Sermon on It is finished: The Completeness of Christ's Work John 19:30

 ³⁰ When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.  John 19:30

"It Is Finished: The Completeness of Christ's Work"

We to reflect on one of the most profound and powerful statements made by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, as He hung on the cross. The words "It is finished" found in John 19:30 signify the culmination of His redemptive work on our behalf. In this sermon, we will explore the significance of this statement in four key aspects of our faith.

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I. It is finished: The Complete Sacrifice of Jesus Is Finished (John 19:30)

The first aspect we must grasp is that the complete sacrifice of Jesus is finished. When Jesus uttered these words, He declared that He had fulfilled the purpose for which He came to earth. He willingly gave His life as the Lamb of God to atone for our sins. In doing so, He accomplished what the Old Testament sacrificial system could never achieve—a perfect and complete sacrifice that satisfied the righteous demands of God's justice.

II. It is finished: The Payment for Our Sins Is Finished (2 Corinthians 5:21)

The second aspect of "It is finished" is the payment for our sins. In 2 Corinthians 5:21, the Apostle Paul reminds us that Jesus, who knew no sin, became sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. At the cross, Jesus bore the weight of our sins and paid the penalty in full. His finished work secured our forgiveness and reconciliation with God. We are now declared righteous through faith in Him.

III. It is finished: The Victory over Sin and Death Is Accomplished (1 Corinthians 15:54-57)

The third dimension of Jesus' declaration is the accomplishment of victory over sin and death. In 1 Corinthians 15:54-57, Paul triumphantly exclaims that death has been swallowed up in victory through Jesus Christ. Christ's resurrection is the seal of His victory over sin and the grave. As believers, we no longer need to fear the power of sin or death, for Christ's work on the cross assures us of eternal life and victory over the forces of darkness.

IV. It is finished: The Abolition of the System of Sacrifices Is Accomplished (Hebrews 10:11-14)

Lastly, "It is finished" signifies the abolition of the system of sacrifices. In Hebrews 10:11-14, we are reminded that the Levitical sacrifices were offered continually, but Jesus offered Himself once for all. His sacrifice was so complete that it rendered all other sacrifices obsolete. Through His blood, we have access to the presence of God, and our sins are remembered no more. Jesus' finished work opened the way for a new covenant of grace and redemption.

V. It is finished: Access to the Presence of God Is Finished (Hebrews 10:19-22)

The first aspect we must understand is that through Jesus' work on the cross, access to the presence of God is finished. In Hebrews 10:19-22, we are told that because of the blood of Jesus, we can now enter the Most Holy Place with confidence. In the Old Testament, the high priest could only enter this sacred space once a year, but through Christ's sacrifice, we have constant access to God's presence. Jesus has torn down the barrier of sin that separated us from God, allowing us to draw near to Him in worship and prayer.

VI. It is finished: Redemption and Forgiveness of Sins Is Accomplished (Ephesians 1:7)

The second aspect of "It is finished" is the accomplishment of redemption and forgiveness of sins. Ephesians 1:7 reminds us that in Christ, we have redemption through His blood and the forgiveness of our sins. Through His sacrificial death, Jesus paid the price to free us from the bondage of sin and reconcile us to God. Our sins, once a heavy burden, have been completely forgiven. This forgiveness is not temporary but permanent, and it is through faith in Christ.

VII. It is finished: The Sufficiency of God's Grace Is Finished (2 Corinthians 12:9)

The third dimension of Jesus' declaration is the sufficiency of God's grace. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, the Apostle Paul writes about how God's grace is sufficient for all our weaknesses and struggles. It is in our weaknesses that God's power is made perfect. Through Jesus' finished work on the cross, we have access to an abundance of grace that empowers us to overcome sin, face trials, and find strength in our weaknesses. We no longer need to rely on our own strength, for God's grace is more than enough.

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3. Sermon on New Beginning: Embracing Repentance and Restoration

Conclusion:

The words "It is finished" spoken by Jesus on the cross are a declaration of the completeness and finality of His work of salvation. His sacrifice is perfect, our sins are paid for, victory over sin and death is assured, and the old system of sacrifices is no longer needed. As we contemplate the depth of these words, may we respond with gratitude, faith, and a renewed commitment to live in the light of Christ's finished work. It is through Him that we find hope, forgiveness, and eternal life.  

