Signs of Life
Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need. Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.
Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
– Ephesians 4:28 – 5:2
Working out work (4:28)
- Self-centered shortcuts
- Work matters
- Generosity from all, generosity to all
Breathing out grace (4:29-5:2)
- The weight of words
- Unforgiving speech from a forgiven life?
- Imitating God
Discussion Questions:
- What are the shortcuts we’re tempted to take?
- What is the purpose of your work as you live the new life? Does this change the way you look at your job/calling?
- What does it look like to live a productive life? What is the balance we should have with regards to productivity and rest(in other words, how do we guard against being workaholics)?
- Why is every member of the body commanded to share and be generous? What does this look like?
- Talk about the power of words in your life. How has corrupting speech torn you down? How have words of grace benefited you?
- According to this passage, how do we grieve the Holy Spirit? What does that mean?
- How often do you think about/engage in the act of forgiveness? Why should it characterize the life of a Christian?