Ephesians 4:27 - Printer Friendly

ESV: and give no opportunity to the devil.

NIV: and do not give the devil a foothold.

NASB: and do not give the devil an opportunity.

CSB: and don’t give the devil an opportunity.

NLT: for anger gives a foothold to the devil.

KJV: Neither give place to the devil.

NKJV: nor give place to the devil.

Paul has just instructed Christians not to let anger sit unresolved. Being angry is not a sin, in and of itself, but it can open us to sin if we don't handle it in a spiritual way. Paul's warning here flows from anger, specifically, to the broader idea of not giving Satan any openings into our lives. The following verses will offer ways to apply this teaching specifically.

It is interesting that the one other mention of the devil in this letter is found in Ephesians 6:11. There, we will read, "Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil." The devil "schemes" or seeks to deceive (Ephesians 4:22). The believer must diligently work to keep the devil from having an opportunity or advantage.

The Greek word topon, translated "opportunity," can also refer to a "place," or "room." Believers should strive to keep Satan out of every aspect of our lives. Any "open space" for the Devil is too much open space. As believers, we're susceptible to the lie that we can grow in one spiritual area at a time, while letting others lie unattended. However, we must guard against any area of life that could be used to compromise our integrity and witness for Christ. "The devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8). We must constantly be on guard.

Ephesians 4:17–32 is a valuable, highly practical explanation of how to live out a Christian life. Paul notes the difference between a life wallowing under the power of sin, as opposed to a life thriving in the power of Christ. Christians are called on to ''put away'' the things which entangle unbelievers. This includes sins such as malice, slander, commotion, and bitterness. Instead, we should demonstrate a Christ-like attitude of love and forgiveness.

Truly understanding saving grace, as Paul explained in prior chapters, is the Christian's first motivation for living a godly life. Here, Paul encourages believers to live in way which honors that gift. All saved Christians are part of a single, unified family, part of the ''body'' of Christ. At the same time, different believers are given different talents. Some are called to positions of leadership and authority. All Christians should turn away from the ''old self'' we were prior to being saved. Paul's explanation of the ''new self'' includes some basic, practical steps.

The first half of Ephesians focuses mostly on doctrine, setting up ideas related to the Christian faith. The last half, beginning in chapter 4, puts those theories into practice. Paul begins by emphasizing the ultimate unity of all Christians, regardless of individual spiritual gifts. Paul also begins to explain how knowledge of the truths should translate into action. Chapters 4, 5, and 6 feature specific, real-world applications of Christianity to daily life.

Ephesians follows a theme common in Paul's writings: connecting theory with practice. In this book, however, he goes into greater depth before making the transition. As a letter meant to be read by more than just the believers at Ephesus, this is an important look at how Christian belief should translate into Christian action. The first three chapters lay out spiritual ideas, the last three chapters show how these truths should be applied in the life of a mature believer. Paul focuses heavily on love, the unity of the Christian church, and the incredible value of our salvation through Christ.