Have No Part In
Visualize
Read Ephesians chapter 5 in it’s entirety several times to understand the overall message. Then focus in on Ephesians 5: 3-14
Define
On pages 186-187, you will find Thayer’s Greek Definitions for:
- Fornication
- Uncleanness
- Covetousness
Using Strong’s Concordance, look up the following:
- Filthiness
- Foolish talking
- Coarse jesting
Embrace
In Ephesians 5, Paul cuts straight to the root of how we should act as children of God.
“For YOU MAY BE SURE OF THIS, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolator), has NO inheritance in the Kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one DECEIVE YOU WITH EMPTY WORDS, for because of these things [those listed above] the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience.” Eph 5:5-6 ESV [emphasis added]
There’s not much in this world we can be sure of, but Paul says “you may be sure of this” – those engaged in sexual immorality, lustful living, and greedy desire are not part of God’s Kingdom.
Almost as important, Paul warns us not to be deceived by empty words. The greek word for empty is Kenos which means void of truth. Paul wants us to be diligent in who we listen to; not to be swayed by words void of God’s truth – do not be persuaded to participate in a lifestyle of sin based on the cunning deception of someone else.
Our standard of truth is God’s Word, not how well the sentiment resonants with the greedy desire of those around us or even within our own heart.
If God’s Word says do it – then do it. If God’s Word says run from it – then run, fast!
A lifestyle of habitual sin consists of behavior that goes against the Word of God. — Jenifer Jernigan, Dive Deeper
- Using Ephesians 5:3-7, list the behaviors Paul says a believer is to have no part in.
- Why does Paul say no person who is involved in habitual sin will inherit the kingdom of God?
Now that Paul shows us how we shouldn’t act, he turns his attention to the ways in which we should conduct ourselves in verses 7-11. His message on how we should live is just as straightforward as before – do not become partners with them [those that participate in fornication].
Paul encourages us to remember Who we represent – God, our Creator; Jesus, our Savior; and the Holy Spirit, the one who empowers us to live according to God’s Word – and to walk as children of light (vs 8).
In the last portion of our study, Paul admonishes us to expose sin. This can be tricky, because I do not believe God intends for us to initially embarrass another sister in Christ by airing her dirty laundry for the whole town to see as our first course of action.
In fact, Hebrews 3:13 and 1 Peter 4:8 tells us to encourage and keep loving one another so we are not deceived and hardened by sin (you can read these verses here). Other verses that speak to accountability are: Galatians 6:1-5 , James 5:19-20 and Luke 17:3.
However, here are indeed times when, after encouraging the person and attempting to restore them, they willingly continue to choose a lifestyle of habitual sin. In this case, the Bible is clear – “Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning.” 1 Timothy 5:20 ESV
We should strive to encourage each other and hold each other accountable before either of us is tempted and persuaded into sin. And in times where we see sin needs to be confronted, we should approach it from a heart of love and compassion with the intent to restore and heal and not shame and condemn.
Do you have an accountability sister or small group that can keep you in check?
R.E.A.L. Women Ministries was established for this exact purpose – to cultivate Relationship through Encouragement, Accountability and Love. We would love to have you join this community and our social media so we can encourage each other as we do life together.
Share your Wow moment from Ephesians 5
Paul comes to a serious issue now. If I’m using foul language (my ‘pet’-sin) every time again, I can confess and be sorry, but that doesn’t help if I keep doing it. How to control my anger and not call names at the noisy neighbour? Ofcourse we already talked politely, but the law and landlord say he can make noice by day, so we’re all frustrated. Anyway, how to keep from foul language if you almost feel you can’t help.
Marloes, I totally get this struggle. I have dealt with controlling my anger and my tongue. If find I tend to get angry when I feel frustrated, so I try to remove myself from the situation or conversation to avoid the frustration. It doesn’t always work. Honestly, I fail at it more than not, but I confess my sin, accept God’s forgiveness and start over.
I will keep this issue with your neighbor in prayer and ask God to give you His peace and words to speak. Sending you hugs from the US all the way to the Netherlands. ((hugs))