Pastor Bruce Burkett, one of the leading voices in the rural ministry movement, preached a message on God’s pursuit of man, and in his message, he gave –5 Realities You Discover When You’re Pursued By God.

I want to look at those five realities in the life of Jonah today.

Ephesians 5:8– “For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:”

Paul gives us three admonitions concerning our walk.

Today we look at - "Walking in Love."

Ephesians 5:1-2– “Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savor.”

Introduction to Ephesians 5:1-17. 

I didn't have time to record our daily Bible study podcast this morning, so instead, here is a portion of a message I preached at the Midwest Church Planter's Conference in Sioux Falls. 

II Timothy 4:7 - "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:"

Three Words That Led To Jonah's Slumber

5 Thoughts Concerning God’s Instructions:

1. God’s instructions are often relational

2. Don’t is always replaced with Do

3. Scripture is filled with warnings and instructions

4. God’s warnings and commands are loving and liberating

5. They are motivated and empowered by God’s Spirit within me

We wrap up Ephesians 4 by looking at some practical ways to resolve conflict and restore relationship in your church.

We wrap up Ephesians 4 by looking at some practical ways to resolve conflict and restore relationship in your church. 

Ephesians 4:32– “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.”

Forgiveness sets us on the path to liberty. When you forgive, you set two people free – with one of them being yourself.