Annual Growth: #SquadGoals

Read Ephesians 4:1–6

Introduction and Summary:

The first three chapters of Ephesians mention "in Christ" 27 times. Paul repeatedly makes the point that when we decide to follow Jesus, we take on a new identity in Christ. Chapter 4 now transitions to "if that is who you are, then (THEREFORE...first word of chapter 4) this is how you should live."

One real problem I think we all would agree with is that Christians do not always act like Christians or as the name means, "Christ ones."

In order for a believer to grow and mature in their faith, they must live inside the instructions and blessings of God. Unfortunately, many believers' lives are marked by not experiencing the peace, joy and satisfaction that comes from living for the Lord.

Paul wrote this epistle to the early churches to urge believers to walk worthy of their vocation. In other words, to live like what God has called them to be.

Group Discussion:

How is a "worthy life" defined and measured in verse 1?

What are the 4 things listed in verse 2 that we as Christians are called to do? (Humble, Gentle, Patient, Forgiving)

1. Humble (put others before self)

What is humility?

What's a real example of how you can humble yourself?

How does your perspective towards others change when you humble yourself?

How would you begin to be more like Christ if you humbled yourself daily?

Other verses to discuss - James 4:10, 1 Peter 5:5-6

2. Gentleness (strength under control)

How can you gently use the gifts, abilities and strengths that God has given you?

What happens when you use those same gifts, abilities and strengths with reckless abandon?

What's one or two areas that you need to immediately apply the trait of gentleness to? How will you do this?

3. Patience (long-suffering; enduring discomfort without complaint)

How does your relationship with God affect how patient you are?

Why is patience a virtue? (Galatians 5:22-23)

Control freaks, what are you going to do about this? How can you change?

4. Forgiveness (making allowance for the faults of others)

Why is forgiveness one of the hardest things to do?

What does not forgiving someone else say about you?

How could extending forgiveness heal a relationship? How might it heal the other person? How might it heal you?

Closing Question and Thought:

Those are the 4 WHAT TO DO's, but what is the WHY behind the WHAT? WHY do we do these? (Because of what God has done for us.)

Praise and worship God for all He has done for you!