How should we live now that we belong to God? Ephesians 5 offers a powerful answer: as imitators of Christ, walking in love, light, and wisdom. This passage serves as a practical guide for believers, instructing us on purity, relationships, and how to make the best use of our time. With a focus on love, sacrifice, and unity, Ephesians 5 challenges us to reflect Christ’s character in our daily lives.
Walking in Love: A Life of Sacrifice
Paul opens Ephesians 5 by calling us to be “imitators of God” and to walk in love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself for us. This kind of love is sacrificial, selfless, and deeply transformative.
The imagery of a “fragrant offering” refers to Old Testament sacrifices, where people would offer incense or burnt offerings to please God. Today, rather than physical sacrifices, we are called to offer our lives as a pleasing sacrifice—choosing love, kindness, and service over selfishness.
This love extends into our words and actions. Paul warns against immoral behavior—sexual impurity, greed, and crude speech—stressing that such things have no place in the life of a believer. Instead, our lives should be marked by gratitude, lifting others up rather than tearing them down.
Living as Children of Light
Paul contrasts darkness and light, urging believers to walk as children of light. Darkness represents sin, secrecy, and deception, while light symbolizes truth, righteousness, and exposure. He calls us not just to avoid darkness but to expose it—to be a beacon of truth in a world that often turns a blind eye to wrongdoing.
The analogy of light shining in the darkness is a strong one. Just as a flashlight reveals dangers on a dark path, God’s truth reveals sin and leads to righteousness. This means standing up for what is right, refusing to participate in harmful behaviors, and helping others find the way to truth.
Wisdom in How We Live
Paul warns believers to use their time wisely, emphasizing that “the days are evil.” In a world full of distractions, we are encouraged to focus on things that truly matter. Rather than wasting time, we should seek God’s will, making the most of every opportunity.
A fascinating point is the comparison between drunkenness and being filled with the Spirit. Paul contrasts the reckless excesses of pagan culture (such as drunken celebrations in honor of false gods) with the joy and peace that come from being filled with God’s presence. Instead of losing control, we should allow the Spirit to guide us in how we speak, act, and treat others.
Submission and Love in Relationships
One of the most debated parts of Ephesians 5 is the passage on submission in marriage. Paul instructs wives to submit to their husbands “as to the Lord” and husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church. Unfortunately, this passage has been misused in history, leading some to view submission as oppression rather than a mutual act of love and respect.
True biblical submission is not about control or power but about humility and service. Some describe it as a “race to the bottom,” where instead of seeking dominance, believers strive to serve one another. Husbands are not to demand obedience but to love sacrificially, just as Christ gave His life for the church.
Paul reinforces that marriage reflects Christ’s relationship with the church. Husbands and wives are called to unity, love, and mutual respect. A husband who truly loves his wife will prioritize her well-being above his own, just as Christ does for us.
Key Takeaways
- Imitate Christ’s Love – Live a life marked by sacrifice, kindness, and selflessness.
- Walk in Light – Expose darkness, stand for truth, and be a source of goodness in the world.
- Use Time Wisely – Prioritize spiritual growth and meaningful actions over distractions.
- Be Filled with the Spirit – Seek God’s presence rather than temporary pleasures.
- Practice Mutual Submission – In relationships, aim for humility, service, and love.
Conclusion
Ephesians 5 offers a profound blueprint for Christian living, calling us to reflect Christ’s love in every aspect of our lives. Whether in our words, relationships, or daily choices, we are encouraged to live with wisdom, purity, and a heart of service.
As we strive to walk in love, light, and wisdom, may we always remember that true leadership is found in service, and true love is found in sacrifice.