HOPE Community

Message Text

Ephesians 5:1-2 ESV

1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Message Notes

1. The problem is me

The solution to my problems is not to be more like me.

I am: Anxious, Fearful, Impulsive, Prideful.

2. The Answer is less like me and more like God

1 Corinthian’s 9:27 I have the freedom to do whatever I want, be whatever I want to be. I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

3. It will not come naturally.

Galatians 5:19-26 19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery;20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Connect Group Discussion Questions

1. Did you ever imitate someone when you were a kid?
2. What is your response to the statement, “The problem is you.”?
3. Why is it that we keep repeating the same things that have gotten us to where we are right now?
4. What does Galatians 5 describe as the products of the flesh?
5. In contrast to the products of the flesh, what are the products of the spirit?
6. Is it possible that we could imitate God to the point that people see God in us?