God's People Are to Walk Circumspectly (Ephesians 5:15-17)
Introduction:
1. In Ephesians 5 God's people are given some very important instructions. 2. This morning we are especially interested in the admonition given in vs.15a: to "walk circumspectly" (Ephesians 5:15-17). a. "Walk" refers to our conduct, the manner in which we live. b. Walking "circumspectly" involves giving careful attention to our conduct, living correctly and with caution. 3. In order to "walk circumspectly," we must: a. live wisely, not foolishly (vs.15b) b. "redeem the time" [to make the best use of time] (vs.16) c. "understand the Lord's will" (vs.17). 4. From Ephesians 5 we are considering 3 areas in which "God's people are to walk circumspectly." Discussion: I. FIRST, WE ARE TO "WALK CIRCUMSPECTLY" IN FOLLOWING GOD (Ephesians 5:1-14)
A. In following God we must imitate the example of Christ (vs.1-2). B. In following God we must avoid sinful activities (vs.3-5). C. In following God we must avoid evil influence (vs.6-14; 1 Corinthians 15:33). II. SECOND, WE ARE TO "WALK CIRCUMSPECTLY" IN OUR SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT (Ephesians 5:18-21)
A. According to these verses, spiritual development involves: 1. being "filled with the Spirit" (vs.18; Galatians 5:22-23) 2. offering praise (vs.19) 3. giving thanks (vs.20) 4. being concerned about others (vs.21). B. Spiritual development is also addressed in 1 Peter 2:1-3. III. THIRD, WE ARE TO "WALK CIRCUMSPECTLY" AS WE FULFILL OUR RESPONSIBILITIES AS HUSBANDS AND WIVES (Ephesians 5:22-33)
A. The responsibilities of wives are discussed in Ephesians 5:22-24. B. The responsibilities of husbands are discussed in Ephesians 5:25-33. Conclusion:
1. We learn from Ephesians 5:15 that the Lord requires His people to "walk circumspectly" [to live and conduct ourselves as the Lord teaches in His Word]. 2. From Ephesians 5 we have seen how we are to "walk circumspectly" as we: a. follow God b. develop spiritually c. fulfill our responsibilities as husbands and wives. 3. As we endeavor to "walk circumspectly" in these areas, let us: a. pursue wisdom and avoid foolishness (5:15b) b. redeem the time because the days are certainly evil (5:16) c. understand the will of the Lord (vs.17).
