EPHESIANS – Mircheal Jones

Eph 01:1-3, 18 RECOGNIZING OUR RICHES
She went down in history as “America’s Greatest Miser,” She ate cold oatmeal because it cost to heat it. Her son had to suffer a leg amputation, because she delayed so long in looking for a free clinic that his case became incurable. She was so foolish that she hastened her own death by bringing on an attack of apoplexy while arguing about the value of drinking skimmed milk! She chose to live like a pauper in spite of the fact that she was wealthy: when she died in 1916, “Hetty” Green left an estate valued at over $100 million!
Hetty Green is an illustration of too many Christian believers today. They have limitless wealth at their disposal and yet they live like paupers. It was to this kind of Christian that Paul wrote the Epistle to the Ephesians.
I. OUR POSITION: SAINTS The Catholic Church says that a Saint is one whose character and conduct are above reproach, who has worked at least Two verifiable miracles, and who is dead!!. Even the dictionary defines a saint as a “person officially recognized for holiness of life”.
This is NOT what the Bible says. Nine times in the book of Ephesians Paul addresses his readers as Saints and it is clear it is used to simply describe “one who has trusted Jesus Christ as Savior”
II. OUR POSSESSIONS AS SAINTS:
God the Father has made us rich in Jesus Christ! When you were born again into God’s family, you were born rich Through Christ, you share in the riches of God’s grace (Eph. 1: 7- 2: 7), God’s glory (Eph. 1:18; 3:16), God’s mercy (Eph. 2:4), and “the unsearchable riches of Christ” (Eph 3:8). Our Heavenly Father is not poor; He is rich-and He has made us rich in His Son.
WE INHERIT GOD’S WEALTH BY FAITH AND WE INVEST GOD’S WEALTH BY WORKS. Without this balance, our Spiritual riches do us no good. Too many Christians are either Absence from Church services, Absence from Service for Christ, or only present in Church to be served.
The believer is made the righteousness of God in Him (2 Cor 5:21); he is accepted in the beloved (Eph 1:6); he is brought near to God in Christ Jesus (Eph 2!3); he is loved as Christ is loved (John 17:16); and he is heard when he prays (John 14:14).
Christ wrote us into His will, then He died so the will would be in force. Then He arose again that He might become the heavenly Advocate (lawyer) to make sure the terms of the will were correctly followed!!
When God wrote the “second letter to Ephesus” in Revelation chapter two, He told them (broken heartedly) that they had left their first love. Given all the riches of God, they had begun to live like paupers. Our heart would break for them if we didn’t see the same situation happening in churches today.
1. Riches of SERVICE- Greatest of all is servant of all
Riches of Salvation-
Riches of Spirit-
Riches of Scripture-
2. Riches from THE FATHER:
He has Chosen us 3-4
He has adopted us 5
He has accepted us 6
3. Riches from the SON:
He has redeemed us 7a
He has forgiven us 7b
He has revealed God’s will to us 8-10
He has made us an inheritance 11-12
4. Riches from the SPIRIT:
He has sealed us 13
He has become our “Down Payment” 14
1) What would STEAL OUR LOVE, and our enjoyment of the riches of God?
Personal Problems- Job, Family, Finances
Physical Problems- Stress, Sickness,
Spiritual Problems- Sin, Lukewarm (wax cold)
2) What would STEAL OUR PURPOSE- We must leave the Good and seek the Best
3) What would STEAL OUR PEACE- Fear- The Christian begins to find the Abundant Life when he learns how much he means to God. Salvation is not fearing God’s rejection but enjoying God’s provision.
Why would we fail to enjoy our Riches:
1. Lack of FAITH- Disbelief
2. FEAR- Went and hid Talent
3. FAILURE to see what is ours- Eph 1:18

Eph 01:1-14 THE CHRISTIAN’S WEALTH

Story of man who used huge rock he found near his home in South Africa for a door step until one day the wear and tear of everyday use revealed a diamond. Upon breaking apart the rock the man found several diamonds and went from poverty to plenty. But for a while he had been using “diamonds” as a doorstep!
Ephesians 1:1-14 Ephesians is one of the greatest Books in the Bible. It should be read and studied often. It has 3 main divisions: 1) Our WEALTH in Christ [1-3]; 2) Our WALK as Christians [4:-6:9]; and 3) Our WARFARE as Believers [6:10-24]. Paul begins this letter with Doctrine and goes to Duty (He knew that what you Believe determines what you Do). Paul starts this letter by describing the Wealth we have as Christians. He does this by showing what God did FOR us and then shows the RICHES we received as a result of becoming Part of God’s Family.
I. CHOSEN BY THE FATHER (3-7) WHY? “To the Praise of the glory of His Grace” vs 6 Paul describes this Wealth in relationship to:
A) Our Possessions- We have been Blessed with all SPIRITUAL Blessings in heavenly places in Christ. We have heavenly wealth today! (Remember that God paves His streets with Gold and “Throws” jewels on His walls. Real wealth is Joy, Peace, etc)
B) Our Position- Chosen us in Christ
1. When: before the foundation of the world
2. Why: that we should be holy and without blame before him in love
We are “accepted in the beloved” vs 6 Only He WOULD accept sinful creatures like us!! (Salvation is not a REWARD for Faith but a RESULT of God’s Grace.) [Saved by Grace THROUGH Faith]
C) Our Predestination- “For He foreordained us (destined us, planned in love for us) to be adopted (revealed) as His own children through Jesus Christ, in accordance with the purpose of His will- because it pleased Him and was His kind intent;” (vs 5 amp bible) God chose us before we ever chose Him!! We do not force God to accept us; we, by Faith, accept the fact that HE has chosen us.
God determined from the beginning to make us full grown sons in Christ! [Divine Election: Chosen and Predestinated simply means that God determined from the beginning to accept all who come to Him by Faith in Christ. In His all knowing Knowledge He knew who this would be but His knowledge did not cause it to be. Whosoever WILL May come and be saved].
II. REDEEMED BY THE SON (8-12) Why? “That we should be to the Praise of His glory” vs 12 Our Wealth in Christ is:
A) Payment for our Sins- “Redemption through his blood”
B) Pardon for our Sinfulness- “The forgiveness of sins”. How much Forgiveness? “according to the riches of his grace”. That’s Rich!!
C) Provision for our Service- Abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence (Practical insight and understanding) Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself;
D) Plans for our future- That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in Him. IN WHOM WE HAVE OBTAINED AN INHERITANCE.
Jesus wrote us into His will. Then He died so the will would be in force. Then He arose again that He might become the heavenly Advocate (lawyer) to make sure the terms of the will were correctly followed!!
III. SEALED BY THE SPIRIT 13-14 Why? “unto the praise of his glory”
A) The Spirit is God’s “Brand” on his Children (See Rom 8:9)
B) The Spirit is God’s “Earnest” (Down payment) on our inheritance until we finally arrive in God’s presence. So the Spirit Marks us as God’s Property and guarantees God’s Purchase of us.
Why do we live is such poverty of depression and despair when God has Promised and Provided us so much wealth???
Why would we fail to enjoy our Riches as Christians?
1. Lack of FAITH- Disbelief. Yea, they turned back and tempted God, and limited the Holy One of Israel. (Psalms 78:41).
2. FEAR- The Servant who Went and hid Talent
3. FAILURE to see what is ours- Eph 1:18
She went down in history as “America’s Greatest Miser,” She ate cold oatmeal because it cost to heat it. Her son had to suffer a leg amputation, because she delayed so long in looking for a free clinic that his case became incurable. She was so foolish that she hastened her own death by bringing on an attack of apoplexy while arguing about the value of drinking skimmed milk! She chose to live like a pauper in spite of the fact that she was wealthy: when she died in 1916, “Hetty” Green left an estate valued at over $100 million!
Hetty Green is an illustration of too many Christian believers today. They have limitless wealth at their disposal and yet they live like paupers.

Eph 01:1-14 The Christian’s Wealth
Ephesians is one of the greatest Books in the Bible. It should be read and studied often. It has 3 main divisions: 1) Our WEALTH in Christ [1‑3]; 2) Our WALK as Christians [4:‑6:9]; and 3) Our WARFARE as Christians [6:10‑24]. Paul begins this letter with Doctrine and goes to Duty (He knew that what you Believe determines what you Do). Paul starts this letter by describing the Wealth we have as
Christians. He does this by showing what God did for us and then shows what we received as a result of that.
I. CHOSEN BY THE FATHER (3‑7) WHY? “To the Praise of the glory of His Grace” vs 6 Paul describes this Wealth in relationship to:
A) Our Possessions- We have been Blessed with all Spiritual Blessings in heavenly places in Christ. We have heavenly wealth today! (Remember that God paves His streets with Gold and “Throws” jewels on His walls. Real wealth is Joy, Peace, etc)
B) Our Position- Chosen us in Christ
1. When: before the foundation of the world
2. Why: that we should be holy and without blame before him in love
We are “accepted in the beloved” vs 6 Only He WOULD accept sinful creatures like us!! (Salvation is not a REWARD for Faith but a RESULT of God’s Grace. God chose us before we ever chose Him!! We do not force God to accept us; we, by Faith, accept the fact that HE has chosen us.)
C) Our Predestination- “For He foreordained us (destined us, planned in love for us) to be adopted (revealed) as His own children through Jesus Christ, in accordance with the purpose of His will- because it pleased Him and was His kind intent;” (vs 5 amp bible) God determined from the beginning to make us full grown sons in Christ! [Divine Election: Chosen and Predestinated simply means that God determined from the beginning to accept all who come to Him by Faith in Christ. In His all knowing Knowledge He knew who this would be but His knowledge did not cause it to be. Whosoever WILL May come and be saved].
II. REDEEMED BY THE SON (8‑12) Why? “That we should be to the Praise of His glory” vs 12 Our Wealth in Christ is:
A) Payment for our Sins- “Redemption through his blood”
B) Pardon for our Sinfulness- “The forgiveness of sins”. How much Forgiveness? “according to the riches of his grace”. That’s Rich!!
C) Provision for our Service- Abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence (Practical insight and understanding) Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself;
D) Plans for our future- That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in Him. IN WHOM WE HAVE OBTAINED AN INHERITANCE.
III. SEALED BY THE SPIRIT 13‑14 Why? “unto the praise of his glory”
A) The Spirit is God’s “Brand” on his Children (See Rom 8:9)
B) The Spirit is God’s “Earnest” (Down payment) on our inheritance until we finally arrive in God’s presence. So the Spirit Marks us as God’s Property and guarantees God’s Purchase of us.
Why do we live is such poverty of depression and despair when God has Promised and Provided us so much wealth???

