This past Sunday we were reminded about the importance and priority of the church. What a joy it is to preach a message that is already lived out by so many! I trust God used this sermon to stir fresh vision, commitment and faith in your hearts for the church. But please know that as a pastoral team we could not be more amazed and grateful for the many members of our church who are growing, serving, giving, evangelizing, extending care, extending love and growing in grace for the glory of God in the church. We hope this outline and these questions will serve you as you seek to apply God’s word to your life.
Remember: The Church is Worth Throwing Your Life Into
1) The church is worth throwing our lives into because the church is a part of God’s plan from eternity past to put His glory on display in the earth (Eph. 1:3-14; Eph. 2:11-22).
2) The church is worth throwing your life into because the church is extending the rule and reign of Christ on the earth and beyond (Eph. 1:22-23; Eph. 4:10).
3) The church is worth throwing your life into because this cosmic purpose of God through the church includes ordinary people like you and me (Eph. 4:7-32).
4) The church is worth throwing your life into because it is the place where the gospel is authenticated in real people in real life in a really fallen world (Eph. 4, 5, 6).
5) The church is worth throwing your life into because in the end, the church is going to win and Jesus is going to return to bring His bride home (Eph. 5 25-32).
Questions:
How is God’s glory on display in the church?
Based on point 1 and 2, in what ways do you believe the Lord wants to give you fresh vision for the church?
How does God use people in His plan through the church?
How do you think God wants to use you in the church? What gift(s) has the Spirit given you to be used for the building up of the body? What is one way you can seek to use that gift this week?
Are there ways that you are holding back on your commitment to the church or sitting on the sidelines? What first step of change do you believe the Lord is calling you to?
The church is the Bride of Christ, the one He loves and is passionate about; and the one for whom He is returning. How would you evaluate your love for and passion for that which Christ is passionate about?
