1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;
2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.
3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;
4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.
5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.
6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.
7 Be not ye therefore partakers with them.
8 For ye were sometimes darkness, but now [are ye] light in the Lord: walk as children of light:
9 (For the fruit of the Spirit [is] in all goodness and righteousness and truth;)
10 Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.
11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove [them].
12 For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret.
13 But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light.
14 Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.
15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,
16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord [is].
18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;
21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.
24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so [let] the wives [be] to their own husbands in every thing.
25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;
26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,
27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
28 So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.
29 For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:
30 For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.
31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
32 This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
33 Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife [see] that she reverence [her] husband.
Overview of Ephesians Chapter 5
Ephesians Chapter 5 is a pivotal section of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, focusing on the themes of Christian living, love, and the relationship between Christ and the Church. The chapter emphasizes the importance of imitating God, living in love, and understanding the significance of light in the believer’s life.
Key Themes
- Imitation of God
- Living in Love
- Light vs. Darkness
- Marital Relationships
Imitation of God (Ephesians 5:1-2)
Paul opens the chapter by urging believers to be imitators of God. This call to imitation is rooted in the understanding that Christians are children of God. The act of imitating God is closely linked to living a life of love, as exemplified by Christ’s sacrificial love for humanity.
- Believers are called to reflect God’s character.
- Love is central to the Christian experience.
- Christ’s sacrifice serves as the ultimate model of love.
Warnings Against Immorality (Ephesians 5:3-7)
In this section, Paul provides a stark contrast between the life of a believer and the behaviors associated with the world. He warns against sexual immorality, impurity, and greed, emphasizing that such behaviors are not fitting for those who are part of God’s kingdom.
- Sexual Immorality: Paul highlights that it should not even be named among believers.
- Impurity and Greed: These are identified as idolatrous practices.
- Consequences: Paul warns that those who engage in such behaviors will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Living as Children of Light (Ephesians 5:8-14)
Paul transitions to the metaphor of light, encouraging believers to walk as children of light. This section emphasizes the transformative power of the Gospel and the moral responsibilities that come with being illuminated by Christ.
- Believers are called to expose darkness through their actions.
- Goodness, righteousness, and truth should characterize their lives.
- Awakening from spiritual slumber is a key theme, urging believers to live purposefully.
Instructions for Wise Living (Ephesians 5:15-21)
Paul provides practical guidance for living wisely in a world filled with challenges. He emphasizes the importance of making the most of every opportunity and being filled with the Spirit rather than indulging in drunkenness.
- Wisdom: Believers are encouraged to act wisely and discern the will of the Lord.
- Spirit-Filled Living: This involves singing, making music, and giving thanks to God.
- Mutual Submission: Paul introduces the concept of submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.
Marital Relationships (Ephesians 5:22-33)
The chapter culminates in a profound discussion on the relationship between husbands and wives. Paul draws parallels between the marital relationship and the relationship between Christ and the Church.
- Wives: Called to submit to their husbands as to the Lord.
- Husbands: Commanded to love their wives sacrificially, just as Christ loved the Church.
- Unity: The mystery of marriage reflects the unity between Christ and the Church.
Conclusion
Ephesians Chapter 5 serves as a comprehensive guide for Christian conduct, emphasizing love, light, and the sanctity of marital relationships. The teachings encourage believers to live in a manner that reflects their identity as children of God, fostering a community that mirrors the love and unity found in Christ.
