“Ephesians 5”

Thursday, May 11, 2017

In one sense, verses 1-21 are a continuation from Chapter Four, emphasizing the differences between the old man and the new man. This section, however, deals almost exclusively with “old person” actions, sins that must be repented of and stopped. He encourages them to avoid immorality and specifies several sins and areas of the world to forsake.

The New International Version says that there should not even be a “hint” of immorality in our lives. He especially reminds them that “because of these things the wrath of God come upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore, do not be partakers with them.”

He refers to the old man and the new man briefly in verse 8 where he uses the common Biblical analogy of darkness and light. As children of the light, we are to possess certain qualities (what he calls the “fruit of the Spirit,” remember that phrase from Galatians?). And at the same time, we must not only have no fellowship with evil, but it is our responsibility to expose those things that are shameful to even speak of.

Verse 15 begins a short discussion of walking wisely in the world. To do that, we must make the most of every opportunity to do good (that’s what he means by redeeming the time, using it wisely) In verse 17, he states again that we not only can understand the will of God, but we must.

All of this is what he opens the chapter by reminding us that he are to “walk in love,” as the Lord desires.

In verses 22-33, he changes the subject, by getting more specific about how spouses are to treat each other.

The church is the bride of Christ. And no bride ever had a more loving husband. The relationship between Christ and His church is so perfect in its design that the Lord uses it as an illustration and model for the roles of all husbands and wives.

Christ is head of the church and the husband is head of the wife. The wife is to be subject to her husband as the church submits to Christ. Christ sacrificed Himself for the church and the husband must be willing to do the same for his wife.

There is mutual respect and love between Christ and the church and the same love and respect should exist between every husband and wife.

--Roger Hillis

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