"It is finished" spoken by Jesus on the cross are a declaration of the completeness and finality of His redemptive work. Through Him, we have access to the presence of God, redemption and forgiveness of sins, and the sufficiency of God's grace. As we meditate on these words, may we be filled with awe and gratitude for what Christ has accomplished for us. Let us approach God with confidence, knowing that our sins are forgiven, and His grace is more than sufficient to sustain us in every circumstance. In the name of Jesus, amen.

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Sermon on Mount Beatitudes: Keys to a Blessed Life Matthew 5:3-11.

 "The Beatitudes: Keys to a Blessed Life"

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus delivered a profound message that continues to echo through time—the Beatitudes. These eight blessings unveil the path to a truly blessed life. Let's embark on a journey through the Beatitudes, discovering their timeless wisdom and relevance for us today.

The Mount of Beatitudes:

• Is located 2½ miles northeast of Tabgha.
• Rises some 300 feet above the Sea of Galilee (which is itself 690 feetbelow sea level)
• Commands a beautiful view of the Sea of Galilee and the surroundingarea.Site where Jesus delivered the famous Sermon on the Mount. Matthew 5 -7

While the beatitudes tell us what our rewards will be if we live a life in accord with God we needto be cautious in our understanding of the word “blessed.” In the beatitudes, “blessed” shouldnot be equated with a particular emotion. To be blessed is not necessarily to feel good. Thebiblical understanding of being blessed is to be set aside for a specific purpose. It is to know thatyou are doing something right and in accord with God and to persevere in the midst of what maynot always feel like blessedness or happiness

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I. Blessed are the Poor in Spirit (Matthew 5:3)

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."

• To be "poor in spirit" means recognizing our spiritual poverty and dependence on God.
• Embracing humility and acknowledging our need for God's grace opens the door to the kingdom of heaven.
• We find true riches in God's presence when we release our pride and self-sufficiency.

II. Blessed are Those Who Mourn (Matthew 5:4)

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."

• Mourning is a natural response to sin, suffering, and brokenness in the world.
• Jesus promises comfort to those who grieve, assuring us that He walks with us through our pain.
• Through mourning, we find healing and experience the deep comfort of God's presence.

III. Blessed are the Meek (Matthew 5:5)

"Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth."

• Meekness is not weakness; it's strength under control, an attitude of humility and gentleness.
• Meekness allows us to navigate conflicts with grace and poise.
• The meek inherit not just a physical land but the blessings and promises of God's kingdom.

IV. Blessed are Those Who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness (Matthew 5:6)

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied."

• This beatitude reveals a deep craving for God's righteousness and justice.
• Pursuing righteousness means aligning our lives with God's moral standards.
• Those who earnestly seek righteousness find satisfaction in God's presence and His righteousness imparted to them.

V. Blessed are the Merciful (Matthew 5:7)

"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy."

• Mercy is not merely feeling compassion; it's compassion in action.
• Showing mercy means extending forgiveness, kindness, and love even to the undeserving.
• As we show mercy to others, we open ourselves to the abundant mercy of God.

VI. Blessed are the Pure in Heart (Matthew 5:8)

"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God."

• A pure heart is one free from hypocrisy and sin, devoted to God's will.
• Such hearts experience a deep intimacy with God, seeing Him in all aspects of life.
• Purity of heart allows us to recognize God's presence and guidance.

VII. Blessed are the Peacemakers (Matthew 5:9)

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God."

• Peacemakers work toward reconciliation and harmony.
• By reconciling others and fostering peace, we reflect the character of God.
• As children of God, we're called to be agents of peace in a world in need of it.

VIII. Blessed are those who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness (Matthew 5:10)

"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."

• Living righteously may bring opposition and persecution.
• Persecution for righteousness aligns us with the suffering of Christ.
• In persecution, we find our citizenship in the eternal kingdom of heaven.

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Conclusion:

The Beatitudes are a roadmap to a blessed life. They challenge us to recognize our need for God, embrace humility, find comfort in times of sorrow, display meekness and gentleness, and hunger for God's righteousness. In living out these principles, we discover the abundant life Jesus promised—a life blessed by God's presence and His eternal kingdom.

The Beatitudes are a divine invitation to embrace a life characterized by mercy, purity, peacemaking, and righteousness, even in the face of persecution. As we live out these principles, we experience the blessedness of a life that reflects the heart of Jesus Christ.

Let us remember that these blessings are not mere words; they are a call to action. May we be merciful, strive for purity of heart, actively seek peace, and stand strong in our righteousness, even when facing persecution. In doing so, we embody the very nature of Christ and bring His blessings to a world in need.

