FHBC Sermon Notes

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Scripture: Ephesians 5:1-14 - Listen
Walking in Light: Further Instruction on Walking in Holiness.  Asking the question, "How do we walk in the Light?"

1. By imitating God. 5:1
• v1. Be imitators. Paul keeps stating, "don't be ____, but be_____".  All this is imitation. 
• Legalistic imitation is not enough. It isn't just following rules but following the Spirit.
•  Imitation here in a positive sense.
• In our conduct, in holiness, Paul says, v1, imitate as beloved children.
• Jim tells a great story about his son Elijah imitating him taking a nap. Doing everything the same, except for the napping part.  :-)
• In order to imitate we must watch the one to be imitated.  Ask honestly, are we imitators of the world, or of God.
2. By demonstrating Christ-like love toward the brethren. (5:2)
• V1 and V2 are inseparable. We walk in love, and this is how we know that we are imitating not by rules alone. As Christ loved us and gave himself up. 
• Jesus was not lead to the slaughter like all the others. He went there Himself.
• What is the effect of this type of love. It is a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
• How much do we devote to personal hygiene while living our lives as a complete corruption. The smell of something truly sour.  1 John 4:12 God's love in us, is the evidence of God's in our life. Would you lay down your life for each person here?
3. By abstaining from the practices of darkness. (5:3-6)
• V6 Let no one deceive you with empty words. How can we have the love of God if there is no change? These things bring the wrath of God. They are sour to Him With God's Spirit these things become unnatural to us.
• Examine ourselves.  Have we been truly changed? Are we more aware of our sin?