Built Together: A Living Temple Made of Broken People (2)

Preliminary:

Invite to Ephesians 2.

Thanks for songs, testimonies etc

We will be reading Ephesians 2:19-22.

Read: Eph. 2:19-22

Ephesians 2:19–22 KJV 1900

19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

Review:

Week 1: "From Death to Life: The Power of God’s Grace”

Week 2: "Saved by Grace: The Gift of God”

Week 3: "One in Christ: From Separation to Reconciliation”

Last Week: “Built Together: A Living Temple Made of Broken People”

What we discussed:

1. Citizenship in God’s Kingdom (v.19a) Ephesians 2:19 “19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;”

Strangers to Saints - There has been a transition from strangers to citizens in God’s kingdom.

Aliens to Associates - No longer alienated, but embraced as fellow citizens.

this change in status encompasses both legal standing and familial belonging

2. Community in God’s Kingdom (Eph. 2:19b) Ephesians 2:19 “19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;”

Legal Standing: This refers to the Gentiles' previous exclusion from the covenants and promises bestowed upon Israel. They were "strangers to the covenants of promise," residing outside the boundaries of God's chosen nation

This exclusion carried significant implications, limiting their access to God's blessings and placing them in a disadvantageous position spiritually.

However, through Christ's work of reconciliation, this legal barrier is shattered. The dividing wall of hostility, rooted in the Law and its ordinances, is abolished

Gentiles are no longer bound by these regulations or subject to the same judgment. They are granted "citizenship" in God's kingdom, implying equal standing before God and access to the privileges enjoyed by his people

Paul begins to change the metaphor from the political realm or legal standing to that of the family

Familial Belonging: While legal standing emphasizes the objective change in status, familial belonging captures the subjective experience of being welcomed into God's family. Gentiles transition from being "strangers and foreigners" to becoming "members of God's household" – a metaphor rich with connotations of intimacy, love, and belonging

This shift is emphasized through various familial terms: Ephesians 2:19 “19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;”

Fellow Citizens with the Saints: This phrase underscores their inclusion within the community of God's people, implying shared privileges and responsibilities

Household of God: This imagery portrays the Church as God's dwelling place, where believers are united as a family under his care and provision

“members of God’s household.” The term oikeios (GK 3858)—used only here and in 1 Timothy 5:8 (“immediate family”) and Galatians 6:10—refers to “persons who are related by kinship or circumstances and form a closely knit group, members of a household” (BDAG, 694). No longer outsiders, not guests or even distant relatives, Gentiles now enjoy full membership in God’s immediate family or household.

At the grocery store, in the dairy and refrigerated goods you will find containers of delicious looking Greek Yogurt with this name “OIKOS” while I’m not sure they are attempting to be Biblical they are using the same concept

They’re reflecting the idea of something that is wholesome and homely, much like the traditional Greek yogurt made in households for centuries

The story of **Onesimus** in the book of **Philemon** is a beautiful and profound illustration of how a relationship can shift from one of legal obligation to familial love, mirroring the biblical concept of **οἰκεῖος (oikeios)**—moving from the position of a servant or outsider to that of a beloved member of God’s household.

The Background:

**Onesimus** was a slave belonging to a wealthy Christian named **Philemon**. At some point, Onesimus ran away from Philemon, which would have been a serious offense under Roman law. Some scholars suggest that Onesimus may have stolen something from Philemon as he fled (Philemon 1:18). In Roman culture, a runaway slave would have been considered property, and harsh punishment, even death, could await someone in Onesimus' situation.

After running away, Onesimus encountered the apostle **Paul**, who was in prison at the time. It is here that Onesimus' life changed. Under Paul's guidance, Onesimus became a Christian and started serving Paul while he was imprisoned. His new relationship with Christ transformed him from a mere slave into a "brother" in the Lord.

### From Legal to Familial:

Paul writes a personal letter to Philemon, which is preserved as the book of Philemon, urging Philemon not just to take back Onesimus but to receive him **“no longer as a slave, but more than a slave—as a dear brother”** (Philemon 1:16). This is a significant shift. Paul is advocating for a change in Onesimus' legal status: from a slave to something far more intimate—a brother in the faith, someone who now belongs within the family of God.

- **Legally**, Onesimus was still a slave. Philemon had the right to punish him severely for running away.

