Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together

Ephesians 5:15-21 (ESV)15 Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, 19 addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, 20 giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.

Sermon OutlineHow do you make the best use of time? (vv15-17)

1. Be Filled with the Spirit

2. v18 “do not get drunk with wine… but be filled with the Spirit”

3. Have Reverence for Christ

4. v21 “…out of reverence for Christ”

5. v20 “giving thanks always and for everything”
6. v19 “addressing one… making melody to the Lord with your heart”
7. v21 “submitting to one another…”

Prayer of ConfessionOur wise and compassionate Father, forgive us for our foolishness. We haven’t made the best use of our time. We have wasted it, and we have filled our time with things that dishonor you. We haven’t sought you fervently and haven’t walked in the Spirit. We have not lived with reverence for Christ. We admit to sinful thoughts, words and actions. Forgive us. Remove all that is corrupt in us, and fill us with your Holy Spirit. We give thanks to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

1. How do you fail to “make the most of the time”?
2. Have you sought to be filled with the Holy Spirit? How? What have you done? What can you do?
3. Are there any substances in your life (drugs, alcohol, etc.) that shape you? What do you need to do to exchange them for the Holy Spirit?
4. How do you know if it is the Holy Spirit at work in you or some other spirit?
5. What stirs reverence for Christ in you?
6. How can you genuinely have a song of thanks in your heart? What can you do so that you are more thankful, even in challenging situations?
7. Why is it important to keep reverence for Christ primary as you relate to other people? How does this create the best context for submitting to one another?