Phase 1 – Week 6

 

Unity of the Faith

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1. Take a few minutes to greet and introduce everyone.
    

2. Commit the group time to prayer. Specifically pray for our church to thrive in our unity.
    

3. Watch the video.
    

4. Read Ephesians 4:1-16.
    

5. Nurturing our Head, Heart, and Hands Questions (Outcome #1):
   
   The overall focus of this passage is unity as believers. This unity does not assume agreement on all things and conformity on all issues. Verse 2 clearly assumes the opposite.There is no need for you to be patient with someone who agrees with you on everything and is just like you! This means if you claim to be a part of people Christ has purchased with his own blood, you are called to be unified with other people who are quite different than you are. The reason for this is, regardless of differences, all Christians find redemption through the same Spirit, Lord, and faith.
   
   a. What specific exhortations in verses 2-3 does Paul give as examples of walking in a manner worthy of our calling? Take time to consider and discuss practical implications of each exhortation. Confess times and ways you have not walked in a manner worthy of your calling.
   
   b. Verses 11-12 state that various leaders in the church are given to “equip the saints for the work of ministry.” What are the end results of ministry that are given in verses 12-16? Take time to consider and discuss practical implications of these results.
    

6. Hearing the Voices of Members Questions (Outcome #2):
   
   Talking about unity is one thing. Maintaining unity is another. It requires faithfulness to the things Paul writes in this passage.The list of things that Paul prays for are clear, but they are also broad. Let’s consider how these things could be practically evident in the life of City Church.
   
   a. What are things we can continue to build on at City Church that communicate and maintain our unity in one Spirit, one Lord, one faith, and one baptism?
   
   b. What ways do you think the leadership at City Church can best serve you to equip you for the work of ministry? Keep in mind the end results that ministry is seeking to accomplish.
    

7. Take a few moments to individually submit your answers to the Members’ Voice questions.
    

8. Close in prayer.