Ephesians 5:1 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.

NIV: Follow God's example, therefore, as dearly loved children

NASB: Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children;

CSB: Therefore, be imitators of God, as dearly loved children,

NLT: Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children.

KJV: Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;

NKJV: Therefore be imitators of God as dear children.

Chapter 5 covers two important themes: obedience to God in our lives, and the proper relationship between husbands and wives. This first section discusses how believers are to be imitators of God, with a particular focus on the love of Christ (Ephesians 5:1–21). Our practical goals are summed up with the word "imitators." Paul uses a commanding tone here: the phrase "be imitators" is an imperative. Paul commands those who follow God to imitate Him. This means striving to do as He would do.

Paul also explains the mindset which ought to motivate Christians towards obedience. Believers in Christ enjoy a Father–child relationship with God. A child naturally seeks to copy what he or she sees in a loving father. Believers in Jesus are to likewise copy what they learn about God. Paul frequently mentions children in this letter (Ephesians 2:3; 4:14; 5:8). Though most of these mentions are simply illustrations, this may suggest that the Ephesian church had an abundance of young people and parents, an area Paul addresses in Ephesians 6:1.

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.

Accessed 5/5/2024 11:51:51 AM