Sermon Outline June 22, 2008 Evening Service Service

Topic: Aspects Of Becoming Behavior 

Text:      Ephesians 5:1-4  

Introduction

I.        Probably all of us have received frequent admonitions from our parents along the line of, “Behave yourself.”

II.       The Bible contains similar admonitions from God instructing us to behave ourselves.

II.       Tonight I’d like for us to consider several aspects of what constitutes ‘becoming behavior’ among Christians.

Text

I.        We Are Called To Be A Holy People.

A.       We were chosen before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4;

2 Timothy 1:9).

B.       We were called through the gospel (2 Thessalonians 2:14).

C.      We were called to be holy (1 Peter 1:15; Ephesians 4:1, 17-20).

II.      Aspects Of Becoming Behavior.

A.       Behavioral attributes:

1.       Good manners (Luke 7:44-46).

2.       Courteousness (1 Peter 3:8).

3.       Considerate (Titus 3:2).

B.       Careful speech:

1.       Abandon all inappropriate or unfitting speech (Ephesians 5:3-4; Colossians 3:8).

2.       Speak that which edifies and imparts grace (Colossians 4:6; Ephesians 4:29).

C.      Good works:

1.       We were created in Christ for good works (Ephesians 2:10).

2.       Good works are fitting for anyone who makes a claim to godliness (1 Timothy 2:10; Titus 3:14).

3.       We must ensure that the good works we engage in are those prepared by God and not those of our own devising (Ephesians 2:10; Colossians 3:17).

D.      Manner of dress (1 Timothy 2:9-10; 1 Peter 3:3-5).

Conclusion

I.    Throughout the world in all times, God is known for His holiness.

A.       Each of us has been elected and called by this same God.

B.       It follows, then, that we who are called by a holy God should also walk in holiness (Ephesians 4:1).

II.       Our behavior is a reflection of who we are.

A.       The aspects of becoming behavior we have discussed should probably go without saying in light of who we claim to serve.

B.       Yet too often, the aspects of becoming behavior that we have examined are those which are often lacking among the saints (good manners, graceful speech, good works, and modest dress).

III.      Brethren, let us each stir up the determination of mind to abandon the influences of the world and grow in the knowledge of the principles of true religion.

IV.      Such growth will only come through perseverance in study and application of God’s word (2 Peter 1:1-11).