Ephesians 5:18-20

Introduction: The CHRISTian life is the “REAL DEAL”!

**Be filled!
{By God the Holy Spirit}

**Be thrilled!
{By God the Son}

**Be Fulfilled!
{By God the Father}

After informing the Ephesian believers about their – BLESSINGS (Eph 1-3), their BENEFITS (Eph 4, 5), and their BATTLES (Eph 6), Paul admonishes them to walk cautiously (Eph 5:15), use their time wisely (Eph 5:16), and live joyfully (Eph 5:17). Next, he instructs both them and us about three (3) Daily Decisions that Determine if we are Devoted Disciples:

1. “Be Filled”! (Eph 5:18)

“18And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;”

{The words “Be filled” are plēróō, which is in the present tense, and means continuous action. In other words, this is not a once and for all deal. But rather, it means go on being filled…over and over again.}

{The words “Be filled” are plural, which means it is for all believers not just missionaries and preachers}

{The words “Be filled” are in the imperative mood, which means it is a command not a suggestion}

{Notice the context: Especially see this essential “Be filled” is for both husbands and wives as well as parents and children – Eph 5:21-33; 6:4}

Are you “Spirit filled”? Are we under the control of the Holy Spirit?

2. “Be Thrilled”! (Eph 5:19)

“19Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.”

{Do you sing and praise the Lord daily? We all could probably use a little improvement in this area.}

3. “Be Fulfilled”! (Eph 5:20)

“Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

{Thanks giving is thanksgiving! We all have a lot to be thankful for!!}

Conclusion: In short, the Holy Spirit “POURS into,” so that we can “PRAISE upward,” and “PURPOSE to serve outward”!

With…..

** Unlimited Resources

** Unchangeable Principles

** Unmerited Favor

** Unspeakable Glory

…..like the Ephesian believers, we can experience the abundant life in Christ.

***Bottom Line

Jesus is the “REAL DEAL”!