1. God’s Called Out Body Unity Psalms 133; Eph 4:4-6; Rom 14:17-19 Intro The greatest gift given to us by the Father is Jesus. (Jn 3:16) The greatest gift given to us by Jesus is His Body—the church— the called out community.

2. A quick reflection on the previous messages… 1 st — We are: A chosen people; a royal priesthood, a people for God’s possession. 1 Pet 2:9 2 nd — We are: Eclectic; intriguing and quirky. The Lord wants us to realize that we are a part of something bigger. Love is the key and it starts with loving the Lord well.

3. A quick reflection on the previous messages… 3 rd — We are called: To encourage one another. Encouragement is not necessarily to spot light a person but to seeing the Lord at work in their lives. Hebrews 10:23-25 Love & Good deeds spurring one another along.

4. Todays Topic “Unity” The troubling narrative and the challenge associated with it… “I love Jesus but dislike/hate the church” Ephesians 4:4-6 context Eph 3:10 The very foundation of the church is built upon our Trinitarian God whom we love, worship, and serve. One God; One Spirit; One Lord

5. Psa 133 Two points A realization that brothers and sisters do not always get along. Therefore the point how good and pleasant it is when we dwell in unity! Throughout Scripture oil is used as a symbol of God’s presence and favor. When we see others as God’s anointed our relationships will be profoundly affected.

6. Why then the struggle? Rom 14:19—Takes being very intentional and we do slip and our slips are brought up time and again. Four Points: 1.Worship style. 2.Preaching style. 3.Mission/outreach. 4.Giving/tithing.

7. The real challenge — consumerism. Jas 1:22-25 & Jas 1:25 Some application thoughts… Forgiveness—Patience—Humility. Rm 14:19 & Col 3:13