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Scripture and questions for study and reflection:
Read Ephesians 4:11-16.

1. Each week throughout this sermon series there will be a new question. Today\\u2019s question is:\\u201cAre you a contributor or a consumer?\\u201d What is your definition of \\u201ccontributor and consumer\\u201d? Why do you think these words are important to this sermon series?

2. Do you think our consumer-driven culture has affected the church? If so, how? Is this a problem? Why? In what ways is consuming a good thing?

3. In the Right Now Media study this week Zach Zehnder says, \\u201cWe are a Christian country filled with people living purposeless, meaningless, unfulfilled lives.\\u201d What do you think he means by this? What could make things better?

4. Pastor Mick shared another example from Jim and Jennifer Cowart this week portraying the church as either a cruise ship or a battle ship. How might that example help us better understand consuming vs. contributing? Which example best describes most churches/congregations you know?

5. What are your thoughts about the 80/20 Rule and how it pertains to the church? Is this an acceptable rule for the church? What happens to the church when this rule is in effect?

6. Read John 4:34. What does this verse say to you regarding consuming vs. contributing and which one leads to true fulfillment? How is this supported by Maslow\\u2019s Hierarchy of Needs pyramids?

7. When talking about the church in verse 16, Paul says, \\u201ceach part does its work.\\u201d What does he mean by that and why is it so important? What happens when each part doesn\\u2019t do its work?

Prayer for the Week:
Gracious God, thank you for the many opportunities that you place along my path which enable me to utilize the gifts you have given me to glorify You. I am grateful to be a part of the Body of Christ and thankful that I am able to serve You. Forgive me when I neglect to be your \\u201chands and feet\\u201d and remind me often that I need to always do my part in building up the church. I am a willing servant for you, Lord. Amen.