What practical steps can we take to live as "members of His body"? Remembering Our Identity “For we are members of His body.” — Ephesians 5:30 • Membership is not symbolic; it is a living union. • Every choice flows from the fact that Christ is the Head (Ephesians 1:22-23). Staying Connected to the Head • Start each day acknowledging Christ’s lordship (Colossians 2:6-7). • Abide in Him through consistent prayer and listening (John 15:5). • Test every plan, desire, and opinion against His Word (Psalm 119:105). Walking in Unity With Other Members • “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). • Speak truth in love, avoiding gossip and division (Ephesians 4:25, 29). • Quickly forgive, bearing with one another (Colossians 3:13). Serving With Our God-Given Gifts • The Spirit gives gifts “for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). • Identify areas of strength, then volunteer in the local church. • Celebrate others’ gifts without comparison (Romans 12:4-6). Practicing Sacrificial Love • Follow the pattern of Christ: “He laid down His life for us” (1 John 3:16). • Look for daily ways to prefer others—time, resources, encouragement. • Love in deed, not only in word (James 2:15-16). Keeping the Body Pure • “You are to be holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16). • Turn from impurity in media, conversation, and relationships (2 Timothy 2:22). • Confess sin promptly; receive cleansing (1 John 1:9). Feeding on the Word and Spirit • Let “the word of Christ dwell in you richly” (Colossians 3:16). • Meditate on Scripture, not merely read it—store it in heart and mind. • Stay filled with the Spirit through obedience and worship (Ephesians 5:18-19). Guarding Daily Fellowship • Continue steadfastly in teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer (Acts 2:42). • Meet regularly; isolation weakens members (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Encourage one another daily (Hebrews 3:13). Reflecting Christ to the World • Live “blameless and pure… shining like stars” (Philippians 2:15). • Do good works so others “may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). • Share the gospel, inviting others into the body (2 Corinthians 5:20). Applying these steps keeps every believer healthy and effective, displaying the beauty of Christ’s body on earth until He returns. |
    |