Be Filled with the Holy Spirit – A Worthy Walk in Christ

As we gather tonight to study God’s Word, I invite you to open your Bible to Ephesians 5:18. This verse will serve as the foundation for our discussion.

Tonight’s message will be part sermon, part lecture—blending Scripture and history to help deepen our understanding. The latter half of the book of Ephesians focuses on the Christian life. In Ephesians 4:1, Paul urges believers to “walk in a manner worthy of the calling” they have received. This call to a worthy walk extends through chapters 4, 5, and 6, where Paul lays out what it means to live a life that honors God.

At the heart of this calling is the command to “be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18). This phrase does not refer to filling a glass with liquid but rather to filling a sail—being moved and guided by the Holy Spirit. A parallel verse, Colossians 3:16, instructs believers to “let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly.” Together, these verses highlight the need for a Spirit-filled, Word-centered life. Walking in step with the Holy Spirit means aligning our lives with God’s Word and allowing His power to shape us.

In our morning sessions, we explored the Spirit’s role in our lives. As believers, we are called to yield to His transforming work. He conforms us to Christ, leads us in obedience, frees us from sin, and gives us joy in following God’s law. Our role is not to resist but to surrender, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us.

Last time, we examined this in depth, but tonight, we return to Ephesians 5:18 to focus on the first part of the verse: “Do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit.” At first glance, this contrast may seem unusual. Why does Paul compare drunkenness with being filled with the Holy Spirit?

The Bible clearly condemns drunkenness as sin. Both Scripture and experience show that alcohol often leads to reckless, immoral behavior and a loss of self-control. The term “dissipation” refers to reckless indulgence and a lack of restraint. 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 warns that those who live in such a way will not inherit the Kingdom of God. Drunkenness is consistently listed among the sins of unbelievers, marking a lifestyle that is contrary to God’s will.

But why is this contrasted with being filled with the Holy Spirit? Some suggest that both involve being “under the influence”—one of alcohol, the other of the Spirit. While that comparison has some merit, Paul’s point here is much deeper. This passage is not just about personal conduct; it is about worship. Being filled with the Holy Spirit is essential for true worship and a life that glorifies God.

As we continue our study tonight, we will explore how being filled with the Holy Spirit transforms our worship, our walk, and our witness. May we seek to live under His influence, walking in the power of the Spirit and reflecting Christ in all we do.