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Sermon on Revival: 7 signs of its manifestation

Sermon on Revival: 7 signs of its manifestation

A promise that has the power to transform lives and nations—the promise of revival. In 2 Chronicles 7:14, God speaks these words of hope and renewal: "If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land." Let's unpack this promise of revival and understand how it can rejuvenate our lives and communities.

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I. The Need to Seek God (Psalm 63:1)..

Revival begins with a deep, earnest seeking of God. In Psalm 63:1, David writes, "O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water." To experience revival, we must yearn for God's presence with a fervor that surpasses all else. It's a hunger for His righteousness, an insatiable desire to know Him intimately.

God told us what he wants

• Worship in spirit and truth – John 4:24
• To worship Him is to love Him – heart, soul, mind, strength – Mark 12:30
• If you love me, you will keep my commandments - John 14:15

II. The Holy Spirit as the Agent of Revival (Acts 2:1-4)

The book of Acts reveals how the Holy Spirit ignites revival. In Acts 2:1-4, the Spirit descends on the believers at Pentecost, empowering them for an extraordinary mission. Revival is not a human achievement but a divine work of the Spirit. When we yield to the Holy Spirit, we experience transformation and empowerment to be Christ's witnesses.

III. Repentance and Sanctification as Signs of Revival (1 Peter 1:15-16)

Revival demands repentance—a turning away from sinful ways and a turning toward God's holiness. 1 Peter 1:15-16 urges us, "But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct." Revival leads us to sanctification, a process of becoming more like Christ. It's a call to purity and righteous living, evident in our thoughts, words, and actions.

• Jesus changes our status (Ephesians 2:1, 5). (Luke 23:30)
• Jesus changes our conduct (Ephesians 2:2-3,10 1 Peter 4:4).
• Jesus changes our destiny (Ephesians 2:5-8)

IV. Prayer as a Key to Revival (2 Chronicles 7:14)

Prayer is the heart of revival. In 2 Chronicles 7:14, God places it at the center of His promise. "If my people... pray and seek my face," He declares. Revival begins on our knees, in fervent and persistent prayer. It's the place where we confess sins, seek God's guidance, and intercede for others. Prayer aligns our hearts with God's will and prepares us to receive His healing and forgiveness.

V. The Word of God as Spiritual Food for Revival (Jeremiah 15:16)

The Word of God is our spiritual nourishment. Jeremiah 15:16 says, "Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart." In times of revival, the Word comes alive. It fuels our hunger for righteousness and guides us toward God's truth. Revival is marked by an insatiable appetite for God's Word, leading us to greater spiritual depths.

• Trust in the Word of God (Amos 7:10-16 1 Peter 4:11; Matthew 24:35; John 10:35).
• Courage to speak the Word of God (Amos 7:15-16 Acts 4:20).
• Frankness to speak the Word of God as revealed (Amos 7:17).

VI. Communion and Love in the Church as Signs of Revival (Acts 2:42-47)

Acts 2:42-47 paints a vivid picture of the early church—a community characterized by devotion to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer. Communion and love within the church are unmistakable signs of revival. Revival fosters a sense of unity, care, and sharing among believers. It's a time when selflessness replaces selfishness, and the love of Christ binds us together.

A. Our love for our brothers (Romans 12:4-16)

• Use your gifts to bless them (vs. 4-8).
• Love is more than words, but involves actions (vs. 9-16)

VII. The Impact of Revival on Evangelization (Acts 4:31)

Acts 4:31 illustrates the power of revival in evangelization: "And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness." Revival sets hearts on fire for spreading the gospel. It emboldens us to share the good news of Christ's salvation with others, leading to the transformation of lives and communities.

• 1. Proclaim – Luke 8:39.
• 2. Preach – Mark 16:15.
• 3. Present – 1 Corinthians 9:18.
• 4. Declare – 1 Corinthians 15:1.
• 5. Communicate – Galatians 2:2.
• 6. Spread the word – Ephesians 6:19.
• 7. Defend – Philippians 1:17.
• 8. Speak – 1 Thessalonians 2:2.
• 9. Explain – Luke 24:27.
• 10. Stream – 1 Thessalonians 2:8

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Conclusion:

The promise of revival is an invitation from God to experience His transformative power. As we seek Him earnestly, yield to the Holy Spirit, repent, and sanctify our lives, and engage in fervent prayer, we position ourselves to receive the revival that God promises. Revival is not merely an event; it's a lifelong journey of spiritual awakening and renewal. 

