Ephesians 5:15 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise,

NIV: Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise,

NASB: So then, be careful how you walk, not as unwise people but as wise,

CSB: Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk--not as unwise people but as wise--

NLT: So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise.

KJV: See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,

NKJV: See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise,

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.

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 4/29/2024 2:32:33 AM