Eph 01:15-23 Paul’s Prayer for the Ephesians
I. THINGS PAUL PRAISED FOR vs 15‑16 Fellow Saints (When’s the last time you spent time praising God for fellow Christians??)
A) Their Faith in The Savior
B) Their Love for Fellow Saints
II. THINGS PAUL PRAYED FOR vs 17‑23
A) Revelation of the Person of Christ‑ That God may give unto you the spirit of Wisdom and Revelation in the knowledge of Him.
Christianity is not a Religion; it is a PERSON‑ Paul prayed that the Ephesian Church would “See” Christ to the point that they could KNOW Him [Paul later told the Philippian Church I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: Phil 3:8]. What a great difference it would make in the average Church if the members could really come to KNOW Christ. Sadly, today most Church members know Christ as some giver of Principles instead of as a Person they have a Relationship with.
B) Revelation of what we have in Christ‑ The Eyes of your understanding being enlightened. (Paul is not praying for us to get these things‑‑ HE WANTS US TO SEE WE’VE ALREADY GOT THEM!!!)
1. A PROMISE TO CLING TO: Hope of His calling– Not a dream or a desire but the confidence of God’s Call:
a. on our life and
b. His future Call for us to go home with Him.
2. A PRIVILEGE TO REST IN: Riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints‑ God thought we were worth Christ dying for!!! The world will be destroyed but God will “brag” about us.
3. A POWER TO WORK WITH: The exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe.
a. Resurrection power‑ which he wrought in Christ when he raised him from the dead. Even Enemy “Death” destroyed.
b. Conquering Power‑ hath put all things under his feet, Power to not only DEFEAT but also to DELIVER
C) Realization of our part in God’s Plan‑ The Church is the Body of Christ; He is the Head and we are the working members of His Body (Christ did not simply “Conquer” a Sin cursed World; He set up a new order to show righteousness and God’s Glory). Our Power and our Position (As recipients of God’s Goodness) are a result of our relationship to Christ. The Church is not Great because of what it DOES but because of WHOSE IT IS!!

Eph 01:15-23 THINGS CHRISTIANS NEED TO SEE
INTRO- This is one of the 2 great Prayers in Ephesians. Paul was a man of Prayer (as Christ was, See Gospel of Luke) and we must be, if we are to accomplish anything for God. You’ll never be a better Christian than your Prayer Life.
I. THE PRAISEWORTHINESS OF OTHERS– Eph 1:15-16 Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, 16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;
A) They believe in the same Lord
B) They are all part of the Body of Christ
(When’s the last time you told God how thankful you were for the Church; and the Church how thankful you were to be part of the Family!)
II. THE PROVISIONS THAT ARE OURS IN CHRIST– Eph 1:17-23 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: 18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, 19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, 20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, 21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: 22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, 23 Which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all.
A) We need to KNOW the Savior (See Phil 3:8-10); Not just ABOUT Him.
B) We need to have improved Spiritual Sight
1> To Know what is the Hope of His Calling (We’re called to Salvation; and from Salvation unto Service)
a. It is a High Calling Phil 3:14 (Our Goal)
b. It is a Holy Calling II Tim 1:9 (Our Purpose)
c. It is a Heavenly Calling Heb 3:1 (Our Strength in Trouble)
d. And if we see the Hope of His calling we’ll walk worthy Ep 4:1
2> What is the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints?? We are GOD’S inheritance. What riches of glory will be heaped on God thru the endless ages by joyful loving Saints for His Mercy and Grace!) (We can begin giving God some of His inheritance now!)
3> What is the exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe
a. The Power that raised Christ from the dead (conquering the Grave)
b. The Power that overcame all the might that Satan and his demons could throw against him.
c. The Power that is His as the Head of the Church Body (He is the Head and All in All)
May God open our eyes to see the Praiseworthiness of others and the Provisions that are ours in Christ. If we can but see how much God Loves us, and how much He paid for us, it will change our attitude toward the value of others; and we’ll realize how important the little things we do for God really are.

Eph 01:18-23 3 THINGS EVERY CHRISTIAN NEEDS TO SEE
The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all. — Eph 1:18-23
Jesus said that one of the problems with men was that they “had eyes to see and yet did not see”. Let’s see if that’s true of this congregation- Each of you will be asked 5 questions about something or someone in this room. Let’s see how many of you really “Saw”.
Now that we know how dim our physical vision is let’s see if our Spiritual vision is equally as dim- What great riches the average Christian misses because he doesn’t know what he has in Christ.
In all of Paul’s Epistle Prayers he constantly asks for Spiritual growth instead of physical needs for his people. Which are we more concerned with?
1. THE HOPE OF HIS CALLING– The Confident Expectation we have based upon His calling us into Salvation and Service
This will keep us Pure- And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. 1 John 3:3
2. THE RICHES OF HIS GLORY– his inheritance in his saints.
3. THE EXCEEDING GREATNESS OF HIS POWER TOWARD US THAT BELIEVE

Eph 01:22-23 THE CHURCH’S MISSION
The Church is a place to:
WORSHIP with our Hearts and Pocketbooks
WORK at our calling. Jer 48:10 Cursed be he that doeth the work of the LORD deceitfully, and cursed be he that keepeth back his sword from blood. Soldier who was knocked out in battle and later brought in a large number of prisoners – “There are plenty of them out there if you only go get them.”
WRESTLE in prayer against Pain, Persecution, Evil Principalities and Satanic Powers
WITNESS Of and For God
REPENT of loose living and of lack of salvation Acts 17:22-32
Repent because of Judgment to Come- Vs 31
Man’s Failures: Mt 9:13 But go ye and learn what tha] meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
God’s Goodness: Ro 2:4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?
Soul’s Conviction: 2Co 7:10 For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.
2Pe 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
YOU WILL NOT BLAME ANYONE FOR HELL BUT YOU
Growth must face reality- how big can the ministry grow without killing the Pastor or the Program. Where do you sense God is at work in the ministry? Effective ministry is an overflow.

Eph 02:1-10 DOOMED OR DELIVERED
I. WHAT WE WERE:
1. Dead‑ Because we’re Separated from God, who is life
How do you Tell if a Person is Dead?? Difference between Fence post and Tree, Stone and Seed- Fruit
2. Disobedient‑ We ran from and disobeyed God
A) Sin Nature‑ Rom 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God
1> trespasses (Falling aside from God’s Will)‑What we Did, Actions
2> Sin (Missing the Mark of God’s Will)‑ What we Are, Nature.
Ps 51:5 Behold I was shapen in iniquity and in sin did my mother conceive me.
Ps 58:3 The wicked are estranged from the womb: they go astray as soon as they are born, speaking lies.
B) World’s Pressure‑ conform to the world’s standards
C) Satan’s Power‑ Prince of the power of the air‑
1) Blinds us‑ II Cor 4:4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
2) Intrigues us‑ II Cor 10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
3 Confuses us‑ II Cor 11:13‑15 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.
THE GLORY OF SALVATION IS THAT the Blood saves us from Sin’s Penalty while the Power of the Spirit delivers us from Sin’s Power.
3. Doomed‑ What resulted‑ Children of Wrath. Without God in this world and without hope in the next.
II. WHAT GOD DID 4‑6 “But God”
A) Why He Did it‑ Rich in Mercy/ Loved us
B) What HE did:
1. Quickened us together with Christ (Brought us to life thru faith in Christ’s Sacrifice) LIFE
2. Raised us up together and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus‑ heirs and jointheirs with Christ
ABILITY TO LIVE
III. WHAT WE ARE SUPPOSED TO DO 7‑10
A) Be Trophies for God in the Ages to come
B) Be Workers for the Lord now according to the plan He has for us
C) Accept it all by Faith‑ not our goodness, or ability but God’s Grace.
ARE YOU DOOMED OR DELIVERED??

Eph 02:1-10 GOD’S RICHES
(Pastor’s Conf- Sonaphur, India 6-4-01)
Brother Carlisle told me of a place where the doors are gold, silver, and ivory. That is rich but not as rich as God who puts gold on His streets and jewels on His walls. This is not the way God counts His riches, however.
God is rich in Glory: But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19).
God is rich in Goodness: Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? (Romans 2:4).
God is rich in Wisdom: O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! (Romans 11:33).
God is rich in Mercy: But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, (Ephesians 2:4).
God is rich in Grace: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:7).
How does God spend His Riches vs 8-10
He saves Lost People: For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast (Ephesians 2:8-9).
He makes us His Song: For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them (Ephesians 2:10). “Workmanship” is from a word meaning “song”.
“Created in Christ Jesus unto good works: The Song of our life for Christ is demonstrated by the tune that comes from the works of our life.
“Which God has before ordained that we should walk in them”: God “picked out the song of our life” before He created us!

