Grace on Display: The Church in motion

You must live according to a new standard. (vs. 11-13)

Paul is not advocating for a socialist view of the world, where there are no cultural distinctions, but he is advocating for the removal of all societal barriers.

as the elect of God

holy and beloved

Paul begins with a summation of the standard, then breaks it down into its parts, and ends with the actions needed to achieve the standard:

Standard - Bowels of mercies - Christians, the Church, ought to be defined for their heartfelt concern for humanity!

Parts - kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering

Actions - Forbearing AND Forgiving

The most neglected precept of our Lord is found in Matthew 18:15-17.

The ultimate standard is found in the love of Christ (v. 14).

You must live subjected to a new master (vs. 14-16)

There is a shift here between interpersonal relationships within a body of believers to the experience of corporate worship:

In other words, the worship experience can be hindered by our faulty relationships.

I call these permissive imperatives. In other words, “If you want to experience God in worship like you were meant to experience Him, then these two concepts must be calling the shots in your life.”

Let the peace of God rule in your hearts.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.

Notice, the implied need for gathering together in order for these concepts to be effective.

You must live out your faith publicly (v. 17)

Christianity is not a personal, private faith. It is not determined based upon your fancies or whims.

Christianity is a public display of your public profession to know Christ!