Saturday, April 23, 2011

Cult of Dionysus

Ephesians
The cult of Dionysus, an ancient religion coming from Asia to Greece, involved sensual, orgiastic ceremonies, and lots of wine.  People would become intoxicated and do all sorts of immoral acts.  The drunkenness brought on by the wine was often equated to being filled with the spirit of Dionysus (this information derived from the Archaeological Study Bible).
Paul wrote to the Ephesians and told them that they should avoid even the hint of sexual immorality or any kind of impurity.  Instead of getting drunk on wine, which some may have thought would lead to being filled by the Holy Spirit, Paul told them to be filled with the Holy Spirit.
We don't have to use outward means to try and create a holy, God-filled experience.  God lives in us and works through us directly!  When we earnestly seek him, he will fill us up.

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