Eph 02:1-10 THE WAY INTO THE CHURCH
Having told the Ephesians of the Wealth that belongs to the Church and Prayed for them to increase in the Knowledge and Power of Christ, Paul now tells us how we can be a Part of such a wonderful Organization. He does so by telling us What we were, How God changed us, and then telling Why God has done such a marvelous thing.
I. OUR OLD LIFE 2:1‑3
A) Our State: Dead in trespasses and sins (Separated from God because of What we did [trespasses] and Who we were [sinned because we were sinners]).
B) Our “Superiors”: Walked according to:
1. the course of this world (The World’s Pressure)
2. the prince of the power of the air, (World’s Prince)
3. the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience
C) Our Situation:
1. Manner of life lived according to the desires of the flesh
2. Our “Will” was to satisfy our Desires (Desires of the Flesh‑ Earth‑bound Appetites; Desires of the Mind‑ Earth‑bound Attitudes)
3. By nature the children of wrath (You don’t teach a man to sin‑ you warn him to avoid it. He NATURALLY goes to sin because of his sinful nature.
II. OUR NEW LIFE 2:4‑6 “But God…”
A) The Reason for God’s Grace:
1. God is rich in Mercy (He OWNS everything but lists mercy!)
2. His great love wherewith he loved us‑ Only HE COULD or WOULD love people in our sinful condition.
B) The Result of God’s Grace:
1. Quickened us together with Christ; by whose grace ye are saved (New Life)
2. Raised us together (with Christ) (New Living)
3. Made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus
III. GOD’S MASTERPIECE 2:7‑10
A) For Display‑ 7‑9 That in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. Because Salvation is ALL of God‑ By Grace through Faith, not of works lest any man boast
B) For Works‑ 10
1. We are God’s Workmanship‑ Greek word is “Masterpiece”. The God of the Universe who creates worlds with His words considers redeemed man His Masterpiece!! When God “Shows Off” He doesn’t show the marvels of nature or the universe‑ He displays Us!!
2. God saved us by the Sacrifice of Christ Jesus that we should perform the good works He planned for us. Salvation is not simply deliverance from Sin’s PENALTY but it is also for God’s PURPOSE!
ARE YOU DEAD?? OR DELIVERED??

Eph 02:8-10 HOW IS YOUR WALK?
The Witnessing Walk of Brother Buster led me to accept Christ- (Phil 3:17‑18) Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. {18} (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:
You need a:
1) WORKING WALK- (Eph 2:8‑10) For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: {9} Not of works, lest any man should boast. {10} For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
2) WORTHY WALK– (Eph 4:1) I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,
3) WATCHFUL WALK– (Eph 5:15) See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Step on Snake
4) WILLING WALK– Spurgeon- What a man does against his will is not in truth done by himself at all- (Eph 5:2) And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.
THERE IS ONE OTHER WALK TO BE AWARE OF:
5) WICKED WALK– (Eph 2:2‑3) Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: {3} Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.
End of this walk is destruction, misery, and pain. No help in this world and no hope in next!

April 7, 2015 WALK
The word “Walk” is used in the Bible to describe our daily living for the Lord. Here are seven ways to live that walk.
1. WALK CONVERTED: Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life (Rom 6:4). “Dead Men” cannot walk a living life. You must be born again.
2. WALK CORRECTLY: And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless (Luke 1:6).
3. WALK CALLED: I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called (Eph 4:1). God’s purpose for you should be your life plan.
4. WALK CIRCUMSPECTLY: See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise (Eph 5:15). Circumspectly means “looking around” and it implies we need to be careful little feet where we go.
5. WALK IN COMPANIONSHIP: Can two walk together, except they be agreed? (Amos 3:3)
6. WALK CLEARLY: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin (1 John 1:7).
7. WALK TO BE “CAUGHT UP“: And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him (Gen 5:24)

Eph 3:8-12 BECOMING A GREAT CHURCH FOR GOD
Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. (Ephesians 3:8-12)
Three years ago I arrived at Lebanon FWB Church in Effingham as Assistant Pastor to a Rookie Pastor who had just been licensed into the Ministry. Our attendance that Sunday was 130. Three years later our Attendance on my Last Sunday as Assistant Pastor was 501. We have moved out of the old Sanctuary, remodeled the former Family Life Center, and are in the process of building a new 70 feet by 140 foot Family Life Center. We averaged baptizing over 30 people each year and our Wednesday Nite services normally involved between 75- 100 youth in addition to adults. God had done great things for us.
Today I want to share some principles from this church that can be used in any Church in order to change you from a struggling Church into a Great Church that will honor a Great God. REMEMBER THE OBJECTIVE IS CHURCH HEALTH. A Healthy Church is a growing Church.
Recognize the Problem– The Problem is not your Pastor, the People, your location, your finances, or your music. There are 2 problems that hinder Churches:
The Devil- For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (Ephesians 6:12). The Devils defeats Christians with Disappointments, Discouragements, Distractions, Deceit, Division, Defilement, Defaming Others (Accuser of the Brethern), Disobedience, Doubt, and Delay.
Dullness of Heart– Loss of Vision and Lukewarm living.
Believe in Your Potential- Best Church in South Carolina. Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. (Proverbs 29:18)
DESIRE to change- Find the Purpose (Where is God at work?) and join God at His work.
DETERMINE to change-
Celebrate Victories to Honor God
Organize for Victories (500 Sunday: 60 people who parked, greeters, gifts, nursery, children’s church, altar workers, music, and toilets.
Pray for Victories.
Anticipate Victories.
DO what it takes to change- Last recorded words of Mary John 2:5 “Whatsoever he saith unto you, Do it.”
Change Church’s Vision of Church “Best Church in S C”
Change Community’s Vision of Church- Why do you exist?
Change Christ’s Vision of the Church- Luke Warm
Friendship Church in India has Power in the Yard but is not hooked up to the power. Everything is there except the Power. Do not let that be said about your Church. Do YOU need to make changes in Your Life? Are you facing Physical, Financial, or Spiritual Problems? Let me read to you about a man who found the answer to all of these- Acts 3:2-12

Eph 03:10 11 THE CHURCH
(Ephesians 3:10 11) To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: [In old days tomatoes were cooked in lead pots. The acid in the tomato ate the lead and caused lead poisoning so people blamed the tomato and stopped eating them. Finally a man in Columbus, Ohio ate one on the court steps. In the same way today the Church is being blamed for the Pot it is served in!]
The word “Church” is only found in the New Testament- 79 times (115 if you count the plural). It is found only twice in the gospels- Mt 16:18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
Mt 18:17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.
The word “Church” is found extensively in Acts, in all of Paul’s letters (Although it is only used in his greeting several times- 2Th 1:1 Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ:- but only once in James’ letter and in Peter’s second letter. It is not mentioned in John’s first two letters and is last mentioned in Re 3:14 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God;
1577. ekklhsia ekklesia, ek klay see’ ah a calling out assembly.

We live in a society under attack- Terror circles our shores seeking an opportunity to attack and kill but we still have the power and ability to keep most of it at bay. Inside the walls of our ivory palace, however, the foundations are crumbling and decaying.
1) Families are faltering (Divorce, disunion, different lives lived under the same roof).
2) Moral standards are falling deeper into the pig pen of sin governed only by the god of pleasure (if it feels good do it) and the overwhelming need to be accepted as whatever the cost (Crude language, nudity, the “shock Principle”- Notice me!
3) Exhaustion has become the common complaint of all age groups so they use the excuse of needing rest to sit before the mind numbing, soul hardening idol of TV night after night.
Where does a Church fit into this picture? Are we an out dated institution no longer effective and that exists only because no one has the will power to pull the plug and let it die a natural death! Is the Church still needed today?
I. The PURPOSE of the Church-NOT– a Moral Police force to made people do better (Jesus called us LIGHT (to Reveal and Draw) and SALT (To purify and protect). A called our assembly where we:
A) WORSHIP God
B) WORK together to advance God=s Kingdom
C) WRESTLE Satan and his demons to overcome his attacks on our bodies, families, and faith
D) WITNESS of God’s ability to forgive your past and change your future.
II. The PERSON of the Church– Jesus Christ. Other religions offer wisdom and enlightenment as they urge you to try to do better. Jesus declares that you are a sinner who cannot save himself and can never get good enough to please a perfect God. Do He DIED to pay the debt you owed.
Other religions talk about the possibility of coming back as a butterfly if you learn their lessons well. Jesus walked out of the tomb and said He was going to prepare a Heavenly Home for all who would trust Him as Savior and follow Him as Lord.
The Church is a life boat seeking to rescue people drowning in the stormy sea surrounding them. We don’t offer you a better world; we offer you a NEW world where you will be able to know real love, real pleasure, and real peace.