- **Relationally**, however, Paul urges Philemon to treat Onesimus as **οἰκεῖος (oikeios)**—as someone who is not merely property but part of the family. This reflects the deep intimacy and belonging that Christians share in God’s household, where former divisions such as slave and free, or master and servant, no longer define relationships (Galatians 3:28).

### Paul’s Plea:

Paul's letter makes a personal appeal, showing how the gospel redefines human relationships. In **Philemon 1:17**, Paul says, "If you consider me your partner, **welcome him as you would welcome me**." Paul advocates for Onesimus to be treated with the same love, respect, and intimacy that Philemon would show to Paul himself, someone Philemon holds in high esteem. The relationship is now based on the shared bond of faith, not on social or legal status.

Paul even offers to pay any debt Onesimus might owe to Philemon (Philemon 1:18-19), showing his deep investment in Onesimus' future and standing within the family of God. In a way, this also reflects Christ’s work in taking on our debts to reconcile us to God and bring us into His household.

### The Picture of Belonging:

Onesimus’ transformation from a runaway slave to a “brother” is a perfect illustration of **οἰκεῖος**—he goes from being an outsider, bound by legal and social obligations, to a full, intimate member of the Christian community, embraced as part of God’s family. This story paints a vivid picture of how in Christ, we move from being alienated, bound by sin or social constraints, to being beloved members of God’s household, where intimacy and relationship define our place, not our past or legal status.

In essence, legal standing speaks to the Gentiles' justification – their being declared righteous in God's sight. Familial belonging, on the other hand, points to their adoption – their being brought into God's family and experiencing his love as a Father.

These are part of the great Wesleyan soteriology, the new birth is a transformative work of God’s grace that justifies, regenerates, sanctifies, and adopts the believer into God’s family.

This two-fold transformation highlights the comprehensive nature of salvation in Christ. It's not simply about a change in legal status but also about a radical shift in identity and belonging. Gentiles are not merely pardoned from their transgressions; they are welcomed into God's family and given a new lineage, a new home, and a new purpose as part of his people.

There has been a shift from strangers and aliens to fellow citizens.

The term “Fellow Citizens” speaks to the significance of being part of God’s Kingdom

With citizenship comes rights and privileges. In the same way that Roman citizens enjoyed certain legal protections and were granted access to resources and advantages that others were not, being a citizen in God’s kingdom carries its own spiritual privileges:

Access to God: Through Christ, believers can now approach God confidently (Ephesians 2:18), enjoying a personal relationship with Him as their Father.

Inheritance: Believers are heirs with Christ, sharing in the promises of God’s kingdom and the hope of eternal life (Romans 8:17).

Community Belonging: Fellowship with other believers is also a key privilege. As citizens, they share a deep bond of unity and purpose within the Church, which transcends ethnic, social, and cultural divides.

To be a fellow citizen in God’s kingdom means a new identity. Gentiles, who were once “foreigners and strangers” (Ephesians 2:19), are no longer on the margins. They have been brought near and now belong to the people of God. This new identity is not just individual but communal, rooted in the shared citizenship with other believers.This new identity also surpasses any earthly identity or nationality. It means that the believer's ultimate allegiance is no longer to any earthly kingdom but to the kingdom of God. Their true home is now with God and His people.

The Church as a Unified Body

The concept of "fellow citizens" reinforces the unity of the Church. The Church is not a divided entity with tiers of insiders and outsiders; rather, it is a unified body where all believers—regardless of background—have equal standing before God. This is part of Paul’s broader vision in Ephesians: to show that the Church, the Body of Christ, is a spiritual temple where all believers are built together as a dwelling place for God (Ephesians 2:21-22).

2. Community in God’s Family (v. 19b)

Ephesians 2:19 “... the household of God;”

Family Fellowship - Becoming members of the household of God.

Saintly Society – Joining the fellowship of saints in God’s family.

