What does Ephesians 5:15 mean?
This verse begins with the Greek preposition ouv, translated "therefore," to signal a transition to a new section or summary. Paul once again returns to the theme of "walking," which means abiding or remaining in Jesus (Ephesians 2:2, 10; 4:1, 17; 5:2, 8). Used six other times in this letter, "walking" refers to how one lives. We are to walk as children of light (Ephesians 5:8), in a manner worthy of the calling (Ephesians 4:1), not like unbelievers do (Ephesians 4:17).Looking carefully at our spiritual walk is considered "wise." This wisdom comes from God (Ephesians 1:8), who gives believers the Spirit of wisdom (Ephesians 1:17). God gives wisdom to the church, making it known to others (Ephesians 3:10). Here again, Paul desires believers to grow in maturity. Evangelism is important, but so is the spiritual growth of existing believers. Paul focuses much attention on the spiritual growth of existing believers in the church. Their maturity is important for reaching additional people for Christ. Their example was the method of evangelism.
Ephesians 5:1–21 continues Paul's invaluable instructions on how Christians should live out their faith. Rather than imitating the world, or being controlled by worldly things, Christians are to be filled with the Spirit. Specific flaws such as sexual immorality, crude speech, and wasting of time are discouraged. Instead, believers ought to submit to one another out of respect for Christ, providing a powerful witness to the world.
Chapter 5 begins with an admonition to imitate Christ. In order to do so, Christians must avoid sexual immorality, vulgar language, foolishness, and other inappropriate attitudes. Paul warns that those who persist in these behaviors are not part of the kingdom of God. The passage then transitions to an explanation of mutual submission, including that between husbands and wives. Wives are to submit to their husbands, and respect them. Husbands are to love their wives in a Christ-like, sacrificial, and humble way.
