Introduction:
1) One of the greatest tragedies of the century in the church has been has been the divisions that have remained among us. A great strategy for warfare is to divide and conquer. If it is possible to take the enemies troops and cause them to concentrate on several fronts at one time, it is possible to defeat them.
2) So likewise that has been the strategy that the enemy of our souls has used against the church of Jesus Christ. If we are really truly seeking revival, it will not come to just one group. It will come through His body, the church.
3) But it is important that you and I really learn to grow, to grow to the level that we recognize, that His body is not our church but His body is the church.
I. The Word Of God Challenges Us To Keep The Big Picture – See As God Sees
Ephesians 4:1 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,
Romans 8:29-30 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
II. The Word Of God Challenges Us To Have A Big Heart – Act As God Acts
Ephesians 4:2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;
Ephesians 4:3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Matthew 12:30 He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.
1. Pure hearts Jesus Christ will be exalted in heart felt worship.
2. Pure hearts are submitted to Jesus Christ as Lord.
3. Pure hearts Jesus Christ must be preached as the Savior and the lost brought to Him.
4. Pure hearts honor Gods' Word of truth.
III. The Word Of God Challenges Us To Be One Family – Love As God Loves Ephesians 4:3-6 1) There are some affirmations that we need to affirm in hearts to love as God loves:
1. Love people so much that you are broken hearted for the souls of people that are lost in their sins.
Jesus gave His entire life to pay a ransom for our forgiveness.
Jesus died as a substitute to the death penalty for our sins.
Jesus rose again from the dead to verify His victory on our behalf.
We are all lost without a Savior.
2. Love God so much that you never doubt the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary.
From the cradle to the cross to the resurrection and His soon coming!