Eph 3:13-21 PAUL’S POSSESSION PRAYER
Paul has been telling the Ephesians about their Wealth in Christ, the Wonder of Salvation, and the Way into the Church. He now closes the first half of his epistle with a tremendous Prayer that the Ephesians would POSSESS the wonderful Wealth of Christ instead of simply Perceive it.
I. THE REASON FOR THE PRAYER 13-15
A) Paul feared that the Ephesians would begin to “Faint” because of the trouble he was having to undergo for his stand for Christ (Persecution from the Jews and from the Roman Government).
B) So he humbly makes his prayer in the authority of the name of Christ of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named. Jew and Gentile have only one way to Heaven and for answered Prayer and that is Christ. Therefore, We must be one!!
II. THE RESULTS EXPECTED FROM THE PRAYER 16-19 In Paul’s Prayer in Chapter 1:15-23 he wants the People “To Know”; In this Prayer he wants them “To Have”- and there are 3 things he wants them to have:
1. STRENGTH vs 16-17A
a. The Amount- According to the riches of his glory
b. The Source- By His Spirit in the inner man
c. The Purpose- That Christ may dwell in your heart by Faith
(This is why we want to be filled with the Spirit– not to be “Super Saints”, but to have Christ feel at Home in our Heart!! This will result in them understanding and obtaining the power Paul prayed for them to know about in 1:19). In Practical terms this means it is no longer “I” fighting Temptation, Trials, and Troubles but Christ that dwells in me- and that’s the difference between defeat and victory
2. STABILITY vs 17B- 19A
a. Rooted and grounded in love- toward fellow Saints
b. Realize the vastness of Christ’s love, which can only be known thru personal relationship (not mental ability).
3. SATURATION vs 19B-21 Filled with all the fullness of God!! (Col 2:9-10A For in Him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily…and ye are complete (Filled Full) in Him, )
So Paul prayed for the Ephesians to know that their Strength is in Christ, their Stability is in the Love of Christ, and their Goal should be to be Saturated with Christ
III. THE REJOICING IN GOD’S ABILITY TO ANSWER 20-21
1. God’s Ability- vs 20 in Amp Bible: Now to Him who, by consequence of the action of His power that is at work within us, is able to carry out His purpose and to do superabundantly, far over and above all that we dare ask or think- infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes or dreams. WE CAN’T EVEN THINK ABOUT OR ASK AS MUCH AS GOD IS ABLE TO DO FOR US!!
2. God’s Praise- All the Power and Provision God makes available is ours so that we can bring Glory to God throughout all ages.
DO YOU SIMPLY KNOW ABOUT GOD’S WEALTH??/ OR DO YOU POSSESS THE FULLNESS OF GOD??

Ephesians 4:1-16 WALKING WORTHY
Having told the Ephesians about the Wealth they had in Christ, Paul now goes into the Practical duties that should result in the life of a Christian because of that knowledge- Doctrine must now be translated into Duty.
Paul divides the chapter into major thoughts about our Walk-
I. WALK WORTHY OF YOUR CALLING 1-16
II. WALK WORTHY IN YOUR CONDUCT 17-32
I. WALK WORTHY OF YOUR CALLING 1-16
A) The Manner of the Walk- 1-2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love.
B) The Method of the Walk- 3-6 Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Unity based on Union; not Uniformity!
C) The Measure of the Walk- 7 Grace according to the Gift given you
D) The Ministry of the Walk- 8-16
1. Christ distributed to the Church certain “gifts” in the form of Ministers:
a. apostles [Must have seen the Lord- none left]
b. prophets [Fore Tell and Forth Tell events]
c. evangelists [traveling ministers]
d. pastor/teachers [shepherds]
2. The Purpose of these Ministers is:
a. The Perfecting (Maturing) of the saints
b. The Work of the Ministry
c. The Edifying of the body of Christ- Building up the Body
3. The Goal of these Ministers is:
a. Unifying everyone in the Faith and Knowledge of Christ that they might become the mature person God intended- as measured by the example of Christ
b. Informing every one of the Faith so they will
1] Not be misled by false doctrine, deceivers, or deceit
2] Sincerely teach and grow as the Body of Christ; realizing that as every part performs it function it not only builds up itself but also all the Body.
What a great Principle Paul begins with- Not only did God chose to make us His Wealth, and give us His wealth one day; He also supplied the Means for the Church to function in this sinful world as we prepare for His return!!.

Eph 4:17-32 WALKING WORTHY IN YOUR CONDUCT
Having told the Ephesians how to walk worthy of their calling from the Lord, Paul now tells them to give the proper example to the World in their conduct (Conduct based on the changes wrought by the Spirit; not worked up by the Flesh).
I. THE WAY THE WORLD WALKS 17-19 The Unsaved are governed by:
A) Prideful Thinking: In the Vanity of their mind- (Hast not God made foolish the wisdom of this world.)
B) Mental Blindness: Having the Understanding Darkened
C) Spiritual Death: Being Alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them because of the blindness of their heart
D) Seared Conscience: Past Feeling, having given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness
WITHOUT REGARD TO GOD OR HIS PLAN FOR YOUR LIFE
II. THE WAY WE ARE TO WALK 20-32 (The way we learned from Christ)
A) Put Off the Old Man- We used to obey the old sinful nature but now we have become servants of Christ (As if you shed dirty clothes)
B) Be Renewed in the Spirit of your Mind- The Holy Spirit begins his work within us of transforming us into Christians
C) Put on the New Man- Created in righteousness and true Holiness by God. (The danger many face is that they “Put Off” without “Putting on” and a void is left in their life- a void that Satan will soon fill with 7 demons worst that the first). [God does not remove sin’s pull when we are saved. He gives us strength to resist and points us to the new mind in Christ where Sin cannot control us.
We are to ask God to change our habits as well as our heart].
THE EXAMPLE- 25-29 (Good moral people stop doing wrong. Christians start doing right).

THINGS TO STOP	REPLACE THEM WITH	WHY
25- Lying	Speak the Truth	We are members together
26-27 Anger	Dealing with issues	No Place for the Devil
28 Stealing	Labor for needy	Selfishness to service
29 Gossiping	Build up with talk	Witness to world

THE EXHORTATIONS: 30-32
1. Grieve not the Holy Spirit- Don’t let your actions hurt the Spirit that lives within you now.
2. Give up the Self Life- Lay aside all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamour, evil speaking, and all malice
. Have Grace as a Christian- Be kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.
Rom 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethern, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Eph 04:17-19 THE PAIN OF PORNOGRAPHY
(Some of this Material is taken from our Teen Class Lesson; from “Issues From the Edge” by Gospel Light Press- Excellent Book)
Eph 4:17-19 (P1605) So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. 18 They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. 19 Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more.
Pornography affects the lives of everyone. We are bombarded with it in ads, books, TV, and Movies. We are lured to it by Societies fixation on it and by our own sinful cravings. If it does not affect us then we must deal with others who are affected by it. Today I want to look at the Pain that Pornography causes and determine how we as Christians should react to it’s increasing prevalence in Society.
Pornography comes from a Greek word meaning “Whore-writing” or descriptions of the activities of whores. It is the representation of sexually explicit behavior intended to arouse sexual excitement.
“Only 10% of Pornography depicts normal heterosexual activities between one man and one woman (normally not married to each other). Over 90 percent depicts perverted sex including group sex, rape, incest, mutilation, torture, sex with animals, sadomasochistic activities, bondage, homosexuality, child molestation, eating and drinking of body waste, and even murder in “Snuff films”.” (Adapted from the “California Care Coalition Fact Sheet”-1990).
The primary consumers of pornographic materials are male adolescents between the ages of 12 and 17, to whom this material is easily available: There are more stores selling pornographic videos in the United States than there are McDonalds! Pornography is available in Book Stores, Convenience stores, from cable TV, dial-a-porn telephone numbers, and vending machines. The pornography industry in America today is an $8-Billion dollar a year operation (85% of which is run by organized crime).
This pornography is used to titillate the person and to break down the resistance of young people. Worst than that, It is the leading cause of many sex crimes- The United States Department of Justice stated in 1988 that 1 in 3 females and 1 in 7 males will be sexually molested before the age of eighteen.
These Sex offenders normally follow these four steps:
1> Addiction to Pornography
2> Escalation in the need of more sexually explicit and shocking materials in order to get the same sexual stimulation as before.
3> Desensitization to the material’s contents. Gross and Taboo material now becomes acceptable, and even sought.
4> Imagination is translated into Action. You believe that Women and Children really WANT you to assault them; as the victims in movies and books depict. You think everyone else’s mind is just as corrupt as yours.
THE APPEAL OF PORNOGRAPHY– Men and women respond to sexual stimulants in different ways. Men tend to be sexually stimulated by visual images. Therefore they are quickly attracted to pornographic materials which are visual in nature.
Men tend to give love to get sex; whereas women tend to give sex to get love (If you really love me, you’ll go all the way with me).
Pornographic material appeals to men because of it’s visual impact and it’s openly sexual acts. Little time is “wasted” on developing relationships or considering the emotional needs of the female partner. Sex is merely a physical act.
Women, on the other hand, are drawn into sexual arousal through emotional, romantic, and relational stimulation. They like “steamy” romance novels, soap operas, and romance in the media rather than pornography (Although women CAN be corrupted by, and become addicted to, pornography. Many times they begin viewing this material to please the male in their life. Soon they begin to think this is “normal” behavior, one that they should engage in-My first counseling with a sex addict was a Lady Sunday School Teacher. This is not just a Male problem].
THE CORRUPTION OF PORNOGRAPHY– Exposure to Pornography causes one to become more tolerant of deviant sexual behavior, trivialize rape, and show a marked callousness for the pain caused by wrong use of Sex.
Pornography causes sexual arousal that releases the chemical epinephrine in the brain. This chemical is just as addictive as narcotics (Which helps to explain why some people continue in pornography in spite of their knowledge of it’s harmful effects).
Romans Chapter 1 says that this slide into sexual corruption culminates in God giving them over to a reprobate mind that considers Homosexual and Lesbian relationship correct (Rom 1:26-27).
THE ABOMINATION OF PORNOGRAPHY– Mat 5:28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Pornography perverts our relationship with the ones we love. Even more than that, it corrupts our Heart and defiles the temple of the Holy Spirit- 1 Cor 6:18-19 Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. 19 Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?
WHAT CAN WE DO?
1. Stand Against Pornography- Eph 5:11 Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.
2. Offer Help and Hope to those addicted to Pornography. Many people who are sexually addicted suffer from low self-esteem and deep emotional pain that drives them into a world of fantasy in order to escape the pain of reality. We must show them that God Loves them and that they are Valuable to God and the Church.
Most people are too ashamed to admit that they have this problem. We must show them we offer Compassion instead of Condemnation. They are not “freaks”; just fallen. God’s Power and Love can offer Forgiveness and change.
3. Teach People that God’s Plan is for Sex to be part of a marriage relationship. It is too powerful to play with in dark corners and the back seats of cars. And it is even more Deadly and powerful in the dark theaters of your mind where it will warp your personality and short circuit your relationships.
Pornography causes Pain for You, your loved ones, and God. Don’t let it trap you.