The promise of revival is a dynamic and transformative experience. As we feast on God's Word, nurture love and communion within the church, and allow the Holy Spirit to empower us for evangelization, we position ourselves for the revival God eagerly offers. Revival begins with us but has a ripple effect that touches every corner of our lives and extends outward to impact the world. May we embrace this promise with open hearts and open hands, inviting God to breathe life and renewal into our souls and the world around us.

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Sermon on Family: Building a Strong Christian Family

 "Building a Strong Christian Family"

The beauty and significance of the Christian family. In a world filled with challenges and distractions, our families can serve as strong foundations of faith, love, and growth. Let's dive into the Scriptures to understand how God designed and empowers our families.

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I. God Instituted the Family (Genesis 2:24)

The Christian family finds its roots in God's divine plan. In Genesis 2:24, we read, "Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh." God's intention from the beginning was to create a sacred union within the family.

II. The Role of Husband and Wife (Ephesians 5:22-33)

God has ordained specific roles for husbands and wives within the family. Ephesians 5:22-33 beautifully outlines the mutual respect, love, and submission that should characterize this relationship. Husbands are called to love their wives sacrificially, while wives are encouraged to submit to their husbands in love.

• Always speak the truth in love Eph 4:15
• Don't talk bad things, just build up Eph 4:29
• Spouses with a Positive Attitude Philippians 4:8; 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
• Do I have a positive attitude toward resolving our conflict? Ephesians 4:29; Colossians 4:6

III. Children are Educated within the Family (Proverbs 22:6, Ephesians 6:4)

Parents play a crucial role in the spiritual upbringing and education of their children. Proverbs 22:6 instructs us to "train up a child in the way he should go." Ephesians 6:4 reminds fathers to bring up their children in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. The family is where faith is nurtured and passed down through generations.

• Raise children in the training and admonition of the Lord. Ephesians 6:4
• Don't provoke anger in the family. (Ephesians 6:4; Colossians 3:21; Deuteronomy 6:1-2).
• Train your children in the path they should follow, in the path of biblical wisdom, integrity, teachings, and commandments. Even when they get older, they don't move away from them. (Proverbs 22:6; 4:10-12; 7:1-3; 20:7; 1:8-9)
• Parents must discipline their children with the rod while there is hope. Otherwise, they may show hatred towards their children. (Proverbs 13:24; 19:18; 22:15; 29:15, 17)

IV. Respect and Love as Foundations of the Family (Ephesians 5:33)

Respect and love are the cornerstones of a Christian family. Ephesians 5:33 emphasizes mutual respect between spouses. When respect and love are practiced daily, they create an environment where relationships flourish and Christ's love is evident.

• Family with room to grow Luke 2:52
• Family that knows how to acquire wisdom Pv 4: 1-10; Tg. 1:5
• Respect for authority in the Family Rm 13: 1-7; Eph 6:1
• Love for God above all else Matthew 10:37-39

V. A Family that Serves God (Joshua 24:15)

A Christian family should be a place where God is honored and served. Joshua 24:15 presents a powerful challenge: "But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." When families commit to serving God together, they become beacons of faith in their communities.

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Conclusion:

The Christian family is a sacred institution designed by God to reflect His love and glory. As we follow God's design, embracing our roles, nurturing our children, practicing respect and love, and serving the Lord together, our families become testimonies of faith. Let us remember that God is at the center of our Christian families, guiding, blessing, and strengthening us every step of the way.

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Sermon on New Beginning: Embracing Repentance and Restoration

 "New Beginning: Embracing Repentance and Restoration"

The profound concept of a new beginning. Life often presents us with moments where we need a fresh start, a clean slate. Fortunately, as believers, we find our source of renewal in the loving arms of our Heavenly Father. Let's delve into this theme through the lens of Scripture.

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I. The New Beginning comes from Repentance and Forgiveness (1 John 1:9)

Repentance is the gateway to a new beginning. When we acknowledge our sins, turn away from them, and seek God's forgiveness, we experience the cleansing and refreshing power of His grace. As 1 John 1:9 tells us, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

• Three thousand changed their minds, hearts and wills on the day of Pentecost and immediately gave evidence of repentance (Acts 2:41-47).
• Saul of Tarsus experienced repentance when he encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus and gave evidence of repentance (Acts 9:1-22).
• Cornelius, his family and friends repented when they heard the gospel preached by Simon Peter, and evidence of repentance followed (Acts 10:24-48).
• The Philippian jailer and his house repented when they were witnessed by Paul and Silas; evidence of repentance followed (Acts 16:26-34).

