Ephesians
“Grow Up” 
Ephesians 4:1-16

The Christian walk is not a list of “dos and don’ts”, but living in light of what God has done for us.
 
How do we grow in our walk with God?  

1. Embrace humility
Humility maintains peaceful unity in the church and our relationships. (Ephesians 4:1-4)

“Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking of yourself less.” –C.S. Lewis

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.” –Philippians 2:2-4

2. Pursue unity
Unity is the goal of the church because it is the essence of God. (Ephesians 4:5-6)

Our unity in Christ is a witness to the world.

3. Discover your ministry
God gives each of us unique gifts to be used for His glory. (Ephesians 4:7-16)  

Teamwork makes the dream work!

“When each part is working properly, makes the body grow …” (Ephesians 4:16)  

What are spiritual gifts?  
God-given abilities that enable us to love, build, and grow the Kingdom of God here on earth. Every believer has a gift from God. (Ephesians 4:7)

How are these gifts different than talents? 
Talents are given when you are born.
Spiritual gifts are given when you are born again.  

What is the purpose of spiritual gifts?
For the growth of the believer and benefit of the Christian community (Ephesians 4:15-16)
The ministry leader’s purpose is not just to do ministry, but to develop leaders (Ephesians 4:12)

How do I determine my gifts?
You become aware of them as you grow in your faith and service to Him.

“Just as each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of the varied grace of God.” –1 Peter 4:10

Without love, our gifts profit nothing. (1 Corinthians 13)

To discover your spiritual gifts, it might help to start by asking these questions:
1. Ask yourself: What opportunity is in front of me to bring grace to someone else today?
2. Ask a friend: What do I consistently do that relieves, frees or blesses you?
3. Ask God: Will you show me my spiritual gifts and allow me to put them to work?

Different spiritual gifts (Romans 12:6-8, 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, Ephesians 4:11):
Administration, Apostleship, Discernment, Encouragement, Exhortation, Evangelism, Faith, Giving, Healing, Hospitality, Knowledge, Leadership, Mercy, Miracles, Pastoring, Teaching, Serving, Wisdom