Scripture
Ephesians 4:17-32 (NIV)
So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. 18 They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. 19 Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed.
20 That, however, is not the way of life you learned 21 when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. 22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your 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 Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they 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.
Introduction
Today’s passage teaches us how to live this new life in Christ; speaking truthfully, controlling anger, working honestly, using words to build others up etc.
The questions below will guide us in understanding and applying the scripture better.
1. Why is it important to reflect the transformation that Christ has brought into our lives through our daily actions and attitudes?
2. In verses 18-19, what is the state of the Gentiles’ understanding and their relationship with God? What behaviors result from this condition?
3. In verse 30, what does Paul mean by “do not grieve the Holy Spirit,” and how can our actions either grieve or honor the Spirit?
4. What steps can you take to ensure that your words and actions build others up rather than tear them down?
5. How can you be more intentional about renewing your mind daily through prayer, scripture reading, and meditation on God’s Word? Which strategies can you adopt today?
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