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Overview of Ephesians 5:1-2
Be Imitators of God: In light of Ephesians 4:17-32, which describes the new life in Christ, Paul exhorts believers to imitate God. This is foundational, setting the stage for the rest of the chapter.
Walk in Love: As Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us, we are to walk in love, which is described as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
Paul's Specific Declarations at the Beginning of Chapter 5
Be imitators of God.
As beloved children.
Walk in love.
As Christ loved us and gave himself up for us.
This act is a fragrant offering and a sacrifice to God.
The Reason for These Instructions
Paul is preparing the believers for challenging truths ahead, establishing a strong foundation in verses 1-2 to empower them to confront the battles in verses 3-13.
Transition to Addressing Sin in Eph. 5:3-7
Call to Holiness: Verses 3-4 introduce a shift, warning against sexual immorality, impurity, covetousness, filthiness, foolish talk, and crude joking, and instead advocating for thanksgiving.
The Heart's Condition: Luke 6:45 is cited to emphasize that our speech and actions reflect the condition of our heart.
Hard Words from Paul: Eph. 5:5-6
Consequences of Sin: Paul is unequivocal about the eternal consequences of engaging in sins like sexual immorality and idolatry, stating that such behaviors exclude one from the kingdom of Christ and God.
Sexual Immorality and Idolatry Explained: Definitions and examples of sexual immorality (Greek word "porneia") and covetousness as idolatry are provided.
Comparison with Galatians 5:19-21
Similar Warnings: Paul lists behaviors that are contrary to inheriting the kingdom of God, emphasizing that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom.
The Hope for Believers
Confession and Repentance: The importance of confessing sins, acknowledging the role of the Holy Spirit, recognizing Christ's sacrifice, and daily seeking forgiveness.
Fighting Sin: Strategies include resisting temptation, renewing one's mind, not isolating oneself, and relying on the Holy Spirit.
Paul's Final Wake-Up Call: Eph. 5:14
Spiritual Awakening: A call to awaken from spiritual complacency, promising that Christ will illuminate those who rise from spiritual death.
The Deception of Unexposed Sin: A warning that thinking one's sin is hidden does not equate to being right with God, urging believers to "wake up" to the reality of their spiritual condition.
Antidote to Spiritual Sleep: Deuteronomy 6:4-9
Encouragement to constantly remember and keep God's commandments in sight, as a means to prevent spiritual slumber and ensure a vibrant faith.
