Ephesians 5:18 - Printer Friendly

ESV: And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,

NIV: Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit,

NASB: And do not get drunk with wine, in which there is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,

CSB: And don't get drunk with wine, which leads to reckless living, but be filled by the Spirit:

NLT: Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit,

KJV: And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

NKJV: And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit,

Whether drunkenness was a particular problem at Ephesus or not, we can't tell from this verse. Paul does feel led to warn against being controlled by alcohol. The word translated "debauchery" doesn't merely refer to alcoholism as some might think. Rather, it is a broad term associated with a wasted, unproductive life. Paul's concern was that those who get drunk are not making the most of every opportunity (Ephesians 5:16) and are making unwise decisions (Ephesians 5:15). Worse, drunkenness makes one's decision-making that much poorer—a self-aggravating condition.

In the common debate over the role of alcohol in a Christian's life, verses such as this are instructive. Paul does not insist that his readers abstain from all alcohol. Had that been his intent, he could have easily said so, and presumably would have. In this circumstance, he simply commands them not to become inebriated. However, his intent is not merely a reference to alcohol. Anything which has the power to control, harm, or hurt a Christian needs to be handled with extreme care.

Paul's positive alternative to being drunk is to "be filled with the Spirit." Just as drinking a great deal can cause a person to be controlled by wine, focusing on the Spirit can cause a person to be filled or controlled by the Spirit. However, this control or filling is not being "out of control" in the sense of some highly charismatic display of emotion. The following verses speak instead of sharing psalms, singing, being thankful, and submitting to one another. Being controlled by the Spirit is living in a manner worthy of God's calling.

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.