Bible Text: Ephesians 5:1-6 | Preacher: Pastor Joe Ricchuiti | Series: Ephesians, The Family Resemblance

1.  Paul continues to teach what is involved in a Christian’s “worthy walk” (4:1).  In 5:1-6 this is a life of love (seeking the highest good for another, and an other-centered life,) rather than a life of self-centeredness.

2.  As children of God through faith in Jesus Christ we should imitate our heavenly father, even as a child mimics her/his earthly father.  This means living in love even as Jesus is our example of love.  He gave Himself up for us.  He loved us unconditionally, sacrificially, freely and fully. 

3.  “[Paul] is saying in effect: ‘Copy God, for you are His children whom He loves.  And you too must live in love, such love as Christ’s—to the point of sacrifice.”  “…we are most like God when we live in love.” (Archibald M. Hunter)

4.  Many of the Christians, rather than living in love, were taking advantage of one another morally.  Sexual immorality (sex outside of marriage, pre-marital or extra-marital), impurity, and greed (an uncontrolled desire for something; could be money or sex) should not be even hinted at in the life of the Christian, it is improper for God’s people.