A Primer on Basic Morality,
Part II
Ephesians 5:3-21 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person– such a man is an idolater– has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7 Therefore do not be partners with them. 8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord. 11 Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. 12 For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. 13 But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, 14 for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said: “Wake up, O sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” 15 Be very careful, then, how you live– not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. 18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. 19 Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 21 Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
Paul continues his primer in basic morality in Ephesians 5:3-21. Living worthy of the gospel presupposes changes from our pre-Christian lifestyle. He deals with more mature themes in this second half of the list.
1. Avoid even the hint of sexual immorality.
2. Keep your thoughts pure.
3. Exercise self-control in your desires.
4. Don’t use obscene language.
5. Don’t tell dirty jokes.
6. Replace inappropriate language with thanksgiving to God.
7. Do not partner with the wicked in their immorality.
8. Make the most of every opportunity for good.
9. Don’t get drunk.
10. Sing, praise, & thank God (be filled with the Spirit).
11. Don’t insist on your own way.
Paul urges the Ephesians (and us) to avoid the “fruitless works of darkness” and to live as “children of light.”
I’ll say more in my lesson, Joey
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