A Primer on Basic Morality
Ephesians 4:25 – 5:2 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26 “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he 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. 5:1 Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
There is behavior that is worthy of the gospel and behavior that is not. Paul divides this letter into two parts: Chapters 1-3, God’s salvation in Christ and Chapters 4-6, our response to his grace. He has already urged the Ephesians to maintain the unity he created and warned them not to live like the other Gentiles do. Now, he gives them a primer in moral behavior. We may find his list obvious, as would the average Jewish Christian. However, they are converted pagans, not long removed from their immoral lifestyle and Paul wants to make sure they understand. Sometimes, we need a refresher as well!
1. Always tell the truth.
2. Deal with your anger before you sin.
3. Don’t take what doesn’t belong to you
4. Work hard, be useful.
5. Share with others.
6. Say helpful, not hurtful things.
7. Get rid of all destructive behavior.
8. Be kind and forgiving to one another.
9. Imitate God in his love, forgiveness, compassion and sacrifice.
Paul doesn’t stop there with his moral primer. In fact, he begins his PG-13 list in Ephesians 5:3, but we’ll get into that next time.
I’ll say more in my lesson,
Joey
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