Text: Ephesians 5:1-7
Synopsis: Because believers are loved and forgiven by God, they are called to live lives that reflect His character and refuse patterns of speech, behavior, and identity that belong to their former way of life.
Biblical Studies Toolbox: Indicative leads to Imperative
In our text tonight you will see some prohibitions given. Here is something to understand, though. Paul grounds commands in what God has already done. The big idea is that Christian obedience flows from identity, not fear or self-improvement. We respond from God already saving and giving favor. We don't obey to gain His love. We obey because He's already given it.
Example from the text:
Paul does not begin with rules. He begins with “beloved children” (v.1) and Christ’s self-giving love (v.2). The call to holiness in verses 3–7 rests on who believers already are and what Christ has already done.
Read Ephesians 5:1-7
Section 1: Imitating God in Love (vv. 1–2)
Believers are called to imitate God by walking in love shaped by Christ’s sacrificial death.
Discussion Questions:
What do you think Paul means when he says we are to imitate God “as beloved children”? What does it mean to do that? What kind of illustration is he using?
Re-read verse 2. How can Christ’s sacrificial love define what “walking in love” looks like in our everyday lives? Give us some examples.
What can make imitation motivated by love different from imitation motivated by pressure or guilt?
Section 2: A Community Set Apart (v. 3)
Certain behaviors are incompatible with the identity of God’s people and should not characterize the church at all.
Discussion Questions:
Why do you think Paul say these sins must “not even be named” among the saints?
How does culture often normalize the things Paul lists here? Give some examples.
What do you think it looks like for a church to take holiness seriously without becoming self-righteous?
Section 3: Speech That Fits the Saints (v. 4)
Paul addresses shameful conduct, foolish speech, and degrading humor, calling believers to a different tone and posture with their words.
Discussion Questions:
At first glance the categories in verse 4 seem pretty similar. How might they be different from one another?
It's odd that Paul talks about joking with such firmness. Maybe he sees humor's influence in a way that we don't. Why do you think speech and humor could matter so much in shaping a community?
What might “thanksgiving” sound like in contrast to the kinds of speech Paul warns against?
Section 4: Warnings and Wisdom (vv. 5–7)
Paul gives a serious warning about identity, inheritance, and deception, urging believers to avoid partnership with disobedience.
Discussion Questions:
How can “empty words” deceive people about sin and judgment today? Have you ever seen this demonstrated? How?
What do you think it looks like to live in the world without becoming “partners” in its values or practices?