Live in Purity
Introduction
Spiritual revival is exciting! We want to experience more of it. But will it last without moral purity? No, it cannot last unless the church recovers its calling to live godly lives by the power of the Holy Spirit. This is a challenging task, especially in today’s society. The pressure to conform to the world’s standards is an ever-present temptation. No one is immune to the daily challenge of living pure lives for God’s glory. How can we, as a church, overcome this? How can we live in purity amidst so much depravity? In Ephesians 4:17-24, the apostle Paul teaches us to make two important choices every moment and every day of our lives:
Two Choices
1. Reject the way *most* *people* *live*. (Ephesians 4:17-19) – Most people today live ungodly lives meaning that God is not at the center of their way of life, nor does He have authority over their choices. While they may identify themselves as religious, God does not have a say over them. As a result, they live in a state of futility, which ultimately leads to various forms of immorality.
2. Follow the *way* of *Jesus* individually and as a church. (Ephesians 4:20-24) – To experience the salvation that God offers through faith in Jesus, we must become apprentices of Jesus and learn from Him. He did not just die and rise again from the dead to save us; He also lived His life on earth as a pattern for us to follow, both individually and as a church. Salvation is entirely a work of God, but we are actively involved in it. By relying on the Holy Spirit, we can live in purity.
Conclusion
1. Central Idea: “The pursuit of *purity* results in *spiritual* *vitality*.”
2. Let us not conform to the pattern of this world. Let us be distinct in our lifestyle so that we can be salt and light wherever the Lord has placed us.
3. Create a triad and hold each other accountable. Using whatever tool you like, confess your moral challenges or temptations with each other and help each other choose the way of Jesus.
Discussion
1. What are some specific challenges or temptations you personally face in trying to live a godly life in today’s society? How do these challenges impact your pursuit of purity?
2. How can we practically implement this in our daily lives, both individually and as a church community? What steps or practices can we adopt to ensure that God has authority over our choices and lifestyle?
3. How have you personally experienced spiritual vitality or revival when you’ve pursued a life of moral purity? Share specific moments or examples from your own journey, and how they have impacted your relationship with Christ and others in your church community.