March 9, 2008 Sermon Notes

March 9, 2008
Pastor Marty Grubbs – (9:30 & 11:00)
Pastor Matt Anderson – (10:45)
“Filled”
Six Words for New Life series, part five
Ephesians 5

A review:

Chosen “... God loved us and chose us in Christ ...” -Ephesians 1:4

Alive “... He gave us life when He raised Christ from the dead ...” -Ephesians 2:5

Loved “... How wide, how long, how high and how deep God’s love is ...” -Ephesians 3:18

Changed “... Let the Spirit [change] your thoughts and attitudes ...” -Ephesians 4:23

“Instead, be filled with the Spirit.” -Ephesians 5:18

“So, I advise you to live according to your new life in the Holy Spirit. ... But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, He will produce this kind of fruit in us:  love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Here there is no conflict with the law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to His cross and crucified them there. If we are living now by the Holy Spirit, let us follow the Holy Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.” -Galatians 5:16, 22-25

 

 

A morning thought...

There are those people in our lives who have touched us deeply because of their love, compassion, and interest in our well-being. It may be a parent, a loved one, a teacher, a friend, a co-worker, or even a casual acquaintance who has impacted us at a very vulnerable or crisis time. A dear woman who happened to witness an accident and took the time to give her information in case it might be needed became The Good Samaritan when her testimony vindicated an honest man. A gentle smile or the availability to give directions are sometimes gifts that will never be forgotten. Our lives leave prints in the sand for those who come after us: guiding others to the Kingdom of God.

“Follow God’s example in everything you do, because you are His dear children. Live a life filled with love for others, following the example of Christ, who loved you and gave Himself as a sacrifice to take away your sins. And God was pleased, because that sacrifice was like sweet perfume to Him. For though your hearts were once full of darkness, now you are full of light from the Lord, and your behavior should show it! For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true” (Ephesians 5:1-2; 8-9). Be filled with God’s light! Be filled with His Spirit!

—George R. Skramstad, 2008