Living by Example

This lesson consists of two passages of scriptures: John 1:1-2 and Ephesians 5:1-2, 6-14. The first passage explains why the Son of God is called the Word. Matthew Henry Concise states, "that as our words explain our minds to others, so was the Son of God sent in order to reveal his Father's mind to the world." John proclaims that the Son coexisted with the Father in the beginning. In Jesus Christ the Word of God appeared on the earth. Jesus is God in human flesh. "...the Word was with God, and the Word was God (John 1:1)" before the creation establishes the eternity of Jesus with the Father. And, it is through Him that all things are made, including the work of our redemption and salvation, and without Him nothing exists. He is the giver and sustainer of spiritual and physical life.

The Apostle Paul continues his instructions to the church in Ephesus with practical points. He instructs them to become imitators of God. God is merciful, caring, compassionate and forgiving. We should follow His example and treat others as God treats us. Jesus showed His love when He sacrificed His life on the cross, that we would have a way to be forgiven of our sins. As believers (children) we should mimic our Father in behavior and speech, and then our walk through life will be a light to others.

In verses 6-14, Paul cautions the believers against acts of sin. He exhorts them to be who they claim to be, not to listen to false teachers, to separate from things of the world and those who seek to live in spiritual darkness. Paul warns that those who continue to live in disobedience will face the wrath of God. Paul reminds them that as children of the light in the Lord, to walk in the light, not in darkness. You should study and pray, "so that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him, bearing fruit in every good work and growing in the knowledge of God (Colossians 1:10)." Paul even cautioned against having discussions about the shameful acts of disobedient. Lord God, creator of all things, help us to be obedient to your Word and walk in love.