Episode 4: Sea Change Church The Church S1E4 – The Purpose of The Church - Mission - Pastor Adam Stadtmiller

Sea Change ChurchThe ChurchS1E4 – The Purpose of The Church Pt. 4MissionPastor Adam StadtmillerEphesians 3:7-137 Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God's grace, which was given meby the working of his power. 8 To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace wasgiven, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, 9 and to bring to light foreveryone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God, who created all things, 10 sothat through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers andauthorities in the heavenly places. 11 This was according to the eternal purpose that he hasrealized in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have boldness and access with confidencethrough our faith in him. 13 So I ask you not to lose heart over what I am suffering for you,which is your glory.Big Idea: The Church is not merely doing God's work; it is God's masterpiece on display,revealing His wisdom, grace, and power to the world.Key Verse: Vs. 10 so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be madeknown to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places.2 Corinthians 10:3–5:"For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For theweapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, andtake every thought captive to obey Christ."Key Word: What Is "Manifold Wisdom? The Greek word is: πολυποίκιλος (polupoikilos)A compound word:● poly = many● poikilos = varied, diverse, multi-coloredVs. 1 Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God's grace, which wasgiven me by the working of his power.● The Gospel: The Gospel is the good news that Jesus died for our sins, rose from thedead, and offers forgiveness and eternal life to all who trust in Him.● A Minister: A minister is anyone who serves Christ by helping others grow in Him.● Of Grace and Working in Power: A minister of grace is a believer entrusted with God'sgifts, serving others so they can experience God's love, truth, and transforming power.○ A community transformed by the power of God is marked by restored families,healed hearts and bodies, changed lives, united people, and a tangible awarenessof the presence and power of Jesus.Changing CommunitiesThe Church changes culture when ordinary people, transformed by Jesus, faithfully representHim in every sphere of influence.1. Family2. Church / Faith3. Education4. Government5. Business6. Media / Communications7. Arts, Entertainment & Sports8. Health, Science & TechnologyPractical Takeaway: This week, identify where God has strategically placed you and take oneintentional step to bring the love, truth, and presence of Jesus into that sphere of influence.Small Group Discussion Questions:1. What does it mean to you that God has chosen the Church to display His manifoldwisdom to the world?2. In what sphere of influence (family, work, school, community, etc.) has God uniquelypositioned you to represent Jesus?3. How can you become a more effective minister of God's grace to the people around you?4. What strongholds, false beliefs, or barriers need to be torn down for the Gospel to have agreater impact in your life or community?5. What is one practical step you can take this week to help make Jesus known where God has placed you.