1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.
2 And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
3 But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints.
4 Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.
5 For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.
6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience.
7 Therefore do not become partners with them;
8 for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.
9 for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true.
10 and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord.
11 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.
12 For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret.
13 But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible,
14 for anything that becomes visible is light.
15 Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise,
16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.
17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.
18 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,
19 addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart,
giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,
Submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.
22 Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord.
23 For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior.
24 Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands.
25 Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her,
26 that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word,
27 so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish.
28 In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself.
29 For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church,
30 because we are members of his body.
31 “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.”
32 This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church.
33 However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.
The True Meaning of Ephesians 5
The Epistle to the Ephesians is believed to have been written by the Apostle Paul, a former persecutor of the early Christian church who experienced a dramatic conversion and became one of the most influential figures in the spread of Christianity. Paul provides guidance to the believers in Ephesus on how to live a life worthy of their calling as followers of Christ in this chapter.
The chapter begins by exhorting the Ephesians to “be imitators of God” and to “walk in love” (Ephesians 5:1-2). Paul then warns against the sinful practices that were common in the pagan society of the time, such as sexual immorality, impurity, and greed (Ephesians 5:3-7). He reminds the believers that they were once “darkness” but now they are “light in the Lord” and should live accordingly (Ephesians 5:8-14).
The chapter also addresses the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit and the role of the Spirit in guiding the believer’s life (Ephesians 5:15-21). Paul then provides specific instructions for husbands and wives, parents and children, and slaves and masters, emphasizing the importance of submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ (Ephesians 5:22-6:9).
Throughout the chapter, Paul draws on imagery and themes from other biblical books, such as the creation account in Genesis and the teachings of Jesus in the Gospels. His words serve as a powerful reminder to the Ephesian believers, and to all who follow Christ, of the transformative power of the gospel and the call to live a life that reflects the love and holiness of God.
Ephesians 5:1-7
The passage in Ephesians 5:1-7 can be broken down into a few important sections which offer valuable insights for believers.
Verse 1 starts with “Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children,” which sets the tone for the entire passage. The call to imitate God is a powerful one, emphasizing the importance of reflecting God’s character in our lives. Believers can shine as lights in the world and draw others closer to Him by living in a way that mirrors the love, grace, and mercy of God. This call to imitate God is not merely a suggestion but a requirement for all followers of Christ.
Moving on to verse 2, which continues with “and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Here, the focus shifts to the sacrificial love of Christ as the ultimate example to follow. Jesus’ selfless act of laying down His life for humanity serves as the pinnacle of love and sets the standard for how we should love one another. We, as believers, are called to love others sacrificially, putting their needs above our own, just as Jesus did for us.
Verse 3 warns against behaviors that are incompatible with a life of love and imitation of God, stating, “But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people.” This serves as a reminder that as followers of Christ, our lives should be marked by purity and holiness. Sexual immorality, impurity, and greed are not to be tolerated among believers, as they are contrary to the nature of God and His standards for His people.
Continuing in verses 4-7, the passage delves deeper into the consequences of such behaviors and emphasizes the importance of living wisely. Verse 6 warns, “Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient.” This serves as a caution against deception and encourages believers to be discerning in discerning the truth from falsehood. Believers are called to walk in the light of God’s truth and not be swayed by deceptive teachings that lead away from His path. Believers should imitate God, walk in love, live lives of purity and holiness, and be discerning in a world filled with deception, as the passage in Ephesians 5:1-7 concludes. Believers can honor God, reflect His character to the world, and experience the blessings that come from living in alignment with His will by following these instructions. It reinforces the timeless message of living in a manner worthy of the calling we have received as Christians (Ephesians 4:1) and being transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2) to live as lights in a dark world (Matthew 5:14-16).
Ephesians 5:8-14
The passage in Ephesians 5:8-14 can be broken down into several key sections. “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.” This section begins by highlighting a transformative shift that has occurred in the lives of the believers. It emphasizes a transition from darkness to light, signifying a change from a state of spiritual ignorance and sin to one of enlightenment and righteousness in Christ. Here, the concept of light is used symbolically to represent truth, goodness, and purity, while darkness embodies falsehood, evil, and sin. Paul reminds the readers of their new identity as children of light and urges them to embrace this new way of life and walk in a manner consistent with their newfound identity in Christ.
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“For the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth.” This section focuses on the fruit that results from living as children of light. The outcome of walking in the light is characterized by goodness, righteousness, and truth. Believers bear fruit that not only benefits themselves but also contributes to the building of God’s kingdom as they align themselves with God’s ways and reflect His character. This portrayal of the transformed life serves as a model for how Christians are called to live in a manner that is pleasing to God and edifying to others.
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“Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” Here, Paul instructs believers to actively distance themselves from the unproductive and sinful actions associated with darkness. Rather than partaking in behaviors that are contrary to God’s will, they are encouraged to expose and confront such deeds. Believers are called to discern and address the works of evil, both in their own lives and in the world around them, by shining the light of truth on darkness. This mandate underscores the importance of living with discernment and moral courage in a world that is marked by spiritual darkness and moral decay.
