Through this fast we are definitely hearing God talk about our walk. We are a tree in His Great Garden. We read the Bible and the seeds penetrate our tree and help us. It keeps light in the house. We talk to the creator and we receive the nourishment from Jesus. We listen to Holy Spirit and obey and we keep the rivers of living water flowing within our tree! It all works together! We also learned this week to keep our heart humble by accepting his correction and rebuke to keep our repentance going. It's all about posture before the King! Today we hear from Paul talk to the church about how to walk out this Christian walk. Remember - KISS - keep it simple stupid! LOL (marketing term). Don't get so caught up in mystical knowledge and books and listening to every wind of doctrine by all these people on the internet feeding you garbage. Keep it simple. The simple gospel.
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Jesus died for our sins
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We forgive all as He forgave us
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We walk like Jesus
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lay hands on the sick that they shall recover
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cast out demons
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visit the sick and poor and help
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speak truth
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bring people to the kingdom
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Don't leave your first love!
We don't know how much time we have left - it's not about quantity, it is about quality! Let's make the most of it!
Our text is Ephesians 4
Ephesians 4 means that Christians should live out their faith through unity, spiritual growth, and a transformed lifestyle that reflects Jesus. [1, 2]
The chapter divides into two main themes: Christian unity and the new life. [1]
1. Unity in the Body of Christ (Verses 1–16)
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A Worthy Life: Paul urges believers to live in a way that matches their calling, marked by humility, gentleness, patience, and love.
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Spiritual Oneness: He emphasizes that the church is united by "one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism".
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Diverse Gifts: Christ gives leaders (apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers) to equip regular believers to do ministry and build up the church toward spiritual maturity. [1, 2, 3]
2. The Old Self vs. The New Self (Verses 17–32)
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Transformation: Believers are told to "put off" their old, sinful lifestyle and "put on" a new self created to be like God in righteousness and holiness. [1, 2]
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Practical Changes: Paul gives direct instructions for daily life:
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Stop lying and speak the truth.
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Deal with anger quickly instead of letting it lead to sin.
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Stop stealing and do honest work to help others.
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Avoid harmful speech and instead use words to build people up. [1, 2]
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Forgiveness: Christians are commanded to be kind and compassionate, forgiving each other just as God forgave them through Christ
