“THEREFORE BE imitators of God (copy Him and follow His example, as well-beloved children {imitate their father}. And walk in love as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us, a slain offering and sacrifice to God (for you, so that it became ) a sweet fragrance. Ephesians 5:2-2
I used to think that when the Bible told me not to do something — like, not to get drunk — it was self-denial for the sake of self-denial. Forsaking “worldly” pleasures was just a way to declare I was a Christian, to set myself apart from the world. However, as I continued to learn and grow I’ve realized there’s more to the story. Faith & Love may start there, but it’s not meant to remain there.
When Paul told us to be imitators of God, as well beloved children imitate their father, he was speaking to us about something far richer than self-denial. It was more about what we are called to BE, rather than what we shouldn’t DO. It’s a DOUBLE-SIDED invitation! If we only focus on one side, “do not be like the world” then there’s much more to discover. Is it possible that the mark upon our lives is not merely what we have forsaken, but rather who we’ve become?
“And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, BUT ever be filled and stimulated with the Holy Spirit” Ephesians 5:18
In the above scripture, this kind of self-denial is not merely a LOSS, but a TRADE — not mainly a FORFEITING, but a FULFILLING. Forsaking drunkenness isn’t just a name tag for righteous Christians. It’s a path to becoming whole! As we forsake opportunities for the flesh, what are we saying YES too?
The answer to this question is found in Ephesians 2. I would encourage you to slowly read and discuss the whole chapter because it’s a gold-mind!
The right posture as a Christian should always be a posture of discovery, one of ever increasing faith! This posture should never take a back seat. So, you can always do a test to any question that you may be pondering. It’s a test of the heart. If the answer lines up with the posture of ever increasing faith and discovery, then your on the right track. If not, it just might be the enemy trying to disguise himself in order to get access into your life.
PRAYER/QUESTIONS:
1. What did you think of Pastor’s message on Sunday? Did it bring any conviction? What is the right response to conviction?
2. What could be other grey areas?
3. Why does Holy Spirit convict? What is He calling you to? (What you focus on is VERY important – if you focus on steak when your not supposed to eat it then you only want it more. Let’s turn our focus on Christ rather than what he’s calling us to forsake)
4. What is the bigger picture? Is it merely about self-denial?
5. Read and discuss Ephesians 2. (The bigger picture is found here)