“The church isn’t a place we go; it’s a people we become.” – N.T. Wright

3. Construction on God’s Foundation (v20)

Ephesians 2:20 “20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;”

Apostolic Architecture – Built upon the foundation of apostles and prophets

“The church is no new invention; it’s rooted in the faith and work of the apostles and prophets.” – Augustine of Hippo“

The Word of God, spoken by prophets and apostles, is the bedrock on which we stand.” – Martyn Lloyd-Jones“

The gospel foundation, laid by the apostles, cannot be improved upon—it must only be built upon.” – R.C. Sproul

George Keith has been attributed to writing the great hymn:

How firm a foundation, ye saints of the Lord, is laid for your faith in God's excellent Word! What more can be said than to you God hath said, to you who for refuge to Jesus have fled?

“The foundation of apostles and prophets isn’t nostalgia—it’s the gospel made visible.” – Kevin DeYoung

Not only do we Apostolic Architecture we have for its base...

Cornerstone of Christ – Jesus as the cornerstone uniting the structure.

“Jesus doesn’t just give life to the church; He is the life of the church.” – A.W. Tozer“

The cornerstone sets the direction, and when Christ is the cornerstone, the church follows Him alone.” – Billy Graham“

The cornerstone is not just a piece of the foundation; it’s the piece that aligns the whole building.” – N.T. Wright

So we have been talking about 1. Citizenship in God’s Kingdom, 2. Community in God’s Family, 3. Construction on God’s Foundation now we want to talk about...

4. Cohesion in God’s Structure (v. 21)

Ephesians 2:21 “21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:”

Joined by Jesus – The whole building is joined together in Christ.

He is both Cornerstone and Mortar that holds and fits us together.

Notice who is being joined by Jesus - US - those who are in Christ -

There is a place, a purpose for everyone in God’s Family

You have a specific place and purpose in building up this spiritual temple.

Temple Transformation – Growing into a holy temple in the Lord.

The church is described by Paul as “a holy temple in the Lord,” a “spiritual dwelling for God” (Ephesians 2:21-22).

This is the ideal, the divine blueprint for what the church is meant to be.

Throughout history, this image has inspired Christians, shaping our faith and vision of what the church should look like—a place of belonging, a beacon of truth, and an instrument of reconciliation in a broken world.

Despite the inspiring biblical imagery, however, the real church often falls short.

For many of us, the churches we have known are filled with challenges—imperfections, disputes, and failures.

The gap between the biblical ideal and our lived reality is one of the greatest dilemmas in Christian life.

II. The Dilemma: A Church That Struggles to Match Its Vision

When we look back at history, we are often tempted to romanticize the past, thinking that perhaps the early church, or the church in the Middle Ages, or even the church of the 19th century, got it right. But the reality is much more complex.

In 1800, for example, only 5% of the U.S. population were participating members of churches, and church leaders lamented the church’s lack of influence.

The Middle Ages,T he thirteenth century, for example, was the period of great cathedral building throughout Europe., also reveal spiritual weakness. Dante’s writings, for instance, illustrate the internal struggles of the church during this time.

In “The Divine Comedy,” Dante embarks on a journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise. Throughout this journey, he encounters numerous clergy members, including popes, bishops, and priests, who are condemned for their sins.

This portrayal highlights the church’s weaknesses and ineffectiveness, as many of its leaders are depicted as corrupt and morally compromised12.

It shows that during the Middle Ages, where the church wielded immense power often strayed from its spiritual mission. His work serves as a reflection of the broader societal issues and the need for reform within the church3.

Even the apostolic age, with giants like Paul leading the way, was not immune to the struggles of sin and division. Paul’s description of the Corinthian church is sobering: “quarreling, jealousy, anger, selfishness, slander, gossip, conceit, and disorder” (2 Corinthians 12:20). And James speaks to the favoritism shown to the wealthy in the early church (James 2:1-9).

The reality is that no period in church history presents us with a perfect church. It never was perfect, and it never will be.

Despite these frailties, history shows us that the church has profoundly impacted the world.

In the early centuries, Christians outlived, out thought, and out died their pagan neighbors.

The Middle Ages saw the church absorb and civilize brutish pagan societies, preserving culture and knowledge that would later fuel the Renaissance and the Reformation.

The church laid the foundation of civil law and inspired the very ideals that underpin modern Western civilization.

In America, the church played a critical role in shaping the civic declarations that birthed the nation.

From colonial pulpits, sermons sparked the ideals of freedom and justice that led to the American Revolution.

Even with its imperfections, the church has always carried within it the power to shape history and transform societies.

