Ephesians 4:28-32 — God's Way!

READ THIS: Ephesians 4:28-32

28 Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.  29 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. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

WHAT’S THIS MEAN, ANYWAY?

Paul's words have been sticking to a theme these last few days: replacing the way we used to live with the way God wants us to live! In this section, Paul decides to get very clear on specific things we can let go of and specific things we can start doing. Here are some of the ones he lists out:

  • Instead of stealing from others' work, we should not only work ourselves, but share our work!
  • Instead of speaking in unhealthy ways that tear others down, our words should encourage others!
  • Instead of being bitter, rude, or angry towards God and others, we should be kind and forgiving!

These are great ways we can grow in our walk with Jesus, but the biggest thing that sticks out to me in the passage are the last 7 words:" just as in Christ God forgave you." Really, all of these areas of growth could have the sentence "just as in Christ God ____ you." Christ loved us first, forgave us first, shared with us first, and encouraged us first. Before we were born, God makes His love for us clear through His Son, Jesus! Because of that love, we can let go of our sinful ways and pursue God's way!

THINK ABOUT IT:

1. What is an area of sin listed in the verses above that you think you need to let go of today?

2. What can you replace that sin with so that you can look more like Jesus?
 
TRY THIS:
 
We try to give you guys some form of this benediction every Sunday, and it ties in with Paul's "just as in Christ" idea! Check it out:

No matter what you do or what has been done to you, you are a part of God’s family, which means: 
 
We love each other. We forgive each other.  And we will be there for each other. 
 
Why do we do that?
 
Because God first loved us, He first forgave us, and He first promised to never leave us!

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