enriched by its _______________.
  • The church is one body, though its members are all _______________.

The Grace of Diversity (4:7) ​continued

• Paul shifts the focus from “all” of us to _____________ of us.
• This grace is not saving grace, but _______________ grace.
• This grace is for _________ Christians, not a select few.
• Spiritual gifts are freely given by Christ, not earned as a reward.
• Spiritual gifts are measured out by Christ, so your gift is important, no matter how small.
  • There is no reason for spiritual __________________.
  • There is no room for spiritual ___________________.
    • A person with a prominent, public gift has no reason for _______________.
    • A person with a quiet, supporting gift has no reason for _______________.

The Generosity of the King (4:8-10)

• Jesus won victory over his enemies and ascended to heaven to bless his people. (Ps. 68:18)
  • The King gives what he has _______________.
  • Because he was victorious, we are now _______________.
• Before Jesus went up to bless us, he came down to rescue us.
  • In the Incarnation, he came down to save us.
    • He came down to take on human _______________ and live a perfect life.
    • He came down to take on human _______________ and die a sacrificial death.
  • In the Ascension, he went up to supply us.
    • He rose from death and conquered the _______________.
    • He rose into the heavens to distribute spiritual _______________.
      • When you see gifts at work, you should adore Jesus who gave them.
      • When someone’s gifts bless you, you should see that as Jesus blessing you.
• As the ascended King, Jesus will fill all things.
  • He fills his people with his _____________________.
  • He fills his church with gifts.
  • He fills the universe with his _____________________.

The Gifts to the Church (4:11)

• The emphasis on these leaders is not on their office or title, but they are all ministers of the _________.
• Christ not only gave gifts to his people, but he also gave his people as gifts.
  • Apostles & Prophets: These are the _____________________.
  • Evangelists: These are the _____________________.
  • Shepherd-Teachers: These are the _____________________.

The Growth of the Body (4:12)

• Ministry belongs to the _____________________.
  • Pastors are not called to monopolize the ministry.
  • Pastors are called to _____________________ the ministry.
• Ministry is for building up the _____________.
  • Gifts are not ____________ to play with.
  • Gifts are _____________ to build with.
• Ministry is for the glory of _____________________. (1 Peter 4:10-11)