Church of House Churches

Learning How to Walk by Sam Storms (Ephesians 5:2–6)

Have you ever felt that modern Christianity has become so "sensitive" to the culture that it has lost its ability to speak clearly about the things that actually destroy us? In this message on Ephesians 5:2–6, Sam Storms contrasts the "seeker-sensitive" movement of the last 40 years—which often removed crosses and "offensive" religious language—with the blunt, uncompromising approach of the Apostle Paul. He argues that Paul doesn't offer "helpful hints for happy living" but instead issues a stark warning against sexual immorality, impurity, and covetousness. Storms particularly highlights that greed is not just a social flaw but a form of "idolatry," where we replace the all-consuming joy of God with "trinkets and toys" that can never satisfy. Yet, he reminds us that our "walk" is not powered by the fear of wrath alone, but by the reality of being "dearly loved children". Because Christ gave himself up for us as a "fragrant offering and sacrifice to God," our motivation to walk in purity is a response to the sweet-smelling aroma of His grace. This invites us to see holiness not as a religious burden, but as the natural way of life for those who have found their deepest satisfaction in God rather than the world.