Paul now applies the calling to live worthy of Christ by putting of the old self and putting on the new self to the sphere of relationships. Drawing upon the common household codes of his time, Paul reframes the basic social unit of the household with the Gospel calling of selfless love and consideration of the other. Thus, husband-wife, parent-child, and master-servant relationships are transformed through Christ as His people live by the Holy Spirit in the attitude of mutual submission.
SERMON OUTLINE
“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise.” (Ephesians 5:15)
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” (Ephesians 5:21)
If the Gospel isn’t real at home, it isn’t real.
Three Relational Environments in Which We Demonstrate the Gospel :
- In Our Marriages, We Demonstrate _____________________ to the World (5:22, 25, 33)
- In Parenting Relationships, We Demonstrate _____________________ to the World (6:1-4)
- In the Workplace, We Demonstrate _____________________ to the World (6:5-9)
People should understand the gospel better because of how we live in our relationships.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Open Up:
- Which T.V. family most resembled the family you grew up in? The Brady Bunch? The Flintstones? The Huxtables? Other ________________?
Dig In:
- Read Ephesians 4:1-6:9. How do you think our text for this week, Ephesians 5:21-6:9, fit into this greater context?
- Read Ephesians 5:21-33
- Men: How do you feel about the standards husbands are called to in verses 25 & 28?
- Women: How you feel about the standards wives are called to in verses 22 & 23?
- What do you think is the biggest barrier that keeps us from living these standards out in our relationships?
- Read Ephesians 6:1-3. What logical link can you see between a long and pleasant life and honoring your parents? What impact did your parents have on your current spiritual condition?
- Read Ephesians 6:4-9. As an employee or as a boss, what would you say is the most difficult part about keeping the perspective Paul wants us to have in our jobs? (working as for Christ)
Live it Out:
- What is one thing you see in the passage that God is challenging you on in your heart right now?
- Is there a relationship at home or work that you need to confess some selfishness about, repent and begin to live or work with them in the way God wants you to? If so, what changes can you begin to make?
- Whether they are living or dead, what can you do this week to show honor to your parents?