Sg Outline - Discipleship Character

Ephesians 4:1-6: Living Worthy of the Calling – Developing CHARACTER 1

As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. Memorize: Growing in Christ means becoming more & more like Jesus. Paul was imprisoned because he obeyed Christ and preached the Gospel. If we were to suddenly lose our right to live our Christian faith in America, would our lifestyles be ones that “gave us away,” or would we blend in with everyone else? What does it seem that Paul most desires of the Ephesian church in this passage? (Unity: oneness of mind, feeling, etc., as among a number of persons; concord, harmony, or agreement [http://dictionary.com]) Unity exists only where there are relationships. Relationships are more than just dating —they include parents/children, boss/employee, friend/friend, brother/sister etc. Apparently, relationships are very important to God; we can practice our relationships in a way that honors what we desire, or what God desires. Try to think of some biblical examples as you answer the following questions. -How might practicing humility look like in a relationship vs. practicing pride? Ex: not letting someone talk about how they feel about a shared interest, believing that you know best and what’s right all the time. (Pharisee & Tax Collector Luke 18:10-14) -How about gentleness vs. roughness? Ex: putting someone down for making a mistake. (The Prodigal Son Luke 15:11-32) -How about patience vs. rashness? Ex: reacting to someone that hurts you in a way that doesn’t allow for reconciliation. (Joseph and his brothers Genesis 44:4-7) -How about love vs. hatred/apathy? Ex: using your free time for your own interests instead of helping someone in need. (The Good Samaritan Luke 10:30-35) Reflection: What relationships in my life are not being lived the way Jesus would live them? Prayer: God, help me to honor you in the way I practice my relationships. May they be marked by complete humility, gentleness, patience, and love.