SEARCH THE SCRIPTURES 10-03-2019

RECAP OF OUR LAST STUDY From our last study, entitled “David Anointed King”, we learnt that God guided Samuel to anoint David king. As Christians, we must remain humble and rely on God through prayer to provide guidance. God’s choice is not according to rank or position, but always in line with His own principles. David grew and developed in skill and grace after his anointing. However, above all, he was described by God as a man after His own heart.

TODAY’S STUDY: LESSON 734: THE NEW LIFESTYLE OF BELIEVERS MEMORY VERSE: …… “And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness” (Ephesians 4:24). TEXT: Ephesians 4:17-32

INTRODUCTION Believers are called out of the world and translated into God’s kingdom through Christ. They have renounced all fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness. The inner work of grace happens as God’s divine nature is imparted and implanted. Its influence on the individual is then seen in manner of life, priorities, a wholesome tongue, relationships and work habits that are in conformity with Christ. QUESTION 1: Describe the life of citizens in the two kingdoms – Ephesians 4:17-19; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Proverbs 4:18

THE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE OLD LIFE Ephesians 4:17-19 Every unconverted person carries the nature of sin, which tends to do evil continually. Their ambitions are vain, dictated by the flesh, self, Satan and the world. They only labour for temporary, earthly things and have no spiritual ambition (John 6:27). The old life is not sensitive to God and indulges itself in all kinds of evil – filthy communication, lying, anger, wrath, blasphemy and malice. QUESTION 2: What should sinners do to be translated from the old life to the new? – 1 John 1:9; Acts 3:19

CALL FROM THE OLD LIFE INTO THE NEW Ephesians 4:20-24 As new creatures, the old pattern of words and works must be replaced by words seasoned with grace (gentle, gracious, edifying and encouraging) and works of love, faith and humility. Our testimony and witness should be like that of Daniel (Daniel 6:4), Samuel (1 Samuel 12:3,4) and Dorcas (Acts 9:36-39). The believer must also renew their commitment and refresh their convictions until the day of Christ. Our lives must show mercy, kindness, humility, forgiveness and love.

CALL FROM THE OLD LIFE INTO THE NEW Ephesians 4:20-24 QUESTION 3: Mention the works of the flesh that converted sinner is expected to put off. – Colossians 3:8,9; Ephesians 4:25-31 QUESTION 4: Point out some differences between the old man and the new man. – Ephesians 4:22,24; Colossians 3:9,10; Romans 12:2

THE OLD vs. THE NEW LIFE AND SUNDRY EXHORTATIONS Ephesians 4:25-32 The new man has done away with the old works of sin and switched over to another life befitting his profession. Speaking the truth should be the hallmark, and displeasure at wrong doing should be expressed without committing sin. As lights, they shine and radiate Christ; and as salt, they sweeten and add value to whoever they are in contact with, upholding and preserving God’s righteous standard. QUESTION 5: What are the proofs of a new life in Christ? – Colossians 4:6a; Galatians 5:22-24; John 1:12

CONCLUSION The divine life makes a believer distinct. Having renounced fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, our lives must characterised by gracious words and works of love, faith and humility. Truth is the hallmark of the Christian; displeasure at wrong doing should be expressed without committing sin. Our lives must show mercy, kindness, humility, forgiveness and love.