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

Pastor William Mathis
Sep 7
2 min read

Series Theme: Intentionality

“REDEEMING THE TIME” PT II

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

1. ARISE AND SEE YOUR OPPORTUNITIES (v.14)

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

Big Idea: Life is full of open doors—but you have to wake up to see them.
For Christians: Christ gives light to see opportunities to grow, serve, and witness. Don’t miss them by staying spiritually asleep.
For Non-Christians: Life has moments that can shift your whole future. Pay attention—don’t sleepwalk through them.
Practical Application:
- Each morning, ask: Where’s the opportunity today? Who can I help? What can I learn?
- Stop waiting for “perfect” timing—sometimes opportunity looks ordinary.
- Pay attention to small nudges—phone calls, ideas, or encounters could be God’s opening.

2. ACT WITHOUT HESITATION (v.15–16)

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

Big Idea: Opportunities don’t wait. If you hesitate, you might miss what could change everything.
For Christians: Wisdom is not just knowing what to do—it’s doing it when God says move.
For Non-Christians: Don’t procrastinate on decisions that could improve your life or protect your future.
Practical Application:
- Trust your preparation. Don’t talk yourself out of what you know is right.
- If God is calling you to serve, forgive, or step up—do it now.
- Replace hesitation with prayerful boldness: “Lord, give me courage to move.”

3. AUDIT YOUR STEPS (v.17)

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

Big Idea: Just like buildings need inspections, your life needs regular check-ups. Look at how you’re living and where you’re headed.
For Christians: Test your walk—are your choices lining up with God’s will?
For Non-Christians: Evaluate your life. Are your steps leading to peace and purpose, or confusion and emptiness?
Practical Application:
- At the end of each week, reflect: Did my actions match my values and vision?
- Ask trusted people to give feedback—sometimes others see what you miss.
- Make small adjustments quickly instead of waiting until things fall apart.

✅ Key Takeaway:Redeeming the time means waking up, moving quickly, and regularly checking your direction. Intentional living is not just about speed—it’s about awareness, action, and alignment.