Ephesians (Part 18)
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Sermon Notes:
Last Week's Reflection: Ephesians 5:3-14
Paul's Warning to Wake Up: A call for vigilance against practices contrary to Christian values.
Absolute statements on behaviors that prevent inheriting the kingdom of God, including idolatry, envy, divisions, drunkenness, and more.
A clear warning that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God (Vs 21).
Today's Scripture: Ephesians 5:15-21
Shift to Wise Living and Spiritual Fullness:
Encouragement towards wise living, making the most of time because of the evil days (Vs. 15-16).
Understanding God's will as opposed to foolish living (Vs. 17).
Being filled with the Spirit instead of indulging in debauchery like drunkenness (Vs. 18).
Expressing worship through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs; making melody to the Lord with your heart (Vs. 19-20).
Cultivating gratitude, always giving thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of Jesus Christ (Vs. 20).
Practicing mutual submission within the body of Christ out of reverence for Christ (Vs. 21).
Practical Wisdom and Spiritual Guidance
Living Wisely:
The metaphor of walking wisely, applying knowledge with wisdom.
The importance of making the best use of time, recognizing the maturity deficit in society.
Understanding God's Will:
Differentiating between natural and spiritual understanding.
Questions to consider for those uncertain of God's will or their spouse's needs in marriage.
Being Filled with the Spirit:
How to be filled with the Spirit through communal worship and personal devotion.
Specific types of worship: Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs.
The role of worship in expressing surrender, trust, and gratitude.
Application to Personal and Community Life
Cultivating a Lifestyle of Gratitude:
The transformative power of a thankful heart in all circumstances.
Directing gratitude towards God the Father, in the name of Jesus Christ.
Mutual Submission:
The impact of mutual submission on the Christian community and the wider world.
The potential for solving world issues through the Christian principle of esteeming others above oneself.
Conclusion: Living Out the Gospel
Paul's guidance in Ephesians 5:15-21 serves as a roadmap for Christians to live wisely, understand God's will, be filled with the Spirit, express heartfelt worship, cultivate gratitude, and practice mutual submission.
These practices are aimed at closing the gap between believers and the world, preaching a Gospel of hope through lived example.
