Sanctified Speech

In this eleventh message, Paul stresses that Christlikeness requires sanctified speech. In loving GOD believers must devote themselves to prayer. This relationship includes three aspects: (1) working hard by persevering in talking to God; (2) watching carefully by vigilantly keeping alert to spiritual dangers; and (3) waiting on God to answer our request for an open door for the word - for two reasons: (a) so that we may speak forth the mystery of Christ and (b) that we may make it clear as we ought to speak. In loving MEN (our neighbors) believers must conduct themselves with wisdom. This outreach includes two aspects: (1) walking boldly day by day around unbelievers by (a) being skillful with spiritual insight and (b) being smart in taking advantage of favorable opportunities. And (2) wooing unbelievers with grace (charming generosity) by being (a) savory (tasteful, flavorful) in our lifestyle and (b) shrewd (sensible, discerning) in our response to each individual unbeliever.