Ephesians 5 Commentary
Follow God’s example. Yes but how? Is it even possible? Verse 1 is an impossible instruction! We need to check further.
Verse 2 provides the clue. We must look at Jesus. He is our model. Verse 3 brings it home. Record zero readings in the following: sexual immorality, impurity, greediness, obscenity, foolish talk, and coarse joking.
Positively, let your life produce righteousness and truth. Verse 10 is important: Find out what pleases God…this is the saint’s daily task! Interestingly, it is one question we hardly ask! Search the scriptures to find out what pleases the LORD. Pray and let the Spirit show you things in your own environment.
Your Bible study becomes objective. You want to find out what pleases God. Your prayers aren’t aimless anymore. You want the LORD to show you what pleases Him.
Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise. Verse 15. Underline the word “VERY”. Does my life look like a “careful operation”? Never mind the phrase “very careful”!
“Carefree” is a positive word out there in the world. Not in the Body of Christ! Reverse the word, add “very” and you know you are living a Christ-like life.
You easily understand why you shouldn’t get drunk! The instruction to be careful (actually very careful) at all times forbids it! Instead, be filled with the Spirit.
Make music to the LORD from your heart! Every saint is a musician!
Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ – not because the brother deserves it!
If Christ loves me even with my daily imperfections, why shouldn’t I love my wife, regardless? Christ is the standard, He is the example. Follow the example of God, verse 1. He is the example we are to follow. Husbands are to love their wives the way Christ loves the church – and the church (you) isn’t always great!
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