1)Listen to Podcast
2) GG Questions 02/24/2019
No Oars, Only Sails: No Sleepwalking Ephesians 5:13-16
1. The Unexamined Life: Socrates, it is believed, said the words, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” What did he mean by that? And do you agree with him? Do you see Paul encouraging self-examination in Ephesians 5 (cf. Psa. 139:23-24; 1 Cor. 11:28-29; 2 Cor. 13:5)?
2. Smelly and Shiney: Paul uses two metaphors to describe a Christian’s impact on those around him. The Christian ought to be smelly and shiney! They ought to have a particular, metaphorical aroma about them and exude a unique metaphorical light. Study Ephesians 5:8-14 and look for the role this kind of light in this world. Next build on what Ephesians 5:2 teaches about this fragrance with 2 Corinthians 2:14-17. What is to be the effect of our Christian cologne?
3. These Boots Are Made for Walking: Another metaphor beloved by many biblical authors is ‘life as a journey’ we’re called to walk. Here in Ephesians 5, Paul exhorts us to walk in love (v. 2), to walk as children of light (v. 8), and to walk not as unwise but as wise (v. 15). Elsewhere we’re told to walk by the Spirit (Gal. 5:16) and to walk by faith and not by sight (2 Cor. 5:7) – Peter even walked on water (Matt. 14:29)! 😉 Why is this metaphor so effective? Are there any areas of your life that Ephesians 5 has helped you see where you might be straying from that narrow path?
4. Bad Company: Proverbs 25:26 says “Like a muddied spring or a polluted fountain is a righteous man who gives in to the wicked.” Paul reflects on this muddy water in Ephesians 5:3-4, 12. What does Paul even teach about the way we talk about ‘mud’? Are there times or places where you must cry, with David, “set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!” (Psa. 141:3; cf. 39:1).
