Eph 5:1-5

Ephesians 5:1-2
Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Discipleship is about example. Paul says in

1 Corinthians 11:1
Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.

Paul also talks about not having “even a hint of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people.” (V3) The idea is that while we cannot control what other people think about us, we can seek to make sure that we don’t even have the appearance of evil. Often these other desires steal our worship, which is why Paul says these pursuits make us idolaters - people who make idols of sex, money and power. Truth is money is a deceiver and sex is intoxicating so tread carefully.

Paul addresses the way we talk and says that there should be a tone of gratitude rather than perverse joking or foolish talk, which he says is “out of place” (v11).

To know that something is OUT of place requires that we know what is IN PLACE. That is about patterns and blueprints. Whether in your life, organisation, or business, it’s worth defining what the predominant culture and values should be.

2 Timothy 1:13

What you heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus.

What is the pattern in your life or business? What would and should be considered “out of place”?