Keep Your Eyes Open!
The sermon emphasizes the importance of walking circumspectly and living with an intelligent purpose, reflecting on our actions and establishing our ways to live as the Lord desires.
Theodore Epp emphasizes the importance of living wisely and circumspectly as instructed by Paul in Ephesians 5:7-17. He urges believers to be vigilant and intentional in their actions, recognizing that their lives serve as a witness to others. Epp highlights that living with purpose, as exemplified by Paul, is crucial for effectiveness in the Christian walk. He encourages believers to examine their lives carefully, ensuring they align with their faith and the teachings of Christ. Ultimately, Epp calls for a life that magnifies Christ, whether in life or death.
Text
Ephesians 5:7-17
Because of the subtle works of darkness and the importance of being a witness for the Lord, Paul said, "See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise" (Eph. 5:15).
The word translated "see" means "to look, to consider, to take heed." It was as if Paul was waving a sign before them that said, "Stop, look and listen." Paul wanted believers to make a thorough check of the way they were living to be sure they were walking as they should be. Paul wanted them to make sure they were walking "circumspectly," which means "looking around" or "being cautious." The Greek word Paul used means "accurately" or "exactly." One of the reasons believers should live carefully is that unbelievers are observing them. To live carefully, believers must have an intelligent purpose in living. If we do not have such a purpose, our lives will not be as effective as the Lord desires.
Paul's purpose in living is seen in 1 Corinthians 2:2: "For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified." To the Philippians, he wrote: "According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain" (1:20,21).
"Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established" (Prov. 4:26).
Sermon Outline
- I. Walking Circumspectly
- A. Seeing the need to be cautious
- B. Considering the impact of our actions
- C. Living with an intelligent purpose
- II. The Importance of Purpose
- A. Paul's purpose in living
- B. The impact of our lives on unbelievers
- III. Pondering Our Path
- A. Reflecting on our actions
- B. Establishing our ways
Key Quotes
“See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise (Eph. 5:15).” — Theodore Epp
“Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established (Prov. 4:26).” — Theodore Epp
“For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified (1 Cor. 2:2).” — Theodore Epp
Application Points
- We should strive to live with an intelligent purpose, reflecting on our values and priorities, and seeking to live for Christ.
- Pondering our path helps us to reflect on our actions and to establish our ways, ensuring that we are living as we should be.
- Being mindful of our actions and seeking to live with an intelligent purpose can help us to apply the principle of walking circumspectly in our daily lives.