II. The New Beginning comes with the Renewal of the Mind (Romans 12:2)

Transformation begins in the mind. When we allow God's Word to renew our thoughts and perspectives, we experience a profound shift in our lives. Romans 12:2 encourages us, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind." A renewed mind sets the stage for a transformed life.

Be renewed in spirit (EF 4:23)

It is no secret that Christians must undergo a transformation (metamorphosis) of the world. Paul in this very well-known passage is describing what this transformation involves (renewing our mind) and what it looks like. It changes the way we see things, the way we live and the way we behave.

• Renew my mind every day by deciding to give myself to God Romans 12:1 II Corinthians 10:5 Ephesians 4:1
• Renew my mind every day by deciding on paths and wisdom Romans 12:2 I Corinthians 3:19• James 3:13-16
• Renew my mind every day by deciding to discern what God's will is Romans 12:2 Matthew 7:21 Hebrews 11:6 II Timothy 2:15

III. The New Beginning comes from Grace (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Our new beginnings are not dependent on our strength but on God's grace. In our weakness, God's grace is sufficient to carry us through. As 2 Corinthians 12:9 reminds us, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." God's grace empowers us to overcome obstacles and embrace new beginnings.

• We must appreciate God's grace and mercy (Hos. 11:8; John 1:16; Romans 5:20).
• The grace of God has appeared to all men (Titus 2:11).

IV. The New Beginning comes from Faith (Hebrews 11:1)

Faith is the catalyst for new beginnings. When we trust God's promises and step out in faith, we open ourselves to His transformative work. Hebrews 11:1 tells us, "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." Faith fuels our journey toward new beginnings.

• We need to focus on repentance and faith - Acts 20:21
• You are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. Galatians

V. The New Beginning Restores Identity (Ephesians 2:10)

In Christ, we discover our true identity. Ephesians 2:10 beautifully states, "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." A new beginning restores our sense of purpose and identity as children of God.

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Conclusion:

A new beginning is not just a chance to start over; it's an opportunity for God to transform us, renew our minds, and restore our identity. It comes through repentance, forgiveness, grace, faith, and the power of God's Word. As we embrace these truths, may we walk confidently in the new beginnings that God graciously provides. Remember, in Christ, every day can be a fresh start.

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Sermon on Mothers Day: Honoring Mothers of Faith

 "Honoring Mothers of Faith"

We celebrate Mother's Day, we turn our attention to some remarkable women in the Bible who exemplify the virtues of motherhood. These women faced extraordinary circumstances and challenges, yet they stood strong in faith. Let's explore their stories and draw inspiration for our own lives.

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I. Sarah: The Promised Mother (Genesis 21:1-7)

Sarah's story teaches us about God's faithfulness to His promises. Despite her old age and initial doubt, Sarah became a mother through God's miraculous intervention. Her faith reminds us that God's timing is perfect, and His promises are always fulfilled.

II. Rebekah: A Mother Who Prayed (Genesis 25:21)

Rebekah faced the challenge of infertility, a common struggle even today. What sets her apart is her fervent prayer. She sought the Lord's guidance and was blessed with twins, Jacob and Esau. Rebekah teaches us the power of persistent prayer in our own trials.

III. Jochebed: The Mother of Moses (Exodus 2:1-10)

Jochebed's story is one of courage and sacrifice. She defied Pharaoh's orders to save her son, Moses, placing him in a basket in the Nile. Her trust in God's providence and willingness to let go when necessary are lessons in surrendering our loved ones to God's care.

IV. Hannah: The Mother of Samuel (1 Samuel 1:27-28)

Hannah's story highlights the pain of infertility and the depth of her longing for a child. Her heartfelt prayer at the tabernacle led to the birth of Samuel, whom she dedicated to God's service. Hannah reminds us that God hears our deepest desires and responds to our sincere prayers.

V. Mary: The Mother of Jesus (Luke 2:19)

Mary's story is the most remarkable of all. She was chosen to bear the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ. Her humility, obedience, and unwavering faith serve as a model for all believers. Mary treasured the moments of her motherhood in her heart, reminding us to cherish the precious moments in our own lives.

