1. Our lesson is based on "some timely instructions" given in these verses. 2. We are exposed to outbursts of anger on a regular basis, and we constantly see the effects of uncontrolled anger. 3. We need to know and practice what the Bible teaches on this subject. Discussion: I. LET US CONSIDER SEVERAL PRINCIPLES THAT RELATE TO ANGER
A. Anger leads to irrational behavior (3 illustrations). 1. (Genesis 4:5) Cain became "very wroth," and he killed his brother Abel (vs.8). 2. (2 Kings 5:11) Naaman "was wroth," and he refused to do what Elisha told him to do so he could be cured of leprosy. 3. (Luke 15:28) Anger prevented the older son from attending the feast that his father gave when his younger brother returned home. B. Anger is habit forming (Proverbs 19:19). C. Anger is contagious (Proverbs 22:24-25). D. Anger leads to other sins (Proverbs 29:22). E. Anger causes strife (Proverbs 30:33). II. LET US EXAMINE THE INSTRUCTIONS GIVEN IN EPHESIANS 4:26-27
A. Let us first examine the context. 1. This chapter teaches Christians how to "walk" so as to please God. 2. (vs.26-27) Instructions are given that relate to anger. B. These statements must be properly understood. 1. (vs.26) "Be ye angry" is not a command to be angry. a. "Anger" is an emotional response to something that displeases us, as illustrated by the Lord (Mark 3:1-5). 1) We all have emotions, and we all have things that displease us. 2) Since this is the case, we are all subject to being angry. b. These verses teach us not to sin as a result of being angry -- "Be ye angry, and sin not." 2. "Anger" [wrath] that causes us to commit sin is condemned. a. Ephesians 4:31 b. (Galatians 5:19-21) It is a work of the flesh. c. Colossians 3:8 3. We are taught in Ephesians 4:26-27 that our anger must be controlled, and we must not allow it to result in sin. III. LET US EXAMINE INSTRUCTIONS FOR CONTROLLING ANGER
A. (Ephesians 4:26) Do not let "the sun go down upon your wrath." 1. In other words, let your anger go the same day it arises. 2. If it is held in long enough, anger will lead to malice, hatred, and revenge. B. (Ephesians 4:27) Do not "give place to the devil." 1. We must determine in our minds that we are not going to give Satan the opportunity to lead us into sin. 2. (James 4:7) "Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." C. Additional instructions: 1. Remember that vengeance belongs to God (Romans 12:19). 2. We are to "overcome evil with good" (Romans 12:20-21). 3. We must follow the order given in James 1:19-20. Conclusion:
1. In addition to controlling our own anger, we must refrain from things that will cause others to become angry (Proverbs 15:1). 2. An interesting contrast is made in Proverbs 14:29 that should lead us to examine ourselves. 3. We learn from Proverbs 16:32 that the Lord is pleased with those who are "slow to anger" -- "He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city."
