Mature, Stable and Safe (Ephesians 4:14)
September 22, 2019 Preacher: Bob DeWaay Series: Ephesians
Scripture: Ephesians 4:14
The point of the ministry gifts to the church which equip the saints for ministry is that the flock would be strong, stable and not seduced by false teaching. We explore the idea of “no longer” which is not only used here in Ephesians 4:14, but it used in other important passages such as Romans 6:6 and 2 Corinthians 5:15. God intends that those who believe the gospel leave behind immaturity and the old life of living for self. Many evangelicals have been told that doctrine is not important and likely to be divisive. That idea is false and this verse proves it. The sermon gives examples of how neglecting doctrine creates instability and immaturity. “Tossed to and fro” and “carried about” are two participles Paul uses to describe how Christians are not to be. We need to build on the Rock as Jesus taught in Matthew 7 so that we will withstand the winds that will inevitably buffet us. This verse also has three descriptions of Satan’s schemes which are carried out by human deceivers: trickery, craftiness, and a planned strategy. Teaching solid doctrine, believing it, and living accordingly is how we become mature and stable. The sermon warns against refusing to welcome the truth and thus coming under the judgment of hardening.
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