Biblical Priority Of Commitment Scripture: Eph. 4:15-16 But speaking the truth in love, let us grow in every way into him who is the head—Christ. 16 From him the whole body, fitted and knit together by every supporting ligament, promotes the growth of the body for building itself up in love by the proper working of each individual part. Commitment is Spiritual in Nature Eph. 4:15 (CSB) But speaking the truth in love, let us grow in every way into him who is the head—Christ. It is about giving rather than getting It is seeking to make others successful It is an opportunity rather than an obligation Eph. 6:7-8 (NIV) 7 Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, 8 because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do, whether they are slave or free. Col. 3:17 (NLT) And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father. I Cor. 10:31 (CSB) So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God. Commitment is an Expression of Relationship Eph. 4:16 (CSB) From him the whole body, fitted and knit together by every supporting ligament, promotes the growth of the body for building itself up in love by the proper working of each individual part. Rom. 12:4 (CSB) Now as we have many parts in one body, and all the parts do not have the same function, Covenant Involves… Expectations Commitment Accountability Unity A covenant provides encouragement Heb. 10:24-25 (NLT) 24 Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. 25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. “encourage” = come along side to give help” A covenant promises spiritual protection Heb. 3:12-13 (NIV) 12 See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. 13 But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. “sin’s deceitfulness” = “trickery” / “appearing different than it really is” A covenant promotes restoration Gal. 6:1-2 (HCSB) Brothers, if someone is caught in any wrongdoing, you who are spiritual should restore such a person with a gentle spirit, watching out for yourselves so you also won’t be tempted. 2 Carry one another’s burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. The Power of a Committed Church When the world is losing hope…the church must walk in faith When the world is divided…the church must be in unity When the world is focused on self…the church must serve Please be sure to save or email the notes to your device when complete. You matter to us because you matter to God. LifeSource Community Church - LifeSourceLindale.com