CG Leaders

Encouragement & Resources

Wake-Up & Walk in the Light 

Ephesians 5:6-14

1. Warning Against Deception (v. 6–7)
  • Darkness distorts our desires and affections.
  • We must not partner with or participate in darkness.
  • Empty arguments try to make sin seem harmless or normal — don’t be deceived.

2. Our New Identity in Christ (v. 8–10)
  • Before Christ: We were darkness.
  • Now in Christ: We are light.
  • Our behavior must flow from our new belonging, not from striving to earn favor.
  • Healthy spiritual fruit grows from deep roots in Christ.

3. The Call to Awake (v. 11–14)
  • Don’t tolerate hidden sin — expose it by walking in light.
  • The Gospel acts like an alarm clock: “Wake up, sleeper!”
  • Christ shines on us when we rise to live in His light.

4. Walking in the Light Means Bearing Fruit:
  • Goodness — active love, grace, and justice.
  • Righteousness — integrity, truthfulness, and holiness in daily life.
  • Truth — living by God’s reality, not the world’s shifting definitions. 

Questions:

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Icebreaker: What is one way you have seen light overcome darkness in your life or the world around you this week?

  1. Reflect on the Metaphor of Light and Darkness: How does the metaphor of light and darkness in Ephesians 5:8-14 help us understand our identity in Christ? How can we actively “walk as children of light” in our daily lives?

  2. Facing the Son of God: Pastor Steve McKenzie emphasized the importance of facing towards Jesus to reflect His light. What are some practical ways we can ensure our lives are oriented towards Christ?

  3. Deception of Darkness: The sermon warns against the subtle deceptions of darkness. Can you identify areas in your life where you might be “softening the edges” of sin? How can we hold each other accountable in these areas?

  4. Identity and Behavior: Discuss the statement “He is grounding our behavior in our belonging.” How does understanding our identity in Christ transform our actions and attitudes?

  5. Practical Application: Pastor Steve mentioned reading the Bible not as a checklist, but to hear God’s voice. How can we incorporate this practice into our daily routine to deepen our spiritual roots?

  6. Community Impact: How can our church community collectively reflect Christ’s light to the broader community? What are some initiatives or actions we can take together?

  7. Call to Action: What is one specific change or action you feel led to take this week in response to the sermon’s message? How can we support each other in these commitments?