I know I'm moving backwards in Ephesians, but I wanted to spend a little more time on this idea of living in Christ and as I continued to read I found an interesting point that Paul makes with this passage from chapter four to five.
The way we came to know Christ is by hearing of him and being taught truth. It's no wonder then that he gives such a strong challenge to keep what we say in check. It should build up, edify and encourage because words are powerful. If they can bring truth and encourage they can also divide and destroy.
Ephesians 4:20-29
20You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. 21Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. 22You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
25Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26"In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27and do not give the devil a foothold. 28He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.
29Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
Questions
1. Why do you think this passage is so interested in what we say?
2. How have you experienced the power of words in your own life?
3. What did you learn today?
No comments:
Post a Comment