So to get to what I was attempting to say last week:

Paul is picturing the church as a stately, glorious, rising temple out of the debris and ruins of fallen humanity.

Do you see it rising in your mind and in your heart - far more glorious than the First Temple or Solomon’s Temple, or even Herod’s Temple that the disciples were so enamored with.

It’s a glorious church without spot or winkle - why it’s washed in the Blood of the Lamb

People, us being fitly framed and joined and held together by Christ our Chief Cornerstone and the Holy Spirit

A living breathing organism built by each one in the family of God.

I think of the cell - the basic structural and functional unit of all living organisms. In that cell is the fundamental molecules of life and they are often referred to as the building block of life.

But your body - you … YOU are not ONE CELL - but on average the adult human body is composed of approximately 37.2 trillion cells.

They are fitly joined together to make up you - they are in your hair, your hands, your feet, your brain, your stomach they’re everywhere making you - you and making you alive

Each cell in the human body: each cell has a specific function—whether it's a muscle cell, a nerve cell, or a blood cell—and it plays a critical role in the health and well-being of the entire body.

Yet, THIS IS SO IMPORTANT!!!

Yet, no cell can exist in isolation. If a cell is separated from the body, it loses its ability to function and eventually dies. Its life and purpose are only sustained by being connected to the body.

1. There is an Intimacy and Dependency:

Cells in the body communicate, nourish, and support one another.

They are in constant interaction, sharing resources and signals that ensure the whole body functions smoothly.

In the same way, believers are meant to live in close intimacy and relationship with one another.

We share spiritual nourishment, encourage each other, and build one another up.

When a Christian becomes isolated from the church community, much like a cell being cut off from the body, they become spiritually malnourished, disconnected from the life-giving fellowship and support that the community of believers provides.

2. Unique Roles, One Purpose:

Each cell has its own specific task, but its ultimate purpose is to contribute to the well-being of the whole body.

Similarly, each believer has unique gifts and roles to play in the body of Christ.

In God's family, we are not just individuals loosely connected by shared beliefs; we are intimately connected and dependent on one another to fulfill God’s mission.

Just as no part of the human body can say it has no need of the others (1 Corinthians 12:21), no Christian can thrive in isolation.

We are talking about Being Built TOGETHER: A Living Temple Made of Broken People - this is talking about community.

While I don’t agree with everything Chip Ingram, a pastor, and published author, recently preached a sermon series that has really grabbed my attention on what real Community consists of and looks like.

Ingram's sermon emphasizes the necessity of authentic community for spiritual growth, He makes the claim that certain aspects of transformation can only occur in the context of meaningful relationships with other believers.

True Change Comes From Community - Now I am no way taking away the importance of personal prayer and devotions - but we are built - even though anxiety tells us otherwise - we are built for community - of being with other people

This TRANSFORMATIVE COMMUNITY - however must have certain qualities and attributes -

Now we would begin or say the most important element is the moving of the Holy Spirit - but sometimes I’m afraid we use that as a cop out.

Now Ingram doesn’t talk about this - this is something that has burdened me - If something demonstrative and or visibly happen in a service - we sometimes leave feeling like it was wasted - I hope we have moved away from that somewhat - But NO TIME TOGETHER WITH GOD’S PEOPLE IS WASTED UNLESS WE AREN’T LIVING TRUE COMMUNITY

Let me tell you why - The Holy Spirit is not some vaporish, nebula, foggy, shadowy figure that may or may not come to church - This is a lie we as Holiness People have bought into from Satan

If you are a Christian - Jesus and the Holy Spirit are living inside of you - NOW THINK OF THAT just as I talked about the cells having the life giving and building blocks of life - SO YOU WHEN WE COME TOGETHER BRING THE SPIRIT WITH YOU

Now I understand that - The Holy Spirit will manifest Himself in unique and different ways at different times - and however He wishes to do that and whenever He wishes to do that I am thrilled - but at the same time HE IS WORKING INSIDE OF US IF WE ARE IN CHRIST - HALLELUJAH THAT IS SHOUTING GROUND!!!

Back to Ingram - he gives five elements of a Christian Community

1. Authenticity: Authenticity is the foundation of true Community.

True Christian community requires vulnerability and openness, where individuals can be their true selves and share their struggles

Ingram uses the image of a mask, urging listeners to "take off your mask" and stop projecting a false image

He emphasizes that real connection happens when we allow ourselves to be known, flaws and all.

