Living in loving relationships

Just listened to a really good talk on living the life described in Ephesians 5

Ephesians 5:1,3-6,8-11 (NIV)
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children [3] But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. [4] Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. [5] For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person---such a man is an idolater---has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. [6] Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. [8] For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light [9] (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) [10] and find out what pleases the Lord. [11] Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.

We need to choose to live a new life, but also need to do it every day.

Imitate

Ephesians 5:1 (NIV)
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children

We need to live a life of love. We need to imitate Christ and follow Him.

We need to be honest in our thoughts and actions.

Ephesians 5:1-2 (NIV)
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children [2] and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

We need to be vulnerable in our honesty with our friendships and relationships.

We need to admit what we struggle with.

Invest

The new life that is loving and faithful involves investment in relationships.

We are told not to be involved in specific things.

Ephesians 5:3-7 (NIV)
But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. [4] Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. [5] For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person---such a man is an idolater---has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. [6] Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. [7] Therefore do not be partners with them.

Is Paul trying to keep sexual temptation out of our thoughts and talks.

We need to live to a different standard.

Our society says that sexual immorality is ok.

If we truly want to love others we won't to get involved in sexual immorality.

No one is immune but imitating God is the starting point.

Ephesians 5:4 (NIV)
Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.

If we are talking thanksgiving there is no room for sexual immorality.

We should also invest with out expectation of return. We should love others rather than wanting to use them.

Illumination

Ephesians 5:8 (NIV)
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light

We are children of light and can live in the light.

This doesn't necessary mean trying to catch people out but shine the light on the path for others.

Ephesians 5:9 (NIV)
(for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth)

We will see ...

- goodness
- righteousness
- truth

We don't have to try and live in righteousness but will come as the fruit of living in the light.