In this longest section of the series, Paul walks through a depiction of Christlike living – “a life worthy of the calling you have received” (4:1) – framed as putting off the old self and putting on the new self (4:20-24). The old self was marked by darkened understanding and impure living. The new self is marked by renewal of the mind and holiness. Paul applies this to our internal desires, the words we speak toward others, our sexuality, and many other specific activities. The endpoint of it all is being filled with the spirit, so that our lives become praiseworthy to the Lord (5:18-20).
Ephesians 4:17-5:20
SERMON OUTLINE
“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self…and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” (Ephesians 4:22, 24)
Living Holy (Ephesians 4:17-24)
Living Love (Ephesians 4:25-5:2)
Living Light (Ephesians 5:3-14)
Living Wise (Ephesians 5:15-20)
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- Whom do you know or have you heard/read about that has looked most like Jesus to you? What was it about them that impacted you?
- This week, as we continue our journey through Ephesians, we turn to Ephesians 4:17-5:20. Begin your study by asking God to speak to you through your study of Scripture. Then, whether you’re alone or in a group, read that passage aloud.
- Last week, we encountered a pivot in Ephesians as chapter 4 begins with the call “to live a life worthy of the calling you have received” (4:1). This section of Ephesians relates to that call to live worthy. The first part (4:17-24) contrasts the Christian life with the life of “the Gentiles” (literally the surrounding nations). What sort of contrast is Paul outlining in these verses?
- Based on Paul’s instructions, what are some ways that you experience the tension between the old way and the new way of living today? Where is Christ calling you toward righteousness and holiness in your life?
- With the next portion (4:25-5:2), Paul lists a number of ways in which God’s people can “walk in the way of love” (5:2). As you read the various instructions about specific topics, how do you think they relate to living in love with others?
- Which of these instructions stand out to you personally? How might you need to turn away from certain actions contrary to God’s will and turn toward certain right actions characteristic of God’s love? How will you do that this week in a specific way?
- A third portion of this passage (5:3-14) is built around the contrast between light and darkness. Why do you think light is a good description of the new life for God’s people in Christ based on what Paul says here?
- With verses 5:15-20, we find Paul calling the believers to live wisely instead of foolishly in the fourth and final portion of this passage. What characterizes foolish living and what characterizes wise living?
- Throughout this extended look at Christlike living, Paul has mentioned the role of the Holy Spirit, particularly in 4:20 and 5:18. Reread those verses now. What is the role of the Holy Spirit in this outline of Christlike living as we live worthy of our calling in Christ?
- Take some time in prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to shape the life of Christ within you. Perhaps you want to take one area of growth that caught your attention in this study and bring it specifically to God in prayer. Don’t rush. Intercede for yourself, and for the rest of God’s people, to grow in the everyday life of faith.
- What is one thing that stands out to you or that you sense God is speaking to you today from this study? If you are in a group, share your experiences together, taking time to pray for one another. If you are studying on your own, write down some of the words God spoke to you and take them to prayer throughout the week.