1. In Ephesians 4:4-6, seven unique subjects are listed. 2. At the present time we are studying a series of lessons designed to help us know the truth concerning these subjects. 3. Previously, we have examined the "one body," the "one Spirit," and the "one hope." 4. Today we are focusing our attention on the "one Lord" mentioned in vs.5.
Discussion:
I. LET US FIRST IDENTIFY THE "ONE LORD"
A. This is where we need to begin because the Bible uses the word "lord" in different senses. 1. Sometimes "lord" is used in reference to men. a. (1 Peter 3:6) Sarah called Abraham "lord." 1) She recognized Abraham's role as the head of the family. 2) She demonstrated her submission by obeying Abraham. b. (Matthew 25:14-30) Jesus told a parable about a man and his servants. 1) (vs.19) Jesus referred to the man as "the lord" of his servants. 2) When the man reckoned with his servants, they called him "lord." 2. "Lord" is also used in reference to God and Christ. a. God is called "Lord" in Matthew 22:37. 1) God is the Creator and the supreme source of authority. 2) His children are to love Him more than anyone or anything else. b. Christ is also called "Lord." 1) (Luke 2:11) When Jesus was born an angel gave a special message to the shepherds -- "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord." 2) Throughout the New Testament Jesus is called "Lord" many times. 3. These verses indicate that the word "Lord" is used to refer to someone who: a. has power or authority b. owns or possesses someone else c. has control of someone else d. deserves honor and respect. B. Who is the "one Lord" mentioned in Ephesians 4:5? 1. In 1 Corinthians 8:6 Jesus is identified as the "one Lord." 2. According to Romans 10:12, Jesus is "the same Lord over all," including the Jew and the Greek. a. (Acts 2:36) Peter was preaching to a Jewish audience, and he said, "Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ." 1) These people were affected by what they had done (vs.37). 2) They demonstrated their submission to Christ (vs.38, 41). b. (Acts 10:36) Peter was teaching Gentiles at the home of Cornelius, and he said that Jesus "is Lord of all." 1) (vs.48) Peter commanded these people "to be baptized in the name of the Lord." 2) This is the "one baptism" mentioned in Ephesians 4:5 that Jesus commanded in the Great Commission (Mark 16:15-16). C. Jesus Christ is the "one Lord" of both Jews and Gentiles.
II. AS THE "ONE LORD," JESUS HAS ALL AUTHORITY
A. He claimed to have all authority (Matthew 28:18; John 17:2). B. His authority can be seen: 1. in His teaching (Matthew 7:28-29) 2. in His miracles (Matthew 8:23-27) 3. in His forgiving sins (Matthew 9:1-8) 4. in His casting out unclean spirits (Mark 1:23-27) 5. in His position as the head of the "one body" (Colossians 1:18).
III. AS THE "ONE LORD" JESUS GIVES CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS TO HIS FOLLOWERS
A. Examples: 1. He wants every one to confess that He is "Lord" (Philippians 2:9-11). 2. Confessing Jesus as "Lord" is a requirement for salvation (Romans 10:9-10). 3. Just calling Jesus "Lord" is not sufficient -- He requires obedience to His teaching (Luke 6:46). B. By complying with these and other requirements, we can be prepared for "the day of the Lord" (2 Peter 3:9-14).
Conclusion:
1. Jesus is the "one Lord" mentioned in Ephesians 4:5. 2. He will add us to His "one body" when we confess Him as "Lord" and submit to His "one baptism." (see Acts 8:36-38)
