October 2005: The WHY in Ephesians

Ephesians 4:17-5:20

WHY LIVE?
Introduction
**Reminds me of the old Ivory Soap commercials.
**What does it mean that something is 100% pure?
**I encourage just reading through this text in a modern translation like the New Living or The Message and let the text itself drive the points home.

Living as Children of Light 4:17-32
· Don’t live like the ungodly.
· Throw off your old life and life for Jesus.
· Become a new person.
· Don’t lie to each other and don’t get angry with each other.
· Use your hands for good things.
· Use your words for good things.
· Do not grieve the Holy Spirit.
· Get rid of hateful actions and speech, so that you think of others better than yourself.
Living in the Light 5:1-14
· Follow God’s example and love.
· Avoid impurity and stupid talk. Instead thank God.
· Don’t make excuses for sins, rather obey God.
· Avoid darkness and live in the light.
· Please God, avoid evil and expose it.
· Don’t even talk about deeds of darkness.
· Shine your light in dark places.
Living by the Spirit’s Power 5:15-20
· Not as fools, but as those who are wise.
· Make the most of opportunity for doing good.
· Act with the Lord’s purpose.
· Don’t get drunk!
· Let the Holy Spirit do HIS work in you.
· Make music to the Lord.
· Give thanks.
Conclusion
**Why live pure?
**Romans 2:7 ~ “He will give eternal life to those who persist in doing what is good, seeking after the glory and immortality that God offers. But He will pour out His anger and wrath on those who live for themselves.”