Sermon Notes:
I. From enmity to unity. (verses 2-6)
II. From infancy to maturity. (verses 14-15)
III. From deceit to truth. (verse 25)
IV. From taking to giving. (verse 28)
V. From anger to forgiveness. (verses 29-32)
Questions: Points to ponder
Read the following verses in Ephesians 4 and discuss following questions:
A. Read verses 1-6. The Ephesian church was a very multi-cultural community. Why is unity between different cultures difficult? In what ways can a church’s unity be a measure of the church’s love for God?
B. Read verses 14-15. Paul challenges the Ephesian believers to grow up (verse 5). Children grow and mature by being held accountable. How can speaking the truth in love be an effective means to hold immature Christians accountable? Read verses 11-13. What accountability structure does the church have?
C. Read verses 17-25. What did Paul tell the Ephesian believers to put off and put on? (verses 22-24) What is the main motivation for them to do this? (verses 20-21)
D. Read verse 28. What is it that makes stealing bad? What is it that makes giving good? Bonus discussion: Comment on Jean Valjean’s story in Les Misérables and how love, compassion and forgiveness can transform a person.
E. Read verses 29-32. In what ways does forgiveness reflect our love for God and anger reflect our disregard for the Holy Spirit?
Action Points for Reflection:
1. Is there any person that you harbor bitterness against and have not resolved yet? Broken relationships are complicated. What do you think is necessary for this relationship to be healed?
Prayer: Lord, help me to follow your life example and reflect your character in my life.