Eph 04:22-24 HOW TO LIVE A VICTORIOUS CHRISTIAN LIFE
1 Pet 4:1‑2 Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. “Ceased from sin”, how great that sounds to the committed Christian! “No longer to live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but doing the will of God”. This is the kind of Victorious Christian life that every Christian should desire and determine to obtain.
Sadly, Many Christians live a life of “quite desperation” as they are daily defeated by the world, the flesh, and the devil. May God help us to understand how we can have the mind of Christ so we can cease from sin and live our lives in the will of God.
One of the best scripture passages to help us learn how to live a Victorious Christian Life is-
Eph 4:22‑24 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
Three Great Principles for Victorious Christian Living are given in these verses:
1) Kill the Canaanites- “Put off concerning the former way of life the old man” When the Children of Israel entered the Promised Land they were told to “Kill the Canaanites”; every man, woman, and child was to be slain. That is the way it must be in our Christian life- Show no mercy to sin. Destroy it in any form it comes at you- in manly strength, in womanly lust, or in childlike desire. (Jesus called this “Denying yourself and taking up your cross daily).
This does not mean you become a “monk” in a secluded world. Learn to live in the world but do not allow the world to live in you! The boat is supposed to be in the water but the water is dangerous when it gets in the boat.
2) Change your Habits- “”be renewed in the spirit of your mind”. Control your tongue, change your friends, altar your patterns, tame your thoughts.
Escape from the “box” Satan has built around you- People drink alcohol in order to escape the pressures of life or in order to enjoy the pleasures of life. When pressures or desires come you must learn to let God show you how to find rest and enjoyment in a living relationship with Him.
3) Celebrate Christianity- “Put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness” Find your part in the work of the Lord and produce fruit for God. Remove the Briars and rocks. Plant a crop. Guard against surprise attacks. Determine to live the Abundant Christian life; one in which you find more joy in God than you do in serving evil- The prodigal son thought the “good” life was money, partying, and friends but he woke up in a hog pen to find life was a lot better at the Father’s house.
Enjoy the good things of God and live a victorious Christian life but remember how serious sin real is–Eccl 11:9 Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes: but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment.

THE EPHESIAN DOCTRINE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
I. WHAT THE HOLY SPIRIT DOES FOR US Chapter 1‑3
A) Seals Believers‑ 1:13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of Promise. [God’s “Brand” on every Christian.]
B) Reveals Christ‑ 1:17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: [Do you seek the Spirit in order to learn more about Christ‑‑ or to become a “Super Saint”???]
C) Unifies Followers‑ 2:18 For through him we both (Jew and Gentile) have access by one Spirit unto the Father. [Spirit filled people lose sight of Self as they see the Savior]
D) Develops the Body of Christ‑ 2:22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. [ Each Christian is placed into the Body of Christ as the Spirit wills to make the “Building” GOD desires. In Solomon’s Temple all the work was done on the building blocks so that when they arrived at the Temple all the workers had to do was put them in place‑ not a hammer was used. God is doing the same with us now. He is developing us now so that when we get to Heaven we’ll “fit right in”.]
E) Instructs Men of God‑ 3:5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit: [Even the “hidden” things]
F) Strengthens Christians‑ 3:16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; [Strength according to his riches in glory. WOW!!!]
II. WHAT WE DO FOR THE HOLY SPIRIT Chapter 4‑6
A) Keep the Unity of the Spirit‑ 4:3 Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
B) Do not Grieve the Spirit‑ 4:30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
C) “Fertilize” the Fruit of the Spirit‑ 5:9 (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth😉
D) Continually be Filled with the Spirit‑ 5:18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; [“be” here means “be being filled”. A continuous action.]
E) Fight the Devil with the “Sword of the Spirit”‑ 5:17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: [How many verses do YOU know by heart???]
F) Constantly allowing the Spirit to guide in praying for Self and for Others‑ 5:18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance [sticking to it!] and supplication for all saints;
[Do you pray for Saints as much as for Self??]
ARE YOU CONSCIOUS OF WHAT THE HOLY SPIRIT WANTS TO DO IN AND FOR YOU? DO YOU REALIZE YOUR OBLIGATIONS TO THE SPIRIT??

Eph 5:1-17 THE PROPER WALK
I. WALK IN LOVE 1-7 [When love becomes the deciding factor in a person’s choices and the motivating power in his actions, then that person is walking in Love].
A) By Purity of Conduct 1-3
1. Walk as children of God (as Children imitate their father)
2. Walk as Christ- who in love gave himself for others
3. Walk Clean (Note that each sin named is to satisfy SELF)
B) By Purity of Conversation 4
1. Avoid mixing “trash” in your talk
2. Sprinkle liberally with Thanks
C) By Purity of Companions 5-7 Realizing that the conduct of the lost will influence you- and THEY’RE GOING TO MISS HEAVEN!! Don’t let them “Taint” you or Tempt you.
NOTE:
1. Fornication= Illicit Sexual Activity
2. Uncleanness= Sexual Impurity (Pornography, lust, etc)
3. Covetousness= The desire to have more and more and more
4. Filthiness= Obscenity, foul language
5. Foolish Talking= Stupid talk, talk to draw attention to self
6. Jesting= implying evil without saying it.
THOSE BARRED FROM HEAVEN:
1. No Whoremonger= Lust has become a way of life
2. No Unclean person= Sexual impurity dominates the life
3. No Covetous Man (Who is an idolater)= things replace God.
II. WALK IN LIGHT 8-14 {You were not IN Darkness, you were Darkness. Now you are not IN the Light, you are Light in the Lord. As such you will present the Truth and expose the errors}.
A) By Proving (Letting the Light expose the real)
1. Light Produces Fruit
2. Light allows you to see what is correct
B) By Reproving (Light allows to Avoid dangers and Mark them)
1. Thru Separation [Don’t even Talk about the “dark” things]
2. Thru Shining
III. WALK LOOKING AROUND 15-17 {I once stepped on a snake because I had my eyes in the trees instead of watching where I was going. Christians need to be careful that they don’t stumble over the “Now” while looking at the future}.
A) In Wisdom- Live purposefully and worthily and accurately
B) Avoiding Wastefulness- “Buying up” all the opportunities {Christians will drive all over town to save a penny a gallon on gas but won’t drive next door to tell about Jesus}
C) In the Will of God- Do not be vague and thoughtless and foolish, but understand and firmly grasp what the will of God is: (1) It is not the Will of God that any perish- I Tim 2:4; (2) It is the Will of God that Christians live in Sanctification- I Thess 4:3
Are you Walking Properly now that you’re saved? Is your motivation Love? You Mission to shine the Light? and your Mind attuned to where you’re at so you want stumble and hurt yourself and others?

