Walking Worthy

Intro- Walking with God is an appropriate response to who God is

-Not legalism, but relationship

-Not obligation, but desire

All Christians have been called

Ephesians 4:1–3 ESV

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

1. All Christians have been called

Our calling calls us to a lifestyle, not simply claim an identity

-Football player Analogy

-Blake was in a band (doesn’t sing, doesnt’ play an instrument, no gigs, no rehearsals)

That calling looks different for different people

We are declared worthy through Christ

-Not through our actions

Romans 4:1–3 ESV

What then shall we say was gained by Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh? For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.”

-There is a standard or a way to walk worthy

2. Fruits of walking with the Lord

a. Humility

-”Not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less.”

Rick Warren, “The Purpose Driven Life”

Matthew 22:37–39 ESV

And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.

b. Gentleness

i. not weakness, controlled strength (Point to Christ)

Proverbs 15:1 ESV

A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

c. Love

i. In spite of circumstances and feelings

ii. Develops and strengthens patience

-Share about praying for teamwork and building relationships on World Changers trip

-Not everyone is the same place

-We are called to patiently disciple others

d. Unity

i. Through the Spirit