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Conclusion:

As we celebrate Mother's Day, let's remember and honor the mothers in our lives. Let's also draw inspiration from the faith and resilience of these biblical mothers: Sarah, Rebekah, Jochebed, Hannah, and Mary. Their stories remind us that in the midst of challenges and uncertainties, faith in God can lead to remarkable blessings. May we, like them, trust in God's faithfulness and pray with persistence, knowing that He is with us in every season of life.

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Sermon on Ephesians 4: The Building the Church

 "The Building of the Church: United in Purpose"

The divine blueprint for building the Church. It's a blueprint centered on unity, spiritual gifts, ministerial roles, and spiritual maturity. As we study Ephesians 4:3-13, let's learn how each of us plays a vital role in constructing God's Church.

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I. The Call to Unity in the Church (Ephesians 4:3)

Ephesians 4:3 reminds us of the importance of maintaining unity in the Church through the bond of peace. Unity is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of love and understanding. It's a reflection of our oneness in Christ and a testimony to the world of God's transformative power.

II. Spiritual Gifts for Building the Church (Ephesians 4:7-8)

Ephesians 4:7-8 tells us that each of us has received a measure of grace through Christ's gifts. These spiritual gifts are diverse and designed to equip us for service. They are not for our glory but for the building up of the Church. We must recognize, nurture, and use these gifts to fulfill our roles in the body of Christ.

III. The Purpose of Ministerial Gifts (Ephesians 4:12)

In Ephesians 4:12, we discover that God has appointed apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers for a specific purpose: "to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ." These roles exist to empower and guide us, not to control us. They exist to help us grow in Christ and fulfill our callings.

• A godly Church wants leaders to seek the good of the Church (1 Peter 5:1-3 Ezekiel 34:2).
• A godly Church wants leaders to know the Word of God (1 Timothy 3:2, 6 Titus 1:9-11).
• A godly Church wants leaders to communicate with the Church (Genesis 11:6).
• A godly church wants leaders who lead and not just direct (Matthew 23:1-3 1 Peter 5:3).
• A godly Church wants leaders to serve as shepherds, not just administrators (Acts 20:28 1 Peter 5:2).
• A godly church wants leaders to recognize and utilize the church's talents (Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 12)

IV. Spiritual Maturity (Ephesians 4:13)

Ephesians 4:13 reveals the ultimate goal: "until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ." Our unity, spiritual gifts, and ministry roles are meant to lead us to spiritual maturity, mirroring the character of Christ.

V. The Renewing of the Mind (Ephesians 4:23)

Ephesians 4:23 emphasizes the renewal of the mind as a crucial component of building the Church. As individuals, we must continually align our thoughts with God's truth. A renewed mind brings about transformed behavior and fosters unity within the body of Christ.

VI. The Need for Truth and Love (Ephesians 4:15)

In Ephesians 4:15, we are called to speak the truth in love. Truth without love can be harsh, and love without truth can be shallow. To build a thriving Church, we must combine the two. Speaking the truth in love creates an environment where growth and maturity can flourish.

VII. Avoiding Sin and Wrath (Ephesians 4:26-27)

Ephesians 4:26-27 warns against letting anger fester and lead to sin. Unresolved anger can damage the unity of the Church. As we build God's community, we must address conflicts promptly, seek reconciliation, and avoid giving a foothold to the enemy.

VIII. The Call to Kindness and Forgiveness (Ephesians 4:32)

Ephesians 4:32 calls us to be kind and forgiving, just as God in Christ forgave us. Kindness and forgiveness are the adhesive that holds the Church together. In a world often marked by bitterness and division, our acts of kindness and forgiveness stand as powerful testimonies to God's grace.

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Conclusion:

Building the Church isn't the work of a select few; it's a collaborative effort rooted in unity, empowered by spiritual gifts, guided by ministerial roles, and leading to spiritual maturity. Each member has a crucial role in this divine construction project.

Let us embrace unity, discover and utilize our spiritual gifts, respect ministerial roles, and commit to growing in Christ's likeness. As we do, we will see God's Church flourish, and the world will witness His transforming power

Building the Church isn't just about physical structures; it's about constructing a community of transformed individuals who reflect God's truth, love, and forgiveness. As we renew our minds, speak the truth in love, address conflicts, and extend kindness and forgiveness, we actively participate in building a Church that stands as a beacon of hope in a broken world.

Let us commit to this sacred task, knowing that, through Christ, we are empowered to be a Church that exemplifies unity, love, and grace.

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