FINDING ONE’S PLACE IN THE BODY
EPHESIANS 4:7-16
INTRODUCTION:
A. The body of Christ is one body; Ephesians 4:4
1. The body and the church are the same; Ephesians 1:22-23
2. Jesus is the head of the body/church; Colossians 1:18
3. Jesus has given every member a place in the body; Ephesians 4:7, 15
4. Every part is to be active; Ephesians 4:16
B. Our topic, “Finding One’s Place in the Body”
I. THE BODY, ORGANIZED AND FUNCTIONING:
A. Christ is the head (authority); Matthew 28:18
B. The Elders, (bishops, pastors, overseers); Ephesians 4:11
1. Several titles, one office or work; I Timothy 3:1; Acts 20:28
2. Elders are to be examples of godliness to the flock; I Peter 5:1-3
C. Deacons are servants under the eldership; I Timothy 3:13
D. Evangelists and other members; II Timothy 4:5; Titus 2:2-10
II. EVERY MEMBER IS RESPONSIBLE TO THE HEAD: Ephesians 4:12, 16
A. Each person is to prove himself; II Corinthians 13:5
B. Every member has a work; Philippians 2:12
C. Each member is to carry his part of the work load; Galatians 6:4-5
D. Each member also has a responsibility in encouraging others; Galatians 6:1-2; Hebrews 10:24; Matthew 25:40
III. FINDING ONE’S PLACE IN THE BODY:
A. Jesus calls for the best in each member; Ephesians 4:7; Matthew 6:33
B. Diligence and effort required; II Timothy 2:15; Matthew 5:6; I Peter 2:2
C. Delight and meditate in the word; Psalm 1:1-2
D. Get acquainted with the activities, seek a place in the body; James 1:22; 4:17; Galatians 6:9
E. Ask for help in finding your place
CONCLUSION:
A. The body is one unit with each member actively doing his part; I Corinthians 12:12-14
B. Are you a part of the Lord’s body?
C. Are you carrying your part of the work load?
