Don’t Be Like the Pagans: Ephesians 5:3-5
January 26, 2020 Preacher: Bob DeWaay Series: Ephesians
Scripture: Ephesians 3:5
As Paul admonishes those who are the “one new man” of Ephesians 2:15, he lists specific sins that were common among the Gentiles that cannot be allowed in the lives of Christians. The pagans thought it normal to be immoral, full of greed and to engage in vulgar talk. We explain what the various Greek terms mean and why such sins are not tolerable in our lives as Christians. As those who are part of the “new man” in Christ, we cannot be like the pagan world around us. Many times people curse because of serious ingratitude. Paul prescribes thanksgiving as the antidote to vulgarity.
The sermon also focuses on the inheritance that Christians have which is eternal. Rather than engaging in forbidden practices to “get ahead,” we need to make sure we live so as to preserve our eternal inheritance.
This is thematic in Ephesians. Citizenship in heaven is ultimately important, but only truly meaningful for those who believe the promises of God. We need to be kind, thankful, motivated by faith in God and never vulgar like the pagan society we live in.
More in Ephesians
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God Reveals the Church: EphesiansFebruary 21, 2021
A Faithful Servant and Benediction: Ephesians 6:21-24January 31, 2021
Stand in Prayer: Ephesians 6:18-20