AM Scripture Reading: Ephesians 5.25-30

This Morning’s Sermon:                                        Brent T. Willey

The Church In Splendor

Ephesians 5.27

Introduction:

1. In Ephesians 5, Paul illustrates two important relationships: the husband & wife, and Christ & His church. His primary focus is “Christ and the church” (v. 32).

2. He the church in Ephesus how they must remain pure: “so that He might present the church to Himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish” (Eph. 5.27).

3. For us to be presented as a “church in splendor,” it requires individual application – it’s up to me and it’s up to you!

1. If it is a scripturally sound church, it is because each of us respects the authority of God’s word and desire to grow in knowledge. (2 Tim. 1.13; 4.2-4)

2. If it is an active church, it is because each of us is faithfully committed to her work and ministries. (Rom. 12.4-8)

3. If it is a friendly church, it is because each of us takes the initiative to be friendly. (Prov. 18.24; 2 Cor. 13.12)

4. If it is a happy church, it is because each of us is happy and filled with the joy of God’s salvation. (Phil. 4.4; James 5.9)

5. If it is a loving church, it is because each of us demonstrates love in speech, deeds and attitude. (John 13.34-35; Rom. 13.8)

6. If it is a giving church, it is because each of us gives regularly, liberally, cheerfully and without grudging. (2 Cor. 9.6-7)

7. If it is a soul-winning church, it is because each of us is interested in doing what we can to introduce others to Christ. (Prov. 11.30; John 1.40)

8. If it is a teaching church, it is because each of us is involved in the Bible classes and edification. (Heb. 5.12-14)

9. If it is a growing church, it is because each of us is doing what we can to make it so. (Eph. 4.16)

Conclusion: Are we a church in splendor, or are we a church in need of restoration and repair?