The Dwelling Place of God
Text: Ephesians 2:19 – 22
12 June 2005
(I) SPECIAL REFERENCES OF THE CHURCH
1. Members of the household of God – a spiritual family Ephesians 2:19
a) No longer strangers
b) Fellow citizens
2. The foundations are built upon the prophets and the apostles Ephesians 2:20
a) Their writings
b) Their life and ministry
3. Christ the chief cornerstone Ephesians 2:20
(II) THE CHURCH AS THE DWELLING PLACE OF GOD
1. Concept of a building
“In whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord…” Ephesians 2:21
a) Many different parts
b) Fitted together
c) A glorious temple in the Lord
2. Concept of a habitation
“In whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.” Ephesians 2:22
a) The work of the Holy Spirit
b) Built together
c) The dwelling presence of God
(III) BUILDING A DWELLING PLACE FOR GOD IN THE CHURCH
“In whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.” Ephesians 2:21 – 22
1. The role of the Lord Jesus Christ
“In whom…”
a) Christ established as the chief cornerstone Ephesians 2:20
b) The blessings of God unfolded Ephesians 1:3
c) Spiritual power Ephesians 1:18
d)Spiritually alive Ephesians 2:5
e) Exceeding grace given Ephesians 2:7
2. The work of the Holy Spirit
“In the Spirit…”
a) Godly wisdom Ephesians 1:17
b) Revelation of the truth and spiritual understanding Ephesians 1:17 – 18
c) Spiritual unity Ephesians 4:3
d) Spiritual renewal Ephesians 4:24
e) Seeking to honour God Ephesians 5:8
3. Our part in building
a) Desiring Oneness
“In whom the whole building, being fitted together…” Ephesians 2:21
b) Pursuing Oneness
“In whom you are also being built together…” Ephesians 2:22
c) Perseverance (After unity has been achieved!)
“Grows into a holy temple…” Ephesians 2:21