Of all places - our church community should be a place where we can share our hearts with one another.

Here is what I am talking about - what is something you could never share with this group gathered here today?

What are your reasons for not sharing that? (Now I’m not asking you to share every single dark deep secret - but I want to get at the why_

Is it because you are embarrased? Why are you embarrased? Do you think people will think less of you?

Is it because you are afraid? Why are you afraid? Will you think people don’t believe in you anymore?

Is it because you feel like no one cares? Or wants to be bothered by it? Why - do you feel neglected and alone even though you come to church?

But what do we do? We come in the church and we try to talk so positive, and smile, and smile, and put on a smile, and try to keep everything that doesn’t seem ok or safe to share stuffed down deep inside

Authenticity says - NO RIP THAT MASK OF AND BE YOUR TRUE SELF - I remember Bro. Lorton preaching to us so many times about “BE YOURSELF”

real connection happens when we allow ourselves to be known, flaws and all.

2. Ingram says the second Hallmark of Authentic Community is, Meeting Real Needs: Ingram challenges the superficiality often found in Christian circles. He urges us to move beyond surface-level interactions and delve into the deeper needs of those around us

:Authentic community provides a support system where members can rely on one another, encourage each other's growth, and help each other become the individuals God intends them to be2.

3. Right Motives: Ingram cautions against seeking approval from others, emphasizing that our service should stem from a desire to please God, not people6. He shares his own struggles with people-pleasing and the freedom he found in prioritizing God's opinion above all else.

4. Upward Focus: Ingram highlights the importance of perspective, urging his listeners to maintain an "upward focus", grounding their hope in God's promises and faithfulness, especially during challenging times.

5. Outward Focus: Authentic community, according to Ingram, extends beyond our immediate circle. He emphasizes generosity and hospitality, encouraging listeners to reach out to those on the margins and welcome strangers into their lives

The main reason many Christians are spiritually stagnant, according to Chip Ingram, is that they are not experiencing authentic community .

this type of community is a special environment that enables growth \ and fosters spiritual transformation in ways that simply attending church or reading the Bible cannot .

Ingram elaborates on the concept of a "special environment" using the analogy of a plant:

He states, "The greatest seed and the greatest soil cannot grow in the wrong environment" . Just as a houseplant would wither in a desert, Christians cannot thrive without the proper environment to support their spiritual development .

While Ingram acknowledges that many Christians are sincere in their desire to grow, he suggests that their efforts are often futile because they lack the crucial element of authentic community .

Obstacles to Connection in Larry Crabb's Connecting

He calls them "urges” - but the picture is challenging and convicting -

I’m talking about being BUILT TOGETHER

Here are the four "urges" Crabb describes, drawing on the metaphors he uses:

City Building: The Urge for Adequacy. Crabb uses the metaphor of "city building" to illustrate the human tendency to rely on our own resources and accomplishments to feel secure and significant.

This drive for self-sufficiency manifests in an anxious preoccupation with our own adequacy, leading to behaviors like seeking affirmation, fearing criticism, and envying others' successes. [1, 2]

This focus on self-promotion ultimately hinders genuine connection because it prevents us from approaching relationships with openness, vulnerability, and a willingness to simply be present with another person.

this urge for adequacy often underlies pleasant relating, where interactions remain superficial to avoid exposing our perceived inadequacies.

Fire Lighting: The Urge for Certainty. Crabb employs the metaphor of "fire lighting" to represent our desire to reduce the complexities of life to manageable formulas and guaranteed outcomes. [1, 3] This urge for certainty drives us to seek control, crave predictability, and prioritize being "right."

Fire-lighters gravitate towards clear-cut answers, expert opinions, and proven strategies. However, this quest for control often morphs into a subtle form of self-reliance, hindering our ability to fully trust God and embrace the inherent mystery and uncertainty of life.

This urge for certainty can lead to moralistic relating, where we attempt to control others' behavior through rules and judgment, believing that our way is the "right" way.

Wall Whitewashing: The Urge for Safety. The metaphor of "wall whitewashing" captures our deeply ingrained desire to protect ourselves from pain, disappointment, and the uncertainties of life. [1, 5]

This drive for self-preservation manifests in risk-aversion, a focus on the positive, and a tendency to avoid difficult emotions or challenging situations.

