You, says Paul, have not learned Christ in such a way! You are completely different from the pagan world. You are salt, and light. There is a clear and definite line of demarcation between the church and the world. Are we showing that difference?

Our Lord Jesus Christ could mix with publicans and sinners . . . but he was never mistaken for one of them!

We are not at home in the atmosphere of this world. We are looking for a better one, a heavenly one (Heb. 11: 13-16).

(1) You have been taught by him (Eph. 4:20-21). They had learned Christ. Christianity is not vague and nebulous. "Love" is not enough; there must be this knowledge of sound doctrine. You have learned the right doctrine! You have learned the truth as it is in Jesus.

(2) This message controls you! You have apprehended, truly understood; the truth has not only gripped your mind it has gripped your heart. You have surrendered to it I You are mastered by it I It means that Christ is the chief thing in your life.

(3) You have put off the old corruptions (Eph. 4:22-23, 25-31). The corruption which is according to deceitful lusts leads to final destruction.

Conclusion

The world's trouble is that lust is in control. Evil desires govern, instead of God. Reason and understanding have been thrown overboard . . . steady decay is all around. . . what a havoc sin has made! Don't let it destroy your life!

Guardian of Truth XXXII: 22, p. 680
November 17, 1988