(Ephesians 4:11-16 ESV)

[11] And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, [12] to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, [13] until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, [14] so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. [15] Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, [16] from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.

1. Take a few minutes to discuss the upcoming move.  Answer questions if you can, and take note of any questions that you can’t answer and then send them to Pastor Aaron, and he’ll try to answer them.
2. Read Ephesians 4:11-16
3. According to this text, what is the primary function of church leaders? (answer: to equip everyone else to do ministry).
4. If we serve one another biblically, it will help the church grow and mature spiritually.  Can you think of a “non-pastor type” who has served you and helped you to grow in the Lord? Tell us about them.
5. How does serving in the church, and helping others mature…help you mature yourself? Examples?
6. Read verses 13 and 14 again. Discuss the picture of Christian maturity that is presented.  Is that accessible to us…or is this an overstated ideal picture?
7. What is your spiritual gift(s)?
8. Read 1Pet. 2:9. Have you ever thought of yourself as a Priest?…or as someone called to proclaim the excellencies of Jesus to other people? How does that make you feel?
9. What does all this mean for your lifegroup? How you serve each other? Your role in the church?