Ephesians 5:2 - Printer Friendly

ESV: And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

NIV: and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

NASB: and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.

CSB: and walk in love, as Christ also loved us and gave himself for us, a sacrificial and fragrant offering to God.

NLT: Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.

KJV: And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.

NKJV: And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.

In addition to imitating God (Ephesians 5:1), believers are to continually act out of love. The phrase translated "walk in love" is used only here in Scripture. The Greek expression peropateite en agape refers to "continuing in selfless love." The theme of "walking" refers to a consistent, purposeful practice. This is a common topic in Ephesians (Ephesians 2:2, 10; 4:1, 17; 5:8, 15). Believers are told, "Look carefully then how you walk" (Ephesians 5:15). The example for how to walk—how to live as a matter of habit—is Christ.

The description of Christ in this verse revolves around four themes. First is Christ's love for mankind. Second is Christ's sacrifice, made on our behalf. Third, this sacrifice is described as "a fragrant offering." This refers to the idea of a sweet-smelling offering in the tabernacle or temple. Fourth, Jesus gave His life for us, as a sacrifice to God, both for our good and as an act of worship to the Father. The book of Hebrews develops this theme in greater detail, showing that Christ offered a once-for-all sacrifice. As a result, believers in Jesus are no longer bound by the sacrifices of the Jewish law (the Torah), but are instead bound to Christ.

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.

Chapter 5 continues the very practical second half of the book of Ephesians. Chapter 4 encouraged Christians not to live as unbelievers do, but worthy of the gift we have been given. Chapter 5 gives even more direct application of these principles. Paul details impure attitudes and habits which Christians ought to put aside. He then details the proper approach to marriage, rooted in a Christian understanding of the gospel. This style of advice will continue through chapter 6. Paul's advice will culminate in a famous analogy about applying Christian principles to all of life, using the symbolism of a suit of armor.

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.