Ephesian Part 9 | A Life That Worships God

Scripture:

Ephesians 5:1–7 NKJV

1 Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma. 3 But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; 4 neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not be partakers with them.

Introduction:

Last we ended by talking about being kind to one another, tender-hearted and forgiving as Christ has forgiven us. And since he has done these things we are to be IMITATORS of Christ. That word means to be followers of God.

The term μιμητής is used in the New Testament to describe individuals who emulate the faith, conduct, or example of others, particularly in a spiritual or moral context. It is often used to encourage believers to follow the example of Christ or other faithful leaders.

In other words, our conduct should imitate that of Christ and be exemplary. Paul is talking to a church that has all sorts of outside influences around it. Ephesus has many influences that are not aligned with the life God is calling the believer to live. It is important for us to remember that How we live can bring glory to God. In a world that often asks “How much can I get away with and still be a Christian?”, Paul is telling us to shift our thought process to “What can I do away with to be more like him?”

Power Principle: In a world that often asks “How much can I get away with and still be a Christian?”, Paul is telling us to shift our thought process to “What can I do away with to be more like him?”

We are God’s dear children and every dear child wants to be like their dear father. How do we do that:

So Paul says:

I. Walk in Love

1 John 4:8 NKJV

8 He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.

The word agape means to love without condition. This is powerful because it commands that we treat people right wit no expectation of return. When we place an invoice of reciprocation on our love, if you don’t pay what is expected, No love is issued.

This can leave someone at a love deficit never able to pay the price that is required.

True love is sacrificial. Selfish love is conditional.

Paul says we are to conduct our lives in a sacrificial manner. .. And when we do this we our very lives become worship to God.

II. Love Compels a Higher Standard of living

Ephesians 5:3–5 NKJV

3 But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; 4 neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.

Paul is letting the church know that it is possible and commanded to be free from sin’s grasp. There are some things cannot be synonymous with our existence.

III. Dare to be different

2 Corinthians 6:17 NKJV

17 Therefore “Come out from among them And be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, And I will receive you.”

Ephesians 5:6–7 NKJV

6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not be partakers with them.

There are many influences around us that give different options on How to live. As a matter of fact, the world is going to always offer us their standard of living. They are going to both offer and promote a standard that misses God’s mark but appeals to our flesh.

Romans 1:32 Highlights this rebellion and affirmation of living against God’s Standard.

Romans 1:32 NKJV

32 who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.

A. We must Know who we are

1 Peter 2:9 NKJV

9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;

B. We must walk accordingly

1 John 2:1–6 NKJV

1 My little children, these things I write to you, so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. 2 And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world. 3 Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. 4 He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5 But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. 6 He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.

IV. Conclusion

Matthew 5:16 NKJV

16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

A powerful question as we seek to worship God through our lives is: “Is God currently pleased glorified in the way I live my life?” If today was my last day, would the summation of my life lead to a light that could draw others to Jesus?

Am I a burning ember that lights the way to show others the path to Christ?