SERMON NOTES WITH APPLICATION - “REDEEMING THE TIME” PT I - EPHESIANS 5:14-17 (MSG)

Series Theme: Intentionality

“REDEEMING THE TIME” PT I

(Ephesians 5:14–17, MSG)General Theme: Hidden Manna

1. COME TO YOURSELF (v.14)

"Wake up from your sleep, climb out of your coffins; Christ will show you the light!"

• Big Idea: Stop living on autopilot. Wake up to who you really are and what God is calling you to.

• For Christians: This is a spiritual check-up. Don’t drift. Pay attention to your walk with Christ.

• For Non-Christians: Sometimes life feels like a blur. Waking up means facing your reality, owning your choices, and being open to a new way of living.

• Practical Application:

  • Ask yourself daily: Am I awake to what’s happening in me and around me?

  • Set aside moments to pause and reflect instead of just reacting.

  • Surround yourself with people who will call you higher, not lull you to sleep.

2. CASH IN ON YOUR OPPORTUNITIES (v.15–16)

"So watch your step. Use your head. Make the most of every chance you get. These are desperate times!"

• Big Idea: Life is short, and opportunities don’t last forever. Don’t waste them.

• For Christians: God places chances to love, serve, and grow all around you—grab them before they pass.

• For Non-Christians: Every choice matters. Every moment can shape your future. Time is valuable—don’t let it slip away.

• Practical Application:

  • Keep a “yes” spirit when it comes to doing good.

  • Say what needs to be said today—don’t assume you’ll get another chance.

  • Treat time like currency: invest it in relationships, growth, and purpose.

3. CONSTANTLY COMMUNE WITH YOUR VISION (v.17)

"Don’t live carelessly, unthinkingly. Make sure you understand what the Master wants."

• Big Idea: Vision gives direction. Without it, life gets wasted.

• For Christians: Stay connected to God’s will—what He’s revealed for your life and the church.

• For Non-Christians: Even if you’re not following Christ yet, you need clarity about what you want your life to stand for.

• Practical Application:

  • Write down your vision—spiritual goals, personal goals, family goals. Keep them in front of you.

  • Pray or meditate daily to re-align with your purpose.

  • Before decisions, ask: Does this move me toward my vision, or away from it?

✅ Key Takeaway:Redeeming the time means being awake, intentional, and purposeful. Don’t sleepwalk through life. Cash in on opportunities. Stay connected to your vision.