Ephesians 5:3-7 (NKJV) 3 But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; 4 neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not be partakers with them.
Sexual immorality, impurities, greed. Let them not even be named among you.
This is some heavy-hitting stuff. The apostle Paul was very blunt with the Ephesians about this. And oh, how we could use some straightforward talk about these things today!
It’s important that we recognize and understand that Paul wasn’t speaking to the world, unsaved people. He was speaking to the Ephesian Christians! And if it was good for them to hear, it is surely good for us to hear.
Paul then went on to address some other things, such as obscene stories (filthiness), foolish talk and coarse jokes. He bluntly said that these are not fitting for followers of Christ to engage in.
Instead, we should use our mouths to give thanks to God, for His mercy, grace, forgiveness, love and so much more.
You see, it’s important that we understand that no sexually immoral person, no impure person and no greedy person (idolater) will inherit the kingdom of God.
Harsh words? No. Just true words being shared out of love and concern for the body of Christ.
Many times, we try to sidestep these difficult topics because we don’t like what God’s word says. Or we are afraid of hurting someone’s feelings, so we choose to say nothing.
But choosing to say nothing isn’t what we should do. Paul spoke out because he loved the Ephesian Christians! And this is why we share these very tough words today, because we love you and want God’s best for you!
If there are those who would speak empty words to you, to soothe your conscience, pay no attention to them, for they will lead you into God’s wrath.
The ways of the world have crept into the body of Christ and we have begun to embrace some terrible things as being acceptable.
It’s important that we hear the truth, even when it hurts, even when it makes us angry. We can’t correct the error in our lives if we are never told that it’s error. And as long as nobody says anything, we will just coast along, doing what we choose to do.
But we are all accountable to God. We are all responsible for the choices we make as His children.
Let each of us heed His words and His instruction, as well as His warning against these kinds of behavior. Let us seek Him and His forgiveness for our wayward actions and lack of accountability.
God, I seek you and ask for your forgiveness today for the things I have said and done. I have fallen into some terrible behavior and habits. I am truly sorry. Please forgive me and help me to be strong and resist the temptation when it comes. Help me to change my ways and make them pleasing to you. Thank you for loving me and forgiving me. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen
Pastor Curt & Pastor Ellie
Seven Seas Ministries
P.O. Box 272
Bradford, RI 02808
401-315-0902
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