As we continue with our study of Paul’s general exhortations to holiness, we will consider the argument he uses in these verses to encourage holiness of life amongst the Christians in Ephesus who were called upon to live for the Saviour in the midst of heathen wickedness. Consider:—  

I. THE DIVERGENCE OF VIEWS BETWEEN GOD AND MAN ON THE MATTER OF SIN

God condemns sin while men condone it.  

1. It is the preacher’s duty to represent God at all times. God’s view is our rule. “But truly I am full of power by the spirit of the LORD, and of judgment, and of might, to declare unto Jacob his transgression, and to Israel his sin,” Micah 3:8. See here the cooperation between God and preacher. Fulness of the Holy Ghost has only one purpose — speak for God! Paul had dealt with this matter before. “For this ye know . . .”  

2. The reign of sin in the heart is inconsistent with true grace. Rom 6:1-6; 12-14; 17-23.