We should be careful when reading the bible to take note of the context. Some passages in the bible are for select people, other passages are for everyone. Ephesians 4:1--5:17 is an example of a passage with meaning for one group but not for all. This passage is for the believers, those born again spiritually, who have their minds renewed, wearing a new set of glasses, seeing God's perspective. This is not a slam on unbelievers by any means, but a reminder that without the Holy Spirit dwelling within, much of the bible is senseless.
"But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned." (1 Corinthians 2:14 NKJV)
Scofield in his commentary says the natural man may be learned, gentle, eloquent and fascinating, but the spiritual content of Scriputre is absolutely hidden from him; and the worldly Christian is able to comprehend only its simplest truths, "milk" (1 Corinthians 3:2). I know this is true because I've been both an unbeliever and a worldly Christian. I've made fun of Christians and I've strayed later in life from deeper commitments to God because I wasn't commited to Him. I still wonder if being "sold out" for Jesus even possible? But I press on.
That being said, almost 2 chapters is given to what a believers life should look like. For fear of sounding legalistic no comments will be made regarding this text. Suffice it to say prayer should precede and follow any conclusions regarding what you read and their applications to your life. Questions...Is going to a bar ok? Is drinking ok? Is smoking ok? Is hanging out with your friends ok when they are watching porno flixs? Is going to a gay wedding right? Is talking about someone else when they are/are not around a good idea? Is buying anything from a communist country a Godly thing to do? (That's half my closet)
"So watch your step. Use your head. Make the most of every chance you get. These are desperate times! Don't live carelessly, unthinkingly. Make sure you understand what the Master wants." (Ephesians 5:15-17 The Message) I can't make the decision for anyone but myself.
Grace, MB
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3 comments:
I DON'T LIKE WHEN YOU SAY WE CAN'T COMMENT...LOL...WHICH TWO CHAPTERS?
and why is the time messed up on this site..?
Ephesians 4 -5:17 is basically instructions for believers. We can comment to each other as brothers and sisters in Christ, however if anyone reading this is not a believer then I would be sounding legalistic to say you should act this way or that. Does that make sense?
Don't understand the time either!
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