Ephesians 4:31-32

What Does Ephesians 4:31-32 Mean?

Paul gives a very specific list of things to get rid of: bitterness (holding onto hurt), wrath (explosive anger), slander (saying bad things about people), and malice (wanting bad things for someone). Then he gives the replacement list: kindness, a tender heart, and forgiveness. And the reason to forgive? Because God in Christ has already forgiven us in the most amazing way possible.

Hero Challenge

This week, make a two-column chart. In the first column, write down any bitterness, anger, or unkind thoughts you have been holding onto. In the second column, write what you want to replace them with. Then pray over both columns, asking God to help you make the swap!

Did You Know?

Paul wrote this letter to the church in Ephesus while he was in prison. Even from prison, he was focused not on his own problems but on encouraging other people to live well together. His example shows that it is possible to choose kindness and forgiveness even when your own circumstances are very hard.

Ages 4-6: Little Hero Question

Have you ever felt grumpy or mad at someone for a long time? How did that feel in your tummy? What could you do to let that grumpy feeling go?

Ages 7-9: Growing Hero Question

Paul says to be “tenderhearted.” What do you think that means? Can you think of someone in your life who has a tenderhearted way of treating people?

Ages 10-13: Champion Question

Paul grounds forgiveness in what God did through Christ – not just in a rule or a feeling. How does making forgiveness about who God is and what He did, rather than about the other person deserving it, change your ability to actually forgive?