How Did Christ Give Gifts to His Church
Tim Conway explains how Christ's ascension enabled Him to give diverse spiritual gifts to His church, fostering unity and maturity within the body of believers.
This sermon delves into Ephesians 4, emphasizing the significance of Christ's victory and ascension, highlighting the diversity of spiritual gifts given to believers for the unity and edification of the church. It explores the unique logic behind Christ's ascension after descending into the lower parts of the earth, showcasing the unparalleled glory and authority bestowed upon Him. The sermon calls for a deep appreciation of the gifts Christ has won for His church and a fervent desire for their manifestation and utilization in building up the body of Christ.
Sermon Outline
-
I
- Unity and diversity in the body of Christ
- Grace given according to Christ's measure
- The purpose of spiritual gifts
-
II
- The significance of Christ's ascension
- Paul's use of Psalm 68 in Ephesians 4
- The relationship between receiving and giving gifts
-
III
- Understanding Psalm 68's imagery and challenges
- The shift in pronouns and its theological meaning
- God's victory leading captives and establishing His sanctuary
-
IV
- Christ as the true fulfillment of Old Testament shadows
- The ascension's role in equipping the church
- The call to maturity and unity in the faith
Key Quotes
“Christ is given a diversity of gifts to His people precisely to foster unity.” — Tim Conway
“Paul's mind is focused in on Christ. And when he sees gifts being given, his mind is on Christ.” — Tim Conway
“This is indeed Yah Elohim ascending. It is. But, you need to see this for what it is. This is an ascension into the true sanctuary.” — Tim Conway
Application Points
- Recognize and appreciate the diverse spiritual gifts within your church as essential for unity and growth.
- Reflect on Christ's ascension as the source of empowerment for ministry and service.
- Pursue spiritual maturity by engaging in the work of ministry equipped by Christ's gifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Paul quote Psalm 68 in Ephesians 4?
Paul uses Psalm 68 to show that Christ's ascension is the foundation for Him giving gifts to the church, linking Old Testament prophecy with New Testament fulfillment.
What is the significance of Christ's ascension in giving gifts?
Christ's ascension places Him in a position of authority to bestow spiritual gifts on believers, enabling the church's growth and unity.
Why is there a shift from 'you' to 'he' in Psalm 68:18?
The shift reflects a poetic and theological device emphasizing God's personhood and the divine action of ascending and giving gifts.
How do diverse spiritual gifts promote unity?
Different gifts equip believers for ministry, working together to build up the body of Christ towards maturity and faith unity.
What does 'mature manhood' mean in this context?
'Mature manhood' refers to spiritual maturity, growing into the full stature and character of Christ.