Off the Shelf Sunday School--Ephesians

Christian Behavior (5:1-7)

Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly beloved children 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. But among you there must be not even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. For 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. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore, do not be partners with them.?

?1.????Paul says that Christians are obligated to follow the ways of Jesus because he is our king. Therefore, we are to love others sacrificially. Jesus subjected himself and his will to God the Father to save those whom the Father had chosen to be his children. (Rom 5:6-8)

To live a life of love means that we put our desires second to seeking what is best for others. Parents usually do this for their babies. What are some ways that you have loved sacrificially for others? What are some ways that you can do better in loving?others?

2.????Paul says that there should not be even a hint of sexual immorality and impurity among Christians. The human sex drive is powerful and is a continual challenge to control. Likewise, greed comes from selfishness and the desire to have power and pleasure. These sinful urges can only be conquered by seeking to love God first and foremost. In this way, the Holy Spirit helps us to put to death the desires of the flesh. (1 Pet 4:1-2; 1 Jn 2:16-17)

3.????The Bible teaches that what we say reflects our thoughts and character. Both good and evil words spring from the tongue. Paul tells Christians that they must control what they say. Foolish talk and coarse joking dishonor God. We are his children and we should behave consistent with his holy example.?(Gal 5:16; Jas 3:1-12)

4.????Those who live sinful lives seek to entice others into joining their immoral actions. (1 Cor 15:33)

Paul says that those whose lives are characterized by sinful habits show that they are not saved. How does this differ from carnal Christians whose spiritual growth is very??slow? (1 Cor 3:1-4)

5.????Paul says that Christians must not partner with unbelievers. What does this mean?

?To partner with someone means that we share common goals, resources and values.?In what ways does the church partner with the world?

Name some good and bad ways that the church partners with the world. Paul warns?that the church must not accept sinful practices. In the Old Testament, marriages?between Jews and Gentiles caused the Jews to accept the worship of false gods. This still happens when Christians and unbelievers marry. (Dt 7:1-4; 2 Cor 6:14)