Eph 05:10 THE THINGS GOD ACCEPTS
Eph 5:10 Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord
The Joy of being Accepted: Ecc 9:7 Go thy way, eat thy bread with joy, and drink thy wine with a merry heart; for God now accepteth thy works.
We are accepted in Christ– EPH 1:5-6 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.
A Mind guided by God instead of this world allows us to determine what is acceptable to God– ROM 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
THINGS GOD ACCEPTS:
The Prayers of the Faithful:
1> Praying for the condemned- Gen 19:21 And he said unto him, See, I have accepted thee concerning this thing also, that I will not overthrow this city, for the which thou hast spoken.
2> Praying for our friends- Job 42:9-10 “The Lord accepted Job” praying for his friends. It caused God to overlook their problem and turn the captivity of Job!!
3> Praying for the ability and atmosphere to witness is acceptable to God- 1TIM 2:1-4 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.
The “Covering” of a “Go-between”- Ex 28:38 And it (A head band of gold with the words “Holiness to the Lord” engraved in it) shall be upon Aaron’s forehead, that Aaron may bear the iniquity of the holy things, which the children of Israel shall hallow in all their holy gifts; and it shall be always upon his forehead, that they may be accepted before the Lord.
Families taking care of each other- 1TIM 5:4 But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God.
Patient Suffering- 1PE 2:20-21 For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:
God sometimes accepts a Desire as though it were a Deed- 2CO 8:11-12 Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have. For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.
Mission Offerings- Phil 4:18 But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well pleasing to God.
People being Saved- Rom 15:16 That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost.
THINGS WE WANT GOD TO ACCEPT–
A) US! II Cor 5:9-10 Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
B) What we say and do Ps 19:14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.
God has an Acceptable Time:
A) For Prayer Ps 69:13 But as for me, my prayer is unto thee, O Lord, in an acceptable time: O God, in the multitude of thy mercy hear me, in the truth of thy salvation.
B) For Salvation Is 49:8 Thus saith the Lord, In an acceptable time have I heard thee, and in a day of salvation have I helped thee:and I will perserve thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, to establish the earth,…
Luke 4:19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord. God accepts you for Salvation TODAY- 2CO 6:2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)
THE SACRIFICES GOD ACCEPTS:
Our Spiritual Sacrifices are acceptable only in Christ (All of our works are as filthy rags before God)-1PE 2:5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
Our Bodies presented to Him- Rom 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethern, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
Spiritual Service- Rom 14:17-18 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men.
THINGS GOD DOESN’T ACCEPT:
Sacrifices with sin: Hos 8:13 They sacrifice flesh for the sacrifices of mine offerings, and eat it; but the Lord accepteth them not; now will he remember their iniquity, and visit their sins: they shall return to Egypt.
Sacrifice without Dedication: Jer 14:10-12 Thus said the Lord unto this people, Thus have they loved to wander, they have not refrained their feet, therefore the Lord doth not accept them; he will now remember their iniquity, and visit their sins. The said the Lord unto me, Pray not for this people for their good. When they fast, I will not hear their cry; and when they offer burnt offering and an oblation, I will not accept them: but I will consume them by the sword, and by the famine, and by the pestilence. See Jer 6:19-21
Society’s evaluation of a Person: Gal 2:6 But of these who seemed to be somewhat, (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man’s person:) for they who seemed to be somewhat in conference added nothing to me:
Acts 11: 34-35 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: but in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.
Amos 5:21-22 I hate, I despise your feast days, and I will not smell in your solemn assemblies. Though ye offer me burnt offerings and your meat offerings, I will not accept them: neither will I regard the peace offerings of your fat beasts.
Service offered because of Obligation- Mal 1:8,10,13 And if ye offer the blind for sacrifice, is it not evil? and if ye offer the lame and sick, is it not evil? offer it now unto thy governor; will he be pleased with thee, or accept thy person? saith the Lord of hosts. Who is there even among you that would shut the doors for nought? neither do ye kindle fire on mine altar for nought. I have no pleasure in you, saith the Lord of hosts, neither will I accept an offering at your hand. Ye said also, Behold, what a weariness is it! and ye have snuffed at it, saith the Lord of hosts; and ye brought that which was torn, and the lame, and the sick; thus ye brought an offering: should I accept this of your hand? saith the Lord.
Our Service should be based on Grace with a reverent attitude- HEB 12:28 Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:

Eph 05:15-16 REDEEMING THE TIME
Ephesians 5:15‑16 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
On this day, when the “Time Changes” by Government Regulation, I thought it would be a good idea to see what the Bible says we should do with time. Isn’t it strange that we have the same 24 hours in a day that our forefathers did and live in a society filled with “Time saving” devices; yet we seem to have less and less time; and end up longing for the “good old days” when life was pleasurable instead of Pressure packed.
“Times” have changed but Time is still the same; and we are still answerable to God for what we do with it. Let’s see what God expects of our time, and try to use it wisely.
Look closely at what our verses say:
1. We are to Walk (a continuous action)- This points to the PATTERNS in our life. Some people are consistently late (a Pattern) while others consistently waste time (a Pattern). If we are to do anything about time in our life we must learn our Patterns and see which of them need to be changed.
2. circumspectly (Looking around)- This deals with PERCEPTION. Some people never think about the consequences of their actions (Or lack of actions). Others have “tunnel vision” and spend tremendous time on one thing without regard to the many other things that are needful.
3. not as fools, but as wise (Knowing the PROPER way)- You can waste a lot of time wailing away at a tree with an axe handle, or you can take the time to put a sharp axehead on it and cut the tree down!
4. Redeeming the time (Buying up the opportunities we are given)- This means we should use our time PROFITABLY. We “Spend” our Time or “Waste” our Time. Sometimes the most profitable use of time is doing nothing while other times that the most wasteful use of time.
5. because the days are evil- The PRIORITIES of our time are very important. We know that TIME is RUNNING OUT for this world and it’s important that we do what we can while we still have time.
(In the Amp. Bible these verses read: Look carefully then how you walk! Live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as the unwise and witless, but as wise, sensible, intelligent people: Making the very most of the time‑ buying up the opportunity‑ because the days are evil).
Since we all have the same amount of Time it’s important that we learn to use it correctly. Here are 10 Guidelines to help us make the Most of our Time:
1. Know what your life is all about and set your priorities accordingly. (Phil 1:21 For me to live is Christ. If that is your goal then everything else will take lesser priority).
2. Set Definite measurable Goals. (Are you more like Christ now than you were last year? How can you tell??)
3. Plan the use of time in regards to your goals and priorities.
A) List the things you need to do. Where no vision people perish.
B) Heed the Holy Spirit’s Leading. Prov 16:9 A man’s heart deviseth his way; but the Lord directeth his steps.
C) Plan your work‑ then work your plan. James 1:22‑25
4. Don’t wait until every detail of God’s plan is known. Do what you know to do now. (The Word is a lamp unto my feet but it only shows a step at a time; as I take that one another is revealed).
5. Don’t become obsessed with Past or Future Success (Last week’s “steak” won’t fill today’s hunger! And if you starve to death today you won’t be able to enjoy a steak next week!) Now is acceptable time.
6. Do the right thing at the right time in the right way. Ecc 3:17 There is a time for every purpose and for every work. If a plane is to leave at 7 o’clock and you arrive at 6 you waste an hour. If you arrive at 7:30 you miss the plane!! Learn WHAT to do, WHEN to do it, and HOW to do it right (Is there a quicker better way?)
7. Don’t allow emotional impulses to dictate to you. (You must learn to work even when you don’t feel like it. Ecc 11:4 He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap).
8. Learn to learn from mistakes to save time in the future. If you stumble over a rock remember where it’s at. If you can’t Move it then Mark it!
9. Don’t talk about Life‑ LIVE IT!! Don’t always Plan; Perform.
10. Know when to quit:
A) When the task is determined impossible
B) When the task is determined unnecessary
C) When the task is completed‑ I have finished my course
GOD HAS GIVEN US ALL THE TIME WE NEED TO ACCOMPLISH HIS PURPOSE.
But Remember; the most important thing you can do with your time is use it to accept Christ as your Savior. Now is the Time to do that! Heb 4:7 Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

Eph 5:15-21 WALKING WISELY
Before God “went silent” for 400 years, in addition to Prophets, He used 2 men to prepare the nation: Ezra the Preacher and Nehemiah the Builder. As we face a very difficult time in America who will God use to get His People ready to Cling to Him in Dark Times?
Paul told the Ephesians how they could be the person they need to be in Times Like These.
See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God (Ephesians 5:15-21).
The word “Walk” is often used in the Bible to mean “Your manner of life”. Paul here is telling us how to live our life correctly under “Non Church” circumstances.
He begins by telling us we should “walk” with PERCEPTION (Circumspectly means a continuous looking around”). If you do not KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN you will go through life stumbling from one problem into another. Example of first time I went to a Big City and was so intrigued by sky scrappers until I often stumbled on sidewalk. Example of walking down corn row looking in tree tops for squirrels and a snake got between by feet.
Then he tells us to walk with PURPOSE (“not as fools but as wise”). Learn WHO your are, WHAT you want to do, and HOW you plan to accomplish that. I am a scholar, not an athlete. Each part of the Body of Christ has a job designed for each part of the Body of Christ.
He then gives us THREE WAYS TO LIVE A LIFE OF PURPOSE:
1) REDEEM THE TIME (Buy up Opportunities by doing what you can, where you are, with what you have).
2) RECOGNIZE THE WILL OF GOD (Be not unwise [basing your life plan on your wisdom or the world’s teachings] but understand what the will of God is).
3) BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT (A continuous action of allowing the Holy Spirit to guide your communication, your attitude, and your relationships with others)
A) Communications to Others and to God should be as sweet as a Song: Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
B) Keep a Positive Thankful Attitude: Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;
C) Humbly seek to build others into the person God wants them to be: Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.

