What is the church? This is the question that we will spend our time answering this upcoming Sunday as we study the book of Ephesians and look at God’s plan and design for the local church. Too often, the question we ask is “why go to church?” when Paul would ask, “why would we not?”. In light of God’s institution of the church, Paul will repeatedly show us that the church is far more important than we often realize and should hold a great priority in our hearts for living out our Christian life.

 

Sermon Notes:

Main Idea: The local church is important to God and should be important to us.

  1. Body – The church is made of different but mutually dependent members.
    1. Application: Serve using your gifts.
  2. Family – The church has a shared identity and responsibility.
    1. Application: Love one another.
  3. Temple – The church is a place of worship where God’s presence uniquely dwells.
    1. Application: Come to church expectant to meet God.
  4. Bride – a) The church is exclusively and visibly committed to the Lord and b) The church joyfully obeys Christ’s sacrificial leadership
    1. Application: Follow Scripture.
  5. Embassy – The church is given both the privilege and authority of representing Christ on earth.
    1. Application: Be a member of a local church.