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“But everything exposed by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light. Paul conveys the illuminating power of the light of Christ in this final section. Just as light reveals hidden truths and dispels darkness, so too does the presence of Christ in the lives of believers illuminate their hearts and minds. Believers become beacons of God’s truth and love in a world that is in desperate need of His light by allowing the light of Christ to shine through them. This transformative process not only impacts individuals but also has the potential to illuminate the lives of others, drawing them into the saving grace of Christ. Paul’s exhortation in Ephesians 5:8-14 serves as a reminder of the believers’ new identity in Christ and the transformative power of His light in their lives as they are encouraged to live as children of light. This passage underscores the call for moral purity, discernment, and courageous witness in a world marked by spiritual darkness. Believers have the opportunity to bear fruit that reflects God’s goodness, righteousness, and truth by embracing their identity as children of light and allowing the light of Christ to shine through them, ultimately bringing glory to His name. The imagery of light and darkness in this passage echoes throughout the Bible, emphasizing the themes of spiritual transformation, moral clarity, and the ongoing battle between good and evil. Believers who seek to walk in the light and expose the deeds of darkness participate in God’s redemptive work, embodying His love and grace in a world that is in need of His saving light.
Ephesians 5:15-20
The Apostle Paul provides wise counsel to the Ephesian church and, by extension, to all believers in Ephesians 5:15-20. Let’s break down this verse into important sections and provide in-depth commentary on its meaning and impact on the Bible’s timeless messages.
Verse 15 begins by urging believers to be careful how they live, not as unwise but as wise. Paul is encouraging Christians to live intentionally and purposefully, making the most of every opportunity that comes their way. This message is still very relevant today. Believers in a world filled with distractions and temptations are called to be diligent in their walk with Christ, making choices that align with God’s will.
Moving on to verse 16, we see Paul emphasizing the importance of making the most of every opportunity because the days are evil. This highlights the urgency of the believers’ mission. Time is a precious gift from God, and we are called to use it wisely for His glory. This sentiment is echoed in other parts of the Bible, such as Psalm 90:12, which says, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Paul instructs the Ephesians not to be foolish but to understand what the Lord’s will is in verse 17. This is a powerful reminder that as Christians, our ultimate goal is to align our lives with God’s will. Understanding and following God’s will requires seeking Him through prayer, studying His Word, and being sensitive to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Proverbs 3:5-6 captures this sentiment beautifully: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Verse 18 warns against getting drunk with wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, believers are encouraged to be filled with the Spirit. This contrast between the empty pleasures of the world and the fullness of the Spirit is a common theme in the Bible. Being filled with the Spirit signifies allowing the Holy Spirit to have control over every aspect of our lives, guiding our thoughts, words, and actions. This is a transformative process that enables believers to bear the fruit of the Spirit as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23.
Finally, in verses 19-20, Paul emphasizes the importance of worship and thanksgiving in the Christian life. Believers are called to express their gratitude through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making music from their hearts to the Lord. This act of worship not only uplifts the individual believer but also builds up the body of Christ. Giving thanks in all circumstances, as mentioned in verse 20, is a powerful testimony to our trust in God’s sovereignty and goodness, regardless of our circumstances. Believers can live wisely, make the most of their time, seek God’s will, be filled with the Spirit, and engage in heartfelt worship and thanksgiving through the timeless wisdom provided in Ephesians 5:15-20. These instructions are as relevant today as they were for the Ephesian church, guiding believers to walk in a manner worthy of their calling and to shine the light of Christ in a dark and broken world.
Ephesians 5:21-33
The Bible in Ephesians 5:21-33 draws parallels between the union of a husband and wife and the relationship between Christ and the church. Let’s break down this verse into important sections and analyze the significance of each part:
- Verse 21: “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.”
This verse sets the tone for the subsequent discussion on relationships. It emphasizes mutual submission and respect in all human relationships, particularly in the marital context. The act of submission is not meant to be one-sided; rather, it is a mutual giving of oneself in love, just as Christ submitted himself out of love for the Church. This principle of mutual submission is crucial in fostering healthy and harmonious relationships, where both parties prioritize the needs and well-being of the other.
- Verses 22-24: “Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.”
These verses often evoke strong reactions due to the use of the word “submit.” However, it’s important to understand this within the context of the time and the culture in which it was written. The submission mentioned here is not about inferiority or oppression; rather, it is about honoring the God-given roles within marriage. Just as the Church follows Christ’s loving leadership, wives are called to respect and honor their husbands as the head of the household. This does not diminish the worth or value of the wife but rather establishes order and unity within the marriage.
- Verses 25-33: “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. Husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies in this same way. He who loves his wife loves himself. After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church— for we are members of his body. ‘For this reason, a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.’ This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.”
These verses highlight the sacrificial love that husbands are called to demonstrate towards their wives. Husbands are instructed to love their wives unconditionally, just as Christ loved the Church to the point of laying down his life for her. This kind of love is selfless, nurturing, and seeks the well-being and spiritual growth of the spouse. The comparison between the marriage relationship and the relationship between Christ and the Church emphasizes the sanctity and depth of the marital bond. Just as Christ cherishes and cares for the Church, husbands are to cherish and care for their wives with the same level of devotion. Ephesians 5:21-33 provides a blueprint for healthy, Christ-centered relationships, especially within the context of marriage. It underscores the importance of mutual submission, sacrificial love, respect, and unity in marriage. Husbands and wives are called to prioritize the well-being and spiritual growth of each other, creating a relationship that reflects the divine love and unity by mirroring the love and sacrificial nature of Christ’s relationship with the Church.
After Ephesians 5
We have learned about the importance of living in love and following the example of Christ in our relationships in this chapter. We are reminded to walk in the light, to be wise, and to be filled with the Spirit. Let us honor the Lord in all that we do by striving to live in a way that is pleasing to Him. Let us remember to be kind and compassionate to one another as we reflect on these teachings, forgiving as the Lord forgave us. We will walk in love, following the path that Christ has set before us. In the next chapter, we will delve deeper into the practical ways in which we can live out these principles in our daily lives. We will continue to grow in faith and love, seeking to be a light in the world around us.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.