While a degree of self-care is essential, Crabb argues that an excessive preoccupation with safety can lead to spiritual stagnation and hinder our ability to experience the fullness of life God intends.

in the "real battle" for the soul, will often involve wrestling with pain, doubt, and uncertainty, a battle that wall-whitewashers are often reluctant to join. [6, 7]

Well-Digging: The Urge for Satisfaction. Crabb uses the imagery of "well-digging" to illustrate our relentless pursuit of immediate gratification and our attempts to control our emotional experiences. [8, 9] He takes this thought from Jeremiah 2:13-14

Jeremiah 2:13–14 KJV 1900

13 For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water. 14 Is Israel a servant? is he a homeborn slave? why is he spoiled?

God has everything we need to satisfy us - but well diggers go out in pursuit of their own water.

Driven by this urge, we seek fulfillment in external sources, craving pleasure, avoiding pain, and demanding that our needs be met.

This constant striving for satisfaction, however, often blinds us to the needs of others and creates a self-centered approach to relationships. [10]

We want pleasure that we can control to fill us with joy. But it can’t be done. It won’t happen.

Still we try, sometimes with obvious things like pornography, overeating, and money;

other times with less obvious things like prestige, competence, or power.

We demand a pleasurable feeling that eliminates the ache. But that won’t come till heaven.

That’s the dynamic of a well digger. Well diggers are ruled by an urge to feel good now, completely, to generate an internal experience of well-being that has no sadness involved. Their question becomes, “Am I fulfilled?” That’s all that matters.

Well diggers evaluate their relationships, their careers, their bank accounts, their day-to-day activities with one criterion: Do these things satisfy me?

And they find themselves regularly answering no.

Our souls were built for a satisfaction that only Christ and heaven can provide. Then the ache will finally be gone.

As the ache continues to be felt beneath the available pleasures, two things happen.

First, we begin demanding more satisfaction and living to get it. Whatever provides even a brief experience of ache-free happiness becomes irresistible. The urge to feel now what we will only feel in heaven dominates us; we change jobs, leave spouses, try new churches, live for bigger ministries, eat too much, indulge increasingly perverted sexual urges, do whatever gives momentary satisfaction.

Second, we assume responsibility to arrange for the pleasures we want. We dig our own wells. It feels good to know that satisfaction is available on demand. We don’t like being at the mercy of an unpredictable God.

The urge for satisfaction then flourishes. It consumes us. It determines every choice we make.

Then God goes to work to help us mortify this passion of the flesh. He often helps well diggers learn to hate their well digging by smacking them in the face with the damage their pursuit of pleasure causes others. Recognition of that damage disturbs Christians’ new hearts.

This constant striving for satisfaction, however, often blinds us to the needs of others and creates a self-centered approach to relationships.

Do you see one of these four urges? The Holy Spirit is faithful to point things out to us

Lets pray that God would help us

We can set around and complain about the state of our local church - but if that is all we do we are contributing to the problem -

we are a community a family - and when one is hurting we all hurt -

we also have to remember to be kind to one another,

to love one another,

to serve one another,

to bear long with one another,

to forgive one another - when they don’t act like you think they should, when they don’t have all of the same qualities you do, when they interpret things just a little different.

Jesus never said - “You will be known as follower of me or My Disciples” because you do such amazing things in your community, or because you are on the cutting edge of church programs and methods, or because you do everything just right

No IT WAS BECAUSE IT WAS A SEE ABLE, RECOGNIZABLE, VISIBLE, TANGIBLE, NOTICEABLE, REAL TRUE LOVE FOR ONE ANOTHER

1. Citizenship in God’s Kingdom, 2. Community in God’s Family, 3. Construction on God’s Foundation, 4. Cohesion in God’s Structure and now we want to talk about...

5. Consecration for God’s Dwelling (v. 22)

Ephesians 2:22 “22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.”

Spiritual Structure – Built together as a dwelling place for God.

Spirit’s Sanctuary – Inhabited by the Holy Spirit, the church becomes God’s home.

We should be “Built Together: A Living Temple Made of Broken People”

Come back tonight and I plan to talk about Treasures in Earthen Vessels See you at 4:30