Ephesians 1:15-22 The church is described as Christ’s body. What does that tell us about its nature? What does that tell us about its functioning?

The Body of Christ I. We Represent Christ to the World. A. The apostles were “ambassadors of Christ” (Matt. 10:40; Luke 10:16; 2 Cor. 5:18-20). B. There was a special sense in which the apostles were “ambassadors” but all Christians are to spread the “word of reconciliation” (1 John 4:16-17).

The Body of Christ II. We Function as a Unit. A. Christ is the head and all the parts are joined together (Eph. 4:11-16). B. All the parts are dependent upon each other (1 Cor. 12:14-27). C. All the parts have their own special function (Rom. 12:4-8).

The Body of Christ III. We Imitate Christ. A. Christians imitate Christ (1 Cor. 11:1). B. We strive to think like Christ (Phil 2:5- 7). C. We strive to live like Christ (1 John 2:5-6).

The Body of Christ IV. Christ Dwells in Us. A. Christ dwells in our hearts through faith (Eph. 3:14-17). B. We become a “dwelling place for God in the Spirit” (Eph. 2:18-22).

The Body of Christ V. We Are Crucified With Christ. A. Christ lives in us (Gal. 2:20). B. We are buried with Him in baptism (Rom. 6:1-8).