11/2/2014
Know Who You Are in Christ—Pt 6
Ephesians 4:17-32
Spiritual Ignorance Leads to Unhealthy Lifestyles
So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. Eph 4:17-18
A Lack of Spiritual Sense Leads to Unhindered Hedonism
Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more. Eph 4:19
Spiritual Renewal Leads to Transformed Lives
You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Eph 4:20-24
Spiritual Maturity Reforms Our Attitudes
Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. Eph 4:25
Spiritual Wisdom Moderates Our Temperaments
“In your anger do not sin” : Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Eph 4:26-27
Spiritual Birth Reforms Criminal Tendencies
He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need. Eph 4:28
Spiritual Instruction Redirects the Intentions of Our Words
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Eph 4:29
Spiritual Awareness Awakens Spiritual Sensitivity
And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Eph 4:30-32