Eph 4.1-6 Unity

Unity - Ephesians 4:1-6

In the family you grew up in, what did you learn about getting along?

In the family you grew up in, what did you learn about getting along?

When you are part of a group disagreement, what do you tend to do? I disagree openly / I agree with the person I like the most / I hold my tongue to keep peace / I withdraw from relationships / I do something else…

I disagree openly / I agree with the person I like the most / I hold my tongue to keep peace / I withdraw from relationships / I do something else…

- I agree with the person I like the most

I hold my tongue to keep peace / I withdraw from relationships / I do something else…

- I withdraw from relationships

I do something else…

What is one idea in Sunday’s sermon that you found especially interesting, helpful, puzzling or disagreeable?

Read . Choose one verse or phrase that stands out to you. This could be something you’re intrigued by, something that makes you uncomfortable, something that confuses you, or something that resonates with you. What strikes you about this verse?

What do you think prompted Paul to focus on the unity theme in Ephesians? What makes this such an important aspect of our faith-life?

In , Jesus describes Himself as meek or “humble.” How was Jesus’ life an example of meekness and humility—that is, power under control, used to serve rather than to dominate?

Read . How would you describe the ‘mindset of Christ Jesus’ spelled out in verses 5-8? Verses 3-4 explain how that mindset of humility looks in everyday relationships… what is your first reaction when you read these verses?

See . How do humility and patience work together? What roles do these and the other character traits in play in building unity?

Read . In at least seven areas all those who truthfully are united in Christ are united now on earth. What kinds of visible unity should you be working for, perhaps with someone with whom you feel the division of differing interpretation of Scripture?

Read . How can false doctrine break the unity of a church? What is the difference between a church that is cultish and one that simply has a different doctrinal bent than others?

Read . If our unity and our witness to the world are so closely linked, what is one way you want to live out that unity this week?

[1] References (This and some other questions taken or adapted from the following sources)

Wendy Horger Alsup, By His Wounds You Are Healed: How the Message of Ephesians Transforms a Woman’s Identity. (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2010).

R. C. Sproul, Before the Face of God: Book 4: A Daily Guide for Living from Ephesians, Hebrews, and James, electronic ed. (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House; Ligonier Ministries, 1994).

Warren W. Wiersbe, The Wiersbe Bible Study Series: Ephesians. (Colorado Springs, CO: David C Cook, 2012).