READING: EPHESIANS 3:8-13
Although I am less than the least of all the Lord’s people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the boundless riches of Christ, and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.
REFLECTION
On Monday we considered Paul's message that followers of Jesus do live transformed lives.

On Tuesday that Jesus is our peace - he brings a new confidence as we trust in him.

Yesterday, Wednesday the challenge and prove ledge to be used by God to bless others.

Today, our reflection is focuses on the church and the amazing power of unity in Jesus.

The New Testament is clear; it constantly reminds us that we are co-heirs with Jesus - we inherit what he inherits, the amazing promises of God. We are children of God the Father. We belong to the same body of Christ (Ephesians 3:6). We stand united in Jesus Christ. We receive as individuals and as a body together the promised Holy Spirit. Wow!

This God given, Holy Spirit inspired unity is so powerful. Listen again to today's focus verses: "My task is to bring out in the open and make plain what God, who created all this in the first place, has been doing in secret and behind the scenes all along. Through followers of Jesus like yourselves gathered in churches, this extraordinary plan of God is becoming known and talked about even among the angels!" (The Message)

God has brought everybody together in his church. Therefore, so any disunity (of Christians, churches, denominations etc is so harmful to the spread of the gospel. However, we can also see that unity is so powerful!

The battle is against ‘the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms’ (v.10). What does this mean? You see these 'powers' These powers at work throughout society be it politics - it always seems there is a battle and conflict in this realm!; but also in economic and social organisations of our world ... battle, disunity, conflict. Here is the good news, there is a plan and it's called the gospel. Every time a person is reconciled to God and to those around them, heaven rejoices and he'll s in despair because the gospel of Jesus wins every time. That which was broken is restored and that which was divided is made one. The manifold wisdom of God is revealed to the world.

How is that plan actioned? Paul reminds us again - listen Through followers of Jesus like yourselves gathered in churches, this extraordinary plan of God is becoming known and talked about even among the angels!

The church is the plan; you and me are plan A - there is no plan B! One of the God given gifts given to us here at STC Sheffield is an amazing sense of unity. Our church family has this real and relevant purpose in Jesus - to live in community, to encounter him and to make him known in the world through our lives. A church that seeks to Meet Friends, Meet God and to Live Life Better. If you are listening to this and are part of the STC family, thank you for all you do and all you are - as Paul says, through you the plan of God is being made known. Thank you! I love this church!
PRAY
Lord Jesus, thank you for church, your body, your gift to your world. May we who are church play our small part each day in making you known to others as we live as family in the unity of your Spirit. Amen