Explore the transformative journey from darkness to light, emphasizing wisdom and moral clarity in a believer’s life. Discover how superficial kindness can mask deeper issues, while true relationship with God reveals genuine spiritual fruits. Delve into the themes of forgiveness and honesty, understanding their long-term impact on trust and relationships. Learn about the importance of living wisely and authentically, contrasting Christian lifestyles with more superficial ones, and cultivating wisdom through self-awareness and spiritual connection.
Walking in wisdom involves actively exposing the deeds of darkness while reflecting the principles of goodness, righteousness, and truth.
True transformation through Christ's love reorients our desires, resulting in lives marked by honesty, integrity, and the fruitful outcomes of light.
Deep dives
Transformation Through Christ's Love
True life change is not merely about believing or engaging in religious activities; it is about a deep transformation of the heart through Christ's love. This change is distinct from mere behavioral modification, as it stems from a profound inner shift that reorients our desires and intentions. The gospel emphasizes that prior to this transformation, individuals are in a state of darkness, but upon accepting Christ, they are transformed into light. This reformation invites believers to live according to the principles of goodness, righteousness, and truth, reflecting the nature of the light within them.
The Fruits of Light and Darkness
The outcomes of one's life, or the 'fruits,' serve as indicators of whether a person is dwelling in light or darkness. True fruit manifests as honesty, integrity, and generosity, while actions stemming from darkness yield unfruitful works that may superficially seem satisfactory. The long-term effects of choices influenced by light lead to fulfillment, while those driven by darkness often result in bitterness and regret over time. This concept is reinforced by biblical narratives, such as that of Moses, illustrating that immediate pleasures may be enticing, but they invariably lead to sorrow in the long run.
Exposing Darkness with Wisdom
Believers are called not only to avoid the works of darkness but to actively expose and challenge them through wisdom and understanding. This process involves exemplifying the virtues of light in everyday situations and persuading others by showcasing the transformative power of the gospel in one's life. Wisdom plays a crucial role in determining how to interact with others, knowing when to speak out, and when to demonstrate patience. By cultivating Christ-like wisdom, individuals can become beacons of light, encouraging those around them to seek transformation and draw closer to the truth.
Ephesians 5 talks about light and wisdom. Paul says that because you once were darkness and now are light, you should now expose works of darkness and experience the fruit of light.
Then in verse 15, Paul says that we are to walk as wise and not as fools, for the days are evil. What Paul is saying is that walking in wisdom is the way in which you expose the deeds of the darkness.
In these verses, Paul shows us 1) there are two different realms—darkness and light, 2) we are to have nothing to do with unfruitful works of darkness, but are to instead bear the fruit of the light, and 3) as one who is in the light, your job is to expose the deeds of darkness.
This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on June 2, 1991. Series: Christian Lifestyle. Scripture: Ephesians 5:15-18.
Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.
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