7: The Unified Body of Christ – Teaching Plan

Key Thought: One way we foster unity is by being active parts of the body and contributing to its health and growth.
August 12, 2023

1. Have a volunteer read Ephesians 4:1-10.

Ask class members to share a short thought on what the most important point is in this passage.
How does Paul encourage believers to nurture the unity of the church?
Personal Application: Do you think the one body and one faith is the remnant church, or do you think the one body and faith consists of a multitude of bodies and faiths that unite together? Share your thoughts
Case Study: One of your friends states, “How do humility, gentleness, and patience help unify your church? How do we learn to cultivate these virtues?” How would you respond to your relative?

2. Have a volunteer read Ephesians 4:11-13.

Ask class members to share a thought on what the most important point in this text is.
What gifts does Jesus give us and for what purpose are they given?
Personal Application: What winds of doctrine are blowing in the church today? How can we protect ourselves and others from the damage these winds can cause? Share your thoughts.
Case Study: One of your friends states, “Why does your church believe in a modern-day prophet? Isn’t that adding to the Scriptures? What more do we need? What is the purpose of a modern-day prophet when we have the Bible?” How would you respond to your friend?

3. Have a volunteer read Ephesians 4:14.

Ask class members to share a short thought on what the most important point in this text is.
What danger threatens the Christ-like maturity of the church?
Personal Application: In what cases might seeking unity at all costs become counter-productive? Share your thoughts.
Case Study: One of your neighbors states: “In what ways does a church function like a body? How can you tell if a church is healthy or ill?” How would you respond to your relative?

4. Have a volunteer read Ephesians 4:15,16.

Ask class members to share a thought on what the most important point in this text is.
What does it mean to speak the truth in love and grow up in Him in all things?
Personal Application: How can we get every member to use their gifts and talents to increase the body and make it healthier? Share your thoughts.
Case Study: Think of one person who needs to hear a message from this week’s lesson. Tell the class what you plan to do this week to share with them.

(Truth that is not lived, that is not imparted, loses its life-giving power, its healing virtue. Its blessings can be retained only as it is shared.”Ministry of Healing, p. 148).

Amen!