The Beatles said all we need is love. Forty years later, things haven't gotten better. That's because the world's version of love and God's version are completely different things.

In this message from our series "Fullness," Pastor Ron opens Ephesians 5:1–7 and contrasts Christ's love — the only pattern worth following — with the world's counterfeit version.

The Pattern — Mimic God: Paul uses the word mimitas — to follow exclusively, the way a street mime copies every movement of the person walking by. Children naturally imitate their parents. Paul says we are dear children of God, so imitate Him. Walk in love as Christ loved us — sacrificial, unconditional, asking nothing in return.

The Sacrifice — A Sweet Smelling Aroma: Christ gave himself as an offering in the pattern of the Old Testament burnt, grain, and peace offerings — total surrender, perfect provision, and restored fellowship. When he took our sin on the cross, it was also a sweet smelling aroma because it was completely and totally acceptable — the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.

The Perversion — What the World Calls Love: In contrast to agape, the world's love is self-indulgent and reciprocal. Paul lists fornication, uncleanness, and covetousness — all of which, he says, should not even be named among God's people. He also identifies filthy language, foolish talking, and coarse jesting as sins of the mouth connected to base appetites of the heart.

The Punishment — Don't Be Deceived: False teachers in Ephesus were saying you could live however you wanted and still be a Christian. Paul says no — a person characterized by habitual, unrepentant sexual sin gives evidence they are not saved. A true believer, when they fall, feels the conviction. That's the difference.