Our Success

Bible Bites

Scott Beyer
10/30/23 - Bulletin

“…until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:13)

When Cain struck down Abel, his line of defense to God was, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” This angry retort was a defensive mechanism to hide his sin, but it also uncovered a very real temptation for us all – the temptation to view our lives as islands.

Ephesians sings a different song than Cain. It speaks of unity within the church… the type of unity found in diverse people bearing one another’s burdens and striving together “until we all attain”.

MY success is not good enough. OUR success is the goal.

What does such unity look like in practical terms? It is seen in weeping together at funerals and visitations. It is seen in rejoicing together at birthday parties and get-togethers. It is seen in mentoring of the next generation and in the care of the aging one. It is seen in conversations about our faith held in our homes and gathered around coffee tables. Ephesians cries for us to follow the Lord together.

We are one, and we rise to meet our Lord together.

Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites

Today’s Reading: Ephesians

Questions to ask:

How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?

This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision