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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