Eph 05:18 WHAT IT MEANS TO BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT
We are never commanded to be indwelt, sealed, or baptized with the Holy Spirit because these are the work of God at Salvation. We are, however, commanded to be filled with the Holy Spirit {Ep 5:18}.
I. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT?
The analogy between being Drunk with wine and being filled with the Spirit occurs several times in the NT: Luke 1:15, Acts 2:4, 13, and Ep 5:18. A drunken person is under the control of alcohol and will think, speak, and act in ways not natural when sober. A Christian who is filled with the Spirit will think, speak, and act in ways not natural when he or she is controlled by the flesh.
There are many things in Scripture that “Fill” us:
FEAR– Luke 5:26 And they were all amazed, and they glorified God, and were filled with fear, saying, We have seen strange things today. (When the man was healed of Palsy). The fear controlled their lives and caused them to act differently.
MADNESS– Luke 6:6-11 when Jesus healed the man with the withered hand on the Sabbath They were filled with madness; and communed one with another what they might do to Jesus. Once again, Control.
SORROW– Jn 16:6 Because I have said these things unto you, Sorrow hath filled your heart. Sorrow replaced Joy and controlled them.
SATAN– Acts 5:1-4 Ananias, Why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? Instead of being controlled by the Spirit Ananias was controlled by Satan.
At the new Birth the absolute control the sinful nature had over a person is broken and he how has a Spiritual nature as well. The Holy Spirit seeks to control the life of the individual in order to produce the fruits of the Spirit in his life. He cannot do this unless the person’s “Will” will allow Him to. Being filled with the Spirit is simply allowing the Spirit to do in your life what the Spirit wants to do (and which only He can do).
Being Filled with the Spirit means that the Spirit controls the behavior of the Christian and performs His ministries through the believer. This is very important because only as the believer walks by means of the Spirit (Gal 5:16), being continually filled with the Spirit (Ep 5:18), will he be enabled to fulfill all God’s plan for his life and carry out the program of good works for which he is saved (Ep 2:10).
The filling with the Spirit, radically affects Christian life and service. It produces Christian character in the ninefold fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23), power for testimony (Acts 1:8), boldness for witnessing (Acts 4:31), and victory over the flesh (Gal 5:10). It results in the Spirit’s teaching (Jn 16:13; I Jn 2:27), true praise and worship (Ep 5:18-20), guidance (Rom 8:14), and effective prayer (Rom 8:27). The Disciples were filled with the Spirit on the day of Pentecost in order to PREACH {Acts 2:4}. Peter was filled with the Holy Spirit in order to TESTIFY {Acts 4:8} and the disciples were filled with the Spirit again in order to BOLDLY SPEAK God’s Word {Acts 4:31}. Paul was filled with the Holy Ghost when he was COMMISSIONED TO SERVE GOD {Acts 9:17} and again when he WITHSTOOD Elymas the sorcerer {Acts 13:8-10}.
It appears then that the Filling with the Spirit affects every area of the Christian life and is necessary to effectively do the work God has for you to do.
The knowledge that the Holy Spirit is seeking to control every part of the Believer may (could I say usually??) comes to the Believer after they’re saved. Because of all the confusion about the Filling of the Spirit, it’s hard to find a word to describe this second time of “crisis” in a person’s life (The first time is when you become aware of your wickedness and the need of Salvation. Now you are aware of your weakness and the need of Strength).
But regardless of the name you use you’ll never do an effective work for the Lord without it (To try to do the work of God without the power of God is like trying to empty the ocean with a pitchfork; you’ll work yourself to death and never accomplish anything.).
Satan has sought to greatly confuse this matter because it is the Pivotal Point in Christian Service. He tries to get people involved in “wildfire” emotional experiences that have great outward signs (“miracles”, tongues, etc), or he tries to scare people away from the Spirit so they will live a life of self-control instead of Spirit- control (Thus making their life and service for the Lord ineffective). The Spirit controlled life is one of death to Self. This will destroy your need of “signs” to show the world and of the Pride that keeps you from yielding to God.
The simple rule of thumb I use to tell the difference between those that are controlled by the Spirit and those that are not is: The Non-spirit controlled person is taken up with his SALVATION (He still majors on self and what God has done for HIM). The Spirit controlled person is taken up with his SAVIOR (Not I but Christ. Remember that the Spirit will always magnify Christ.).
II. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM A SPIRIT FILLED LIFE:
A) Power- To Witness for Christ -Acts 1:8 4:31-32. Lost people are DEAD in trespasses and sins. Only the power of the Holy Spirit can “raise the dead” into new life in Christ.
B) Persecution- From the enemies of Christ Acts 7:55-60 I Pet 4:14
C) Peace- From Abiding in Christ Ep 4:3 John 14:26-27
D) Productivity: Spirit Filled Christians–
1. Build the Church- (Wisdom to do the work in the Church that needs to be done if it is to operate effectively) Ex 31:3 And I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship. To devise cunning works,…Ex 28:3 And thou shalt speak unto all that are wise hearted, whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, that they may make Aaron’s garments to consecrate him, that he may minister unto me in the priest’s office. See also Ex 35:30-35
2. Build the Ministry (One of the Qualification of Deacons who were chosen in order to enable the Disciples to more effectively do their job). [These men needed to be filled with the Spirit IN ORDER TO WAIT ON TABLES!!!]- Acts 6:3-4 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.
Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; (Ephesians 5:17-18)

Eph 5:18 BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT
I. WHAT IT MEANS TO BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT.
According to Ep 5:18 it means “Under the control of the Spirit”. At the new Birth the absolute control the sinful nature had over a person is broken and he how has a Spiritual nature as well. The Holy Spirit seeks to control the life of the individual in order to produce the fruits of the Spirit in his life. He cannot do this unless the person’s “Will” will allow Him to. Being filled with the Spirit is simply allowing the Spirit to do in your life what He wants to do (and what only He can do).
The knowledge that the Holy Spirit is seeking to control every part of the Believer may (could I say usually??) comes to the Believer long after they’re saved. It’s hard to find a word to describe this second time of “crisis” in a person’s life (The first time is when you become aware of your wickedness and the need of Salvation. Now you are aware of your weakness and need of Strength.) because of all the confusion about the Filling of the Spirit. But regardless of the name you’ll never do an effective work for the Lord without it (To try to do the work of God without the power of God is like trying to empty the ocean with a pitchfork; you’ll work yourself to death and never accomplish anything.).
Satan has sought to greatly confuse this matter because it is the Pivotal Point in Christian Service. He tries to get people involved in “wildfire” emotional experiences that have great outward signs (“miracles”, tongues, etc), or he tries to scare people away from the Spirit so they will live a life of self‑control instead of Spirit‑control (Thus making their life and service for the Lord ineffective). The Spirit controlled life is one of death to Self. This will destroy your need of “signs” to show the world or pride that keeps you from yielding to God.
The simple rule of thumb I use to tell the difference between those that are controlled by the Spirit and those that are not is: The Non‑spirit controlled person is taken up with his SALVATION (He still majors on self and what God has done for HIM). The Spirit controlled person is taken up with his SAVIOR (Not I but Christ. Remember that the Spirit will always magnify Christ.).
II. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM A SPIRIT FILLED LIFE:
A) Power‑ To Witness for Christ Acts 1:8 4:31‑32
B) Persecution‑ From the enemies of Christ Acts 7:55‑60 I Pet 4:14
C) Peace‑ From Abiding in Christ Ep 4:3 John 14:26‑27
D) Placement‑ in the Body of Christ (Spiritual Gifts) I Cor 12:11
III. THE MEANS OF BEING FILLED
The Holy Spirit takes control the moment you meet God’s conditions. It’s not a matter of you trying to get the Spirit to come to you but rather you yielding to HIM.
A) Be Clean‑ The Holy Spirit is a good House‑keeper and demands that the Temple He controls be clean. This involves our talk, our thoughts, our actions, and every phrase of our life. (Sin Grieves the Holy Spirit and Quenches His ability to use us for God.). We are cleansed by CONFESSION (I Jn 1:9) and kept clean by CRUCIFIXION (Gal 5:24).
B) Be Hungry‑ Jn 7:37‑39 A “satisfied” sinner will not be saved and a Satisfied Christian will not be filled. (As long as You think YOU can make it you’ll never lean on the Spirit as you should).
C) Be Willing‑ Luke 11:13 The Spirit only takes control of what you YIELD to him. He never forces His way in.
YOU’RE AS CLOSE TO GOD RIGHT NOW AS YOU WANT TO BE!! Luke 11:13 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children; how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him? God never leaves a surrendered vessel empty.
(Many ask for the Spirit to control them but in reality they want to control the Spirit‑ like a toy to make the other kids jealous. Are you looking to Submit or “Show Off”???)

Eph 05:18- 6:9 A WELL ADJUSTED PERSON
Having told the Ephesians how to Walk Worthy of their Calling in their Conduct (Chapter 4) and then having demonstrated the Proper Walk to them (5:1-17), Paul now shows how this Walk will impact every part of the Person’s life.
I. AT PEACE WITH GOD
A) Sins forgiven so you’re at Peace WITH God
B) Under the Spirit’s Control so the Peace OF God that passes understanding shall keep your heart and mind thru Christ Jesus (Spirit Control is compared to Drunkenness. Drunkenness changes the way a person walks, talks, and acts).
II. AT PEACE WITH SELF
A) Your Thought life is changed- Speaking to yourself in Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.
B) Your Character is changed- Singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.
C) Your Attitude is changed- Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Your heart used to be full of sorrow and sin and self; now it is filled with singing and praise as you KNOW that all things work together for the good to them that love the Lord. You are at peace with Self and Circumstances. Troubles and trials and tribulations still come but you rest in the safety of the rock while these storms howl.
III. AT PEACE WITH OTHERS
A) Accepting God’s Plan for you in the Church- Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God You accept your part and place in the body of Christ as you work with other Christians to advance the cause of Christ.
B) Accepting God’s Plan for you in Life:
1. Wives are to respect their Husbands; as shown by a submissive attitude. (This is not inferiority. Christ and God are equal yet Christ willingly submitted to the Father).
2. Husbands are to Love their wives (As Christ loved the Church and was willing to sacrifice His life for it)
3. Children are to obey their Parents in the Lord
4. Parents are to treat their children Properly and Train them up in the ways of the Lord.
5. Employees are to work as servants of Christ (That is why it is important that a person find the job God wants for them. I think it is just as important for a carpenter to be in the right place as it is for a Preacher to be in the right Church).
6. Employers are not to take advantage of or abuse their workers (They have to answer to their “Boss” in Heaven).
When a Person accepts Christ as Savior he receives the Spirit to abide in his heart and give him power to live the Abundant Life. Allowing the Spirit to control your life relieves the pressure of self effort and also gives you a Plan and Purpose for your life.
LIFE IS GOOD when you have Peace, and a Purpose, and Power to do what God wants you to do.

