We have lots of problems in our society & even our churches. How can you be part of the solution instead of the problem?
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Previous DIG DEEPER posts on Ephesians
Ephesians 4 Summary
Here's what it means to walk in a manner worthy of your calling:
ALL IN: It's easy to sort of embody Christ's attributes in our daily lives, but that's not at all what we've been called to. We're told to 'be completely humble, gentle & patient' (v2) and to 'make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit' (v3).
KEEP BUILDING & BEING BUILT: We're to equip and be equipped for works of service, building one another up in Christ (v12). Doing this will bring unity in the faith (v13).
GROW UP: Stop acting like children who waffle back and forth on every issue (v14). Instead, speak the truth in love, which builds up the whole body in love (v15-16).
STOP LIVING LIKE A SINFUL PAGAN: Verse 19 describes so many people today: "Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed." Paul is blunt in the next verse: that is not the way of life you learned. We need to stop dangling our toes in this water.
STOP TALKING LIKE A SINFUL PAGAN: Maybe your not really living like a sinful pagan, but your mouth is likely telling a different story. Paul tells us not to let any unwholesome talk come out of our mouths (v29). Instead of tearing people down (their ideas, politics, race, etc), make sure your words build others up.
Dig Deeper
ADJUST YOUR ATTITUDE: It's so easy to get carried away by the incessant sensationalized 'news' we're constantly bombarded with. Don't let it drive you to bitterness & wrath, anger & clamor, and slander (v31). Instead, find ways to be kind to one another, tenderhearted and forgiving (v32).
This doesn't mean you need to capitulate on your principles. Sometimes the kindest thing you can do is lovingly hold fast to Biblical teaching!
AAA Prayer:
ACKNOWLEDGE WHO GOD IS: One God and Father of all, who is over all, and through all and in all (v6).
ALIGN YOUR LIFE WITH GOD'S WILL: Be made new in the attitude of your minds and be like God in true righteousness and holiness (24).
ASK GOD FOR WHAT YOU NEED:
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