The New You (Ephesians Pt. 18) | Francis Chan

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message emphasizes the importance of living a life of truth, honesty, and integrity as followers of Christ. The passage from Ephesians 4:25-32 highlights the need for believers to put away falsehood and speak the truth with one another, as we are members of one another in Christ. This is not just about stopping bad habits, but about replacing them with a new way of living that reflects our identity in Christ.

Key Scripture References

• Ephesians 4:25-32 - In this passage, Paul emphasizes the importance of truth and honesty in relationships. He quotes from Zechariah 8:16-17, where God says that he wants his people to be known as a city of truth, where there is no deception or hypocrisy.
• Zechariah 8:16-17 - This passage highlights God's desire for his people to live in truth and honesty, rendering judgments that are true and making peace. It serves as a foundation for Paul's teaching in Ephesians 4:25-32.
• Psalm 4:4 - In this psalm, the author is wrongly accused and feels anger rising up within him. However, he chooses to put aside his anger and bitterness, allowing himself to have a peaceful night's sleep. This serves as an example of how we can choose not to let our emotions consume us.
• Ephesians 4:32 - Paul emphasizes the importance of kindness, tenderheartedness, and forgiveness in relationships. He reminds us that we are called to forgive others just as God has forgiven us through Christ.

The Importance of Truth and Honesty

Living a life of truth and honesty is not always easy, but it is essential for our spiritual growth and well-being. When we choose to live in deception or hypocrisy, we are living a lie that can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and anxiety. On the other hand, when we choose to live in truth and honesty, we experience freedom from these negative emotions and are able to build strong, healthy relationships with others.

The Danger of Anger and Bitterness

Paul's teaching in Ephesians 4:25-32 also emphasizes the danger of anger and bitterness. When we choose to hold onto these emotions, they can consume us and destroy our relationships with others. Instead, we are called to forgive others just as God has forgiven us through Christ.

The Power of Forgiveness

Forgiveness is a key aspect of living in truth and honesty. When we choose to forgive others, we release them from the debt they owe us and allow ourselves to move forward in freedom. This is not always easy, but it is essential for our spiritual growth and well-being.

Conclusion

This message emphasizes the importance of living a life of truth, honesty, and integrity as followers of Christ. We are called to put away falsehood and speak the truth with one another, as we are members of one another in Christ. This requires us to choose not to let our emotions consume us, but instead to forgive others just as God has forgiven us through Christ. By living in truth and honesty, we experience freedom from negative emotions and are able to build strong, healthy relationships with others.