Therefore do not be partners with them. Ephesians 5:7
Where the west meets the east is a good description of Ephesus. A Greek city ruled by Rome with a diverse population. Race issues existed, prejudices followed and viewpoints complicated resolutions. Paul brought a Gospel of unity and transformation.
As a redeemed people, Christians are obligated to live differently. To know that Jesus lives means to embrace His standard. If He wouldn’t do it, then you shouldn’t either….for any reason…… If He wouldn’t think it, then put it out of your mind, it will destroy everything you ever dreamed of!
Behavior patterns of the past, the world of sin and darkness, must be discarded. Bitterness, spite, selfishness, must be replaced with truth, kindness and honesty. Paul states very clearly the characteristics of those who will miss their inheritance to the Kingdom and then he simply says, “Separate yourself from their behavior! Don’t be like them, but be remolded by Christ.”
Love,
Gretchen