Friday First - Walk Worthy

During June we are spending our time in Ephesians 4.1-16. So far we have plumbed the depths of verses 7-16 … talking about unity in the body while simultaneously thinking about how it applies to the installation of additional leaders for Cornerstone. How Paul constructs the first 16 verses of Ephesians 4 is noteworthy.

First, he stresses we have to live the life. But how do we do it? Verses 2-3 show us the inward change that must take place in our heart before we engage in external actions. We put on humility, gentleness, patience, forbearing love, and work for unity. This is all built on the foundation of the Spirit, Son, and Father, 4.4-6. Next, Paul speaks about the resources we have been given to walk effectively. We have our own gift, given to us upon salvation, 4.7. We also have the gift of talented leaders Christ has given the church, who encourage us, train us, and equip us to build up the church, 4.11-13. The power behind all of this is Christ, 4.15b, who helps us function together as one causing the growth of the body.  

Ephesians 4.1-16 presents us with a comprehensive plan on how the church is to function, grow, and prosper.

Our lesson Sunday will focus on:

• Ephesians 4.1 - Paul’s appeal: Walk Worthy of the calling you have received.
• Ephesians 4.2-3 - How to walk: 5 essential attitudes
• Ephesians 4.4-6 - The foundation or basis for our walk. 

As you prepare for worship on Sunday, please give consideration to these questions:

1. What does it mean to you to walk worthy?
2. What is so special about the “calling” you have received? How should this impact your spiritual life?
3. Why do you think humility is so elusive?
4. Does “gentleness” imply weakness, impotence, or indifference? Explain.
5. Of the qualities in 4.2-3, which one challenges you most? Why? How can you take these things more seriously?

OPENING / WELCOME
Jim Grushon

SONG LEADER
Jason Schofield

PRAYER OF PRAISE
Mark Ringle

LEAD LORD'S SUPPER
Chris Terrian

SERVE LORD’S SUPPER
George Long
Dylan Schofield
Nathan Armstrong
Chris Fles
Roger Robins
Tommy Ray
 
SCRIPTURE READING
Randy Mullins
Ephesians 4.1-6

PREACHING
Matthew Allen

CLOSING PRAYER
Randy Mullins

CLOSING COMMENTS
Rich Walker

WELCOME CENTER
Kathy Downey / Emily McDonald

USHERS
Dan Spargo / Bob Hoopes

CLOSING THE BUILDING
Mike Rosato