Living A New Life

Every person’s life is profoundly shaped by the story of their family of origin. Whether one’s background was filled with love, hardship, or a mixture of both, those formative experiences have an impact. However, the truth of the gospel is that through Christ, every believer receives a new origin story—a new identity in the family of God.

The Apostle Paul emphasizes this truth in Ephesians 5:1-2, calling believers to embrace their new life and leave behind the old ways of living:


At the heart of this passage is the transformational love of God—a love so profound that it calls believers to live differently, to reflect Christ’s character, and to pursue what is truly good. Paul goes on to outline what this new life looks like and warns against falling back into destructive patterns that hinder human flourishing.

One of Paul’s primary concerns is that believers do not let the things of the world become their idols. In Ephesians 5:3-5, he highlights three key areas where people are most tempted to substitute God’s best with counterfeits offered by the world.


Paul warns against what can be considered a "triple threat" to the Christian life:

1. The Misuse of Sex – Engaging in sexual acts for personal gratification without regard for God’s intent or the well-being of others.
2. The Loss of Integrity – Allowing moral corruption, deceit, or impurity to take root in one's life.
3. The Relentless Pursuit of More – The insatiable desire for wealth, status, or possessions at the expense of godliness.

1. The Misuse of Sex
The word Paul uses for sexual immorality is the Greek term "porneia," which refers to any sexual practice that falls outside of God’s design. This includes adultery, fornication, and the exploitation of others through pornography or casual relationships.

In today’s culture, the Christian sexual ethic is often seen as outdated. Statistics show that a significant number of young adult Christians engage in premarital sex, reflecting the broader societal trend that separates sexuality from commitment. However, Paul’s warning isn’t meant to shame but to protect. God’s design for sex within marriage fosters trust, emotional security, and deep soul connection—something that casual encounters can never replicate.

Paul also warns against taking advantage of others sexually. This speaks to more than just physical acts—it includes manipulation, exploitation, and selfish intent. When individuals pursue their own pleasure without considering the emotional and spiritual impact their actions have on the other person, they violate God’s command to love and honor one another.

2. The Loss of Integrity
The word “impurity” (Greek: akatharsia) refers to moral corruption that creeps into one’s thoughts, actions, and speech. Much like a computer virus, even small breaches in integrity can spread and corrupt one’s entire character.

Unchecked impurity often begins with small compromises—a willingness to bend the truth, rationalize bad decisions, or justify harmful actions. Over time, these compromises distort character, leading to a loss of credibility and spiritual numbness.

3. The Relentless Pursuit of More
The final warning in this passage is against greed. Paul equates greed with idolatry—the worship of something other than God. Greed isn’t just about money; it’s about an insatiable desire for control, power, or material wealth.


In contrast, Paul offers a powerful antidote to greed: gratitude. A heart that is thankful to God is less likely to chase temporary pleasures because it finds satisfaction in the blessings that have already been given.

Paul continues his message in Ephesians 5:6-14, urging believers not to be deceived by empty excuses that justify sin. He warns:


The world will always offer justifications for sin, often presenting it as normal, acceptable, or even good. Some of the most common excuses include:

• "Times have changed—these biblical teachings are outdated."
• "If it makes me happy, then God must be okay with it."
• "As long as I don’t hurt anyone, it’s fine."

Paul encourages believers to reject these excuses and instead embrace the light of Christ. This means:

• Being mindful of personal influences—avoiding environments that normalize sin.
• Setting boundaries in relationships and behaviors.
• Living in a way that reflects God’s truth and goodness.

Paul makes it clear that believers are not called to condemn the world but rather to let their transformed lives be a testimony. When non-believers see the contrast between a life rooted in Christ’s love and one that is entangled in self-centered desires, many will be drawn toward the light.

Paul closes this section with a call to intentional living:


The unexamined life leads to wasted potential, shallow relationships, and missed opportunities to fulfill God’s purpose. Instead, Paul urges us as believers to:

1. Be self-aware—regularly evaluate personal habits, influences, and motivations.
2. Pay attention to the needs of others—seeking ways to serve them and lift them up.
3. Be thoughtful, not reactive—avoiding emotional impulsivity and, instead, making wise choices.
4. Stay filled with the Spirit—relying on God’s presence to guide and strengthen daily life.

Paul concludes with an encouragement to make music together in worship:


Music has a profound ability to shape identity, unite people, and elevate the soul. Whether through corporate worship or personal reflection, music allows believers to remember who they are in Christ and remain anchored in his love.

Paul’s message in Ephesians 5 is both a warning and an invitation. Believers are loved too much to continue in old ways that lead to brokenness and disillusionment. Instead, they are called to:

• Reject the idols of the world
• Walk in the light of Christ
• Live with wisdom and intentionality
• Find joy in worship and gratitude

The life God offers is far greater than anything the world can provide. It is a life of freedom, love, and purpose. So the question is: Will you step into the light?