Eph 06:1-4 TEACHING CHILDREN ABOUT HONOR AND RESPECT
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother”–which is the first commandment with a promise– “that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord (Eph 6:1-4 P1606).
Authority ‑ The lawful right to expect and enforce obedience
Honor ‑ To esteem or regard highly
Respect ‑ Honor shown towards those who are worthy
Rebellion ‑ Active opposition towards authority and those who are in positions of authority
Honor or dishonor involves ATTITUDES as well as ACTIONS ‑ respectful or disrespectful behavioral patterns are the way we manifest, or make known, those attitudes.
The “Authority” can demand that certain Actions take place but the Attitudes must be changed by the person involved- You can make a child stand in the corner but inside he’ll still throwing a temper tantrum.
1. Who is worthy of honor and respect ?
a. God ‑ And God spoke all these words: “I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. “You shall have no other gods before me. (Exo 20:1-3)
b. Parents ‑ Ephesians 6:2
c. Elders (People who have gained wisdom in the difficult school of hard knocks)‑ Do not rebuke an older man harshly, but exhort him as if he were your father. Treat younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity (1 Tim 5:1-2).
d. Those in places of civil or social authority (Government Leaders)‑ Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you (Rom 13:1-3)
e. Those in places of religious, spiritual authority (Church Leaders)-The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, “Do not muzzle the ox while it is treading out the grain,” and “The worker deserves his wages. (I Timothy 5:17-18)
Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other (1 Th 5:12-13)
2. How do we develop honor and respect in our children ?
a. By Instruction- “Train up a Child in the way they should go”
b. By Illustration- The way the Parent reacts to those in Authority will have a great impact on the way the Children react to them.
c. By Insistence- Guidelines must be Set and then adhered to.
3. In what areas of a child’s life are honor or dishonor revealed?
a. Verbal communication- If a man curses his father or mother, his lamp will be snuffed out in pitch darkness (Prov 20:20).
b. Non‑Verbal communication (voice tone, body language, facial, expression, etc.)
c. Obedience to other areas of authority- Many times, trouble at school or church are the Child’s way of defying authority at home.
d. Styles of dress and personal grooming
e. Choice of companions- Now Esau learned that Isaac had blessed Jacob and had sent him to Paddan Aram to take a wife from there, and that when he blessed him he commanded him, “Do not marry a Canaanite woman,” and that Jacob had obeyed his father and mother and had gone to Paddan Aram. Esau then realized how displeasing the Canaanite women were to his father Isaac; so he went to Ishmael and married Mahalath, the sister of Nebaioth and daughter of Ishmael son of Abraham, in addition to the wives he already had (Gen 28:6-9).
4. Why is it important that a child learn to honor authority, and show proper respect ?
a. It is the plan of God, as revealed by His order:
God
Parents
Church | Civil Authority
Child
Only God is inherently worthy of complete Respect and Obedience. All others are worthy only because they have earned that respect or because God has declared that they are to be respected. Obedience to God must always supersede obedience to anyone else.
b. Failure to do so is a sin.
[Much of this material came from a study by Rev Joe McKnight, of Beulah FWB Church of Pamplico. I appreciate it and look forward to other Pastors sharing some of their material with me. I need all the help I can get.]

Eph 06:8 GIVING AND RECEIVING
We often use the scale to point out the fact that sinners are weighed in God’s balance and found wanting. Today I want us to see the positive side of this example and see that, for a Christian, when we put something on one side of the scale, God puts something of equal or greater value on the other side. This should prove of tremendous encouragement to us as we try to live for God. After all, it sure is good to know that every time we give something we receive something from the Lord; and the Lord is a very good paymaster.
1. SERVICE– Eph 6:8 Knowing that whatever good thing each one does, this he will receive back from the Lord,…
A) Our Service to the Poor- Prov 19:17 He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.
B) Our “Small” Service- Mat 10:42 And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.
C) Our Sacrificial Service- Mat 26:12‑13 For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial. Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her.
God says that when we give service He doesn’t forget it. In fact, He says that when we do something to the least we do it to Him! (Glory).
2. HONOR- 1 Sam 2:30 Wherefore the LORD God of Israel saith, I said indeed that thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever: but now the LORD saith, Be it far from me; for them that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.
Those that Honor God, God will honor. Wouldn’t it be great to have God honor us! How then can we honor God so He can Honor us?
A) With our Prayers- Our Prayers are our way of communicating with God and, as such, are precious to God- Rev 5:8 And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints. Are your prayers emergency calls to God or are they loving communication between a father and child?
B) With our Presence- Gen 3:8 And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden. Sin causes us to avoid God. We honor God when we seek to be with Him. What a joy it is for God to have unbroken fellowship with His children.
C) With our Passions- John 14:23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. We honor God when our daily life bears witness to the Love we proclaim. Love is not just the words of your lips, it is the commitment of your life.
If we give God honor, He will return that Honor to us. Glory!
3. SUBSTANCE– Luke 6:38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
2 Cor 9:6 But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.
God also says giving and receiving works in the physical things of life.
A) Note Who BEGINS THE CYCLE- WE give and then God can give to us. Most people say, “God let me win the lottery and I will pay you tithes on what I win.” God says we are to give first if we want Him to give to us (Although its doubtful He would use a sinful lottery to meet your needs!).
B) Note the BARGAIN GOD MAKES- If you sow sparingly then that is the way you will reap. If you sow with a free hand then that is the way you can expect to receive.
Take the matter of Tithes- Mal 3:10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and PROVE ME now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. Why don’t you stop tithing on what you make and start tithing on what you WANT to make. God says you can put Him to the test on this matter and He will pass it!!
Let me caution you. If you are going to try to use this method to trick God into making you rich so you can sin or be selfish then you have forgotten already that those who lightly esteem God will be lightly esteemed while those who Honor God will be Honored.
4. SATISFACTION– Mat 7:7‑8 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: 8 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.
Everyone wants to receive Satisfaction. God says the way to get what you want is to give yourself completely to Him. God knows that the heart is a restless hunter, seeking only God. When we realize that only God can satisfy our souls then we ask for His presence, seek His fellowship, and knock for admittance into His very heart. That’s when we find that Thou openest thine hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing (Psa 145:16).
The key to this giving and receiving satisfaction from God is found in Deu 4:29 But if from thence thou shalt seek the LORD thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul.
God wants you to enjoy fellowship with Him now, and Heaven with Him in eternity, so much until He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, to die for you. If you will give God your sins and turn in Faith to Christ then you can receive forgiveness and eternal life. Do it today.

Eph 06:10-18 DEFEATING SATAN
We exist in a state of war with Satan. He is out to destroy our faith, our families, our testimony, and our relationship with God. How can Christians win this war against Satan and the World?
THE SCOUTING REPORT: When going into battle there are 4 basic things you need to find out about the enemy:
1. Distinguish the Enemy. Who are you fighting??? For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places (Eph 6:12). This is a Spiritual Battle; don’t spend your time fighting People! Sometimes the Devil is a Roaring Lion and sometimes he’s an angel of light. We must learn to resist him no matter what disguise he wears.
2. Determine the objective. What do you hope to accomplish or prevent? that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil (Ep 6:11).
Are you out to do Battle or get a Blessing?? Most Christians just want to enjoy life. They don’t mind Satan winning every now and then as long as it doesn’t inconvenient them. Are you looking for Pleasure or Progress??
3. Evaluate the Forces. What are:
A) YOUR Weaknesses- Sinful Nature (Self). Keep your weak Places well protected.
B) YOUR Strengths- Be strong IN THE LORD and in the power of his might (Ep 6:10). You wouldn’t fight an armed enemy with a broom and you shouldn’t fight Satan in your own strength.
C) ENEMY’S Weaknesses- he is already defeated in the Cross. Faith is the “Method” we use to avail ourselves of that weapon.
D) ENEMY’S Strengths- Temptation is real! Human nature is weak .Satan is an accomplished liar and very Smart! Don’t underestimate him.
4. Pursue a Plan of Attack. Go from the Drawing board to the Battlefield. God did not call us to be “Hothouse” Christians. We must live and work in a sinful world. We can ignore Satan while he builds Strongholds in our life– or we can live the life of Victory in Christ. When you find a Satanic Stronghold in your life; deal with it and destroy it.
THE BATTLE PLAN: The Christian fights in 3 main areas:
1. His Clothes- The Whole Armor of God:
a. Feet- Preparation of Gospel of Peace (Foundation)
b. Helmet- Salvation (Protects the Mind)
c. Breastplate- Righteousness (Protects the Heart)
d. Loins- Truth (“Holds up” everything else)
e. Shield- Faith (“Hide” behind to escape Satan’s Darts)
f. Sword- Word of God (Only Offensive weapon)
2. His Conduct- Rom 6:16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?
3. His Cross- Mk 8:34‑35 Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. for whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel’s, the same shall save it.
We know the outcome of the Battle if we follow the plan of God and wear the protection of God. Don’t become one of the Casualties of the Conflict.