24 and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:24
Question: “How long have you been a Christ-follower?” I believe each of us, who follow Christ, have our own answer to this question.
To those who were the original recipients of Paul’s letter in Ephesus, their answer would vary as well. Many of them had come to know Christ through the preaching of Paul. The mystery of the gospel came through His ministry (3:7). Years have passed since that day. Paul is now in prison in Rome (Acts 28). His heart is for the church in Ephesus is to both share grace and to stand in grace.
If this was to happen the church would have to be united in intentionality in putting off the old way of life and intentionally putting on the virtues that characterized the new way of life.
I shared with our staff this truth yesterday: “You cannot assume this work will happen on its own.”
Big deal: Each of us have our own inner battles with the old nature. We are called to fight through those battles for the glory of God.
What are your battles as a Christ follower?
The Ephesians faced 5 battles in chapter 4:
- They battled lying. God’s answer for them was to speak truth in grace.
- They battled anger. God’s answer for them was to be righteous in their anger seeking reconciliation in all things by grace.
- They battled laziness. God’s answer was for the church to work for the glory of God.
- They battled slander. God’s answer was grace that leads to lifting up those around us.
- They battled grieving the Holy Spirit. God’s answer was to put off the old man and walk in the Holy Spirit which is the maker of the new man.
So, I ask, “How long have you been a Christ follower?” Be careful that you strive as hard today to follow Christ as you did the first day grace was applied to your life!!!
This beloved old Hymn helps me to strive more in grace:
- Marvelous grace of our loving Lord,
Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt!
Yonder on Calvary’s mount outpoured,
There where the blood of the Lamb was spilled.- Refrain:
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that will pardon and cleanse within;
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that is greater than all our sin!
- Refrain:
- Sin and despair, like the sea waves cold,
Threaten the soul with infinite loss;
Grace that is greater, yes, grace untold,
Points to the refuge, the mighty cross. - Dark is the stain that we cannot hide;
What can we do to wash it away?
Look! There is flowing a crimson tide,
Brighter than snow you may be today. - Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace,
Freely bestowed on all who believe!
You that are longing to see His face,
Will you this moment His grace receive?