Sunday's Sermon Preview

Sermon Preview: His Fruit
Scripture: Ephesians 4:1–6  
Additional passages: Galatians 5:16–25; John 15:1–5; Ephesians 3:16–17  

This Sunday, we’ll continue in Ephesians and begin looking at chapter 4, where Paul describes what a life “worthy of your calling” looks like. God’s plan for His people is not just better outward behavior—it is deep transformation from the inside out.

Paul points us toward humility, gentleness, patience, love, unity, and peace. These are not simply items on a spiritual checklist. They are fruit produced by the Holy Spirit as we remain connected to Jesus.

We’ll talk about the difference between trying to “act holy” and allowing Jesus to make us holy. On our own, we may be able to look the part for a while, but we cannot truly transform our hearts. Jesus said, “Apart from me you can do nothing.” Real change comes as we abide in Him and invite the Holy Spirit to lead every part of our lives.

We’ll also see that God’s renovation plan is not just for individuals—it is for the church. As each of us is transformed by Christ, we are joined together into God’s masterpiece: a church marked by love, unity, and peace, where the world can see the living God.

Big Idea  
God doesn’t call us to fake holiness through better behavior; He invites us to abide in Jesus so the Holy Spirit can produce His fruit in us and unite us as His church.

Questions to Reflect on Before Sunday  
- Does my life reflect humility, gentleness, patience, love, unity, and peace?  
- Am I trying to change myself from the outside in, or am I inviting Jesus to transform me from the inside out?  
- In my daily decisions, am I being led by my flesh or by the Holy Spirit?  
- How does my relationship with Jesus affect the way I treat others in the church?  
- Is Jesus truly Lord in every part of my life?

For Families  
Parents, this is a great week to talk with your kids about fruit. You might ask:  
- What kind of fruit does a healthy tree produce?  
- What kind of “fruit” does Jesus want to grow in our lives?  
- Can a branch grow fruit if it is disconnected from the vine?  

Help them understand that love, patience, kindness, and gentleness are not things we create by trying harder. They grow in us as we stay close to Jesus.

Prayer for the Week  
Lord, show me where I have been trying to look good instead of letting You change my heart. Fill me with Your Spirit, lead every part of my life, and grow Your fruit in me. Make our church a place of humility, love, unity, and peace. Amen.