The Importance of Being Settled

The Importance of Being Settled Eph4:11-15

The Apostle starts off with a list of Christian specialists. I didn’t say special Christians, they have been anointed and appointed by God for these duties, Apostles – ambassadors of Christ usually with miraculous power, Prophets – an inspired speaker, may or may not be able to foretell the future , Evangelists – A preacher of the Gospel , Pastors – A shepherd or a leader of an organized local church, Teachers – Instructors. These are given to perfect or to mature the saints. Notice these are not positions that are manmade, but God ordained. We don’t simply set out one day to be one of these. The main goal of these workers is to establish the church. It is a good thing that the heart be established. There is a danger in being unsettled, it causes confusion, disobedience, and backsliding. What does it mean to be settled well Paul tells us in these few passages of some things that won’t happen to a settled individual –

I. They are unmoved by every wind of doctrine. – The picture is of something to light to stand A. What is doctrine? Didaskalia (Did-as-kal-ee’-ah) Instruction/information. Can include both acts of teaching and the material being taught. 1. Christ taught doctrine – It was thought of as new and astonishing because it did not follow what was commonly thought of as religious in that day. A. We need to be careful that we are not following just doctrine, it must have it’s basis in the Word, or we are just being blown about. B. John 7:6 My doctrine is not mine but His that sent me 2. The Early Apostles taught doctrine – mainly three things A. Jesus was the Christ B. That He was raised from the dead C. And that salvation was by faith in Him ALONE B. This doctrine had to mesh with what was already given 1. We find many of them doing this (Peter, Stephen even Christ on occasion) II. Protects From sleight and Craftiness. A. Do you know, I have seen a little pep talking and tears move a congregation to their feet. 1. If we are not careful we will be placing the emphasis on that instead of what they are teaching. 2. Or singing. Just because it brings the house down or they get a standing ovation does not mean the words of the song echo the Bible. B. It will take more that trickery and deceitful scheming to mature the saints III. Guards from those lying in wait to deceive. A. Can I just declare to you tonight, I AM HAPPY IN CHRIST I DON’T NEED ANYTHING ELSE 1. I can use drawing closer to God, I can use blessings, or any thing He sends my way A. But I’m not looking for any other way, any other doctrine, any other road. The Bible is my roadmap, The Spirit my Compass, Heaven is my Home.