ONE Conversation Starters
- What stood out to you in the worship gathering? (Missed it? Try VancouverChurch.org/sermons)
- What do you like about being part of a church comprised of three distinct tribes, each reaching out to a different cultural group in our county?
- Read Ephesians 4:4-6 out loud. What caught your attention in this passage?
- Paul is speaking of the unity that God so much loves. He invites us into this harmony through our trust in Jesus. For a deeper reflection on this passage, write a phrase that defines each element of “oneness” highlighted in Ephesians 4:4-6. If you’re unsure, that’s okay, just take your best guess, then discuss your answers. one body — one faith — one Spirit — one baptism — one hope — one God and Father — one Lord
- What do you think are some of Paul’s main points as he writing these verses?
- Consider the phrases, “one Spirit…one Lord…one God and Father of all.” What do these verses tell us about God?
- Consider the phrases, “one body, one faith…one baptism, one hope.” What do these verses tell us about the followers of Jesus and God’s desire for us?
- Read Ephesians 4:1-3 and discuss how these verses relate to verse 4-6. Be sure also to discuss the difference between unity and conformity.
- In each of the following character qualities what must you do to be successful this week in making “every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit”? Pick a specific relationship within the body of Christ and a situation that affects that relationship, then write a few phrases that describe the actions, attitudes and words necessary for you to fulfill this command in each of these four areas.
Be completely humble — Be completely gentle — Be patient — Bear with one another in love - Discuss your willingness to take these steps you’ve defined and pray for each other. Be sure you give a few moments of stillness and silence before you start praying, to listen for any subtle promptings the Spirit may have for you in your time of prayer!