Here’s an inductive study of the book of Ephesians by Dwell teacher Jim Leffel. For an explanation of this approach to epistle study, click here.
Ephesians
Contents
Overview of Ephesians
Main reasons for the letter
Is there a statement of purpose for the letter? It is a letter of introduction for Tychicus, whom Paul is sending to Ephesus to update them on his imprisonment (6:21,22). Based on the specific instructions Paul gives to the Ephesians, we might see the reason for the letter along these lines: in chapters 1—3 the focus is on knowing (1:18; 2:11; 3:18); then the focus is on walking (5 times in the section from 4:1—6:9); and finally, be strong in the face of the devil’s attacks (6:10-17).
Can you tell from the tone what matters to the author? Thankful for the true believers (1:16). The tone of the letter is more theological than personal. Paul must have been concerned that the Ephesians were confused about the important issues the letter addresses. Yet at the same time, the letter begins with detailed praise, “blessed be…,” and he prays twice for this church, specifically that they would cultivate a deep personal knowledge of God (1:15-23; 3:14-21). See also Revelation 2:4.
Main themes
Words, phrases, or ideas repeated throughout the letter: Prayer (1:16,17; 1:18-23; 3:14-21; 6:18,19); “seated” / “sit”; walk (2:2; 2:10; 4:1; 4:17; 5:2; 5:8; 5:15); love; give; Spirit.
Practical issues or theological truths emphasized: Salvation in Christ (1:3-14; 1:19—2:9); unity of Gentiles and Jews in Christ (2:11—4:16); concern for household spirituality (5:1—6:9); spiritual opposition (1:21,22; 2:2; 6:11-16).
Flow of the letter
1:3—2:10 — Identity “in Christ.” “In” Christ, Him, the beloved…; sitting where He sits; what’s true of Christ is true of all “in Christ.”
2:11—3:20 — Corporate identity, Jews and Gentiles. “Therefore” (2:11) connecting 1:3—2:10; Jews and Gentiles reconciled in one body; the mystery of God’s plan including Gentiles.
4:1—5:21 — Life together, practical instruction in walking in community. “Therefore” (4:1) connecting 2:11—3:20; walking with Christ in community.
5:22—6:9 — Family relationships. “Be subject” connecting to 5:21; family in Christ in community: a picture of God’s love.
6:10-20 — The battle for the gospel—why it all matters so much.
Passage Breakdown
Ephesians 1:3-14 — Blessed!
Structure — what is the passage about?
Central Truth:
bless (eulegeo): to bestow with honor. He who is blessed gives blessing to those without honor. (See Isaiah 43:4)
Main Point
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord
Jesus Christ (1:3)
How the main point is supported:
Why is God blessed? Because He has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ (1:3)
How did God bless us?
He chose us before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless in Him because of his love (1:4)
He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, through the kind intention of His will (1:5)
He redeemed us through His blood, giving us forgiveness by his grace, given generously (1:7,8)
He revealed to us His will, which is summed up in Christ (1:9,10)
He gave us an inheritance (1:11,12)
He sealed us with the Holy Spirit, as a pledge of our inheritance (1:13,14)
Theology — what does the passage mean?
What does the paragraph say about God?
- He is the God of blessing
- He is the God who chooses and predestines us because of His love
- He is the God of our redemption, paid by His own blood
- He reveals His will
- He gives us an inheritance
- He seals us in Christ
What does the paragraph say about people?
We are the subjects of God’s amazing blessings! The human condition apart from him: orphaned, in bondage, and in ignorance.
What does the paragraph say about salvation or the Christian life?
This is one of the most concise statements about the meaning of salvation in the New Testament, centering on our identity “in Christ”:
- We have been made holy and blameless before God
- We have been made God’s adopted children
- We have been redeemed by the sacrifice of Christ
- We have received revelation from God
- We have an inheritance to come, which is sealed by the Spirit as God’s pledge to us
Application
How does this passage relate to non-Christians?
Non-Christians try to relate to God by appeasing Him through sacrifices or moral purity. But none of these things matter to God. The Bible’s message is not about what we do for God, but what He has done for us “in Christ.” The only important question is, “Am I in Christ?” You can resolve that question by following 1:13—listen to the message, believe, and God will seal you in Him.
How does this passage relate to you?
God is worthy of praise! This letter begins with an amazing outpouring of why God is to be praised. He has held back nothing (1:3), and the blessings He gives flow from his generous love (1:4), demonstrated in offering His own blood to purchase our redemption, adoption, and inheritance.
Reflection on grace: No matter my own failings, God has made me holy and blameless. I have nothing to prove before God. The Christian life is a response in joy, gratitude, and worship to the God who redeemed me.
Intimacy with God: I am His adopted child, with the pledge of inheritance.
How does this passage relate to the home churches?
We need to be a grace-based group, keeping God’s praise at the center.
Ephesians 1:15-23 — Lord, Open the Eyes of Our Hearts
Structure — what is the passage about?
Central Truth:
light shining in darkness (photizo): God allows us to know Him personally, in our hearts, giving us a spirit of wisdom, revelation, and knowledge.
Main Point
Paul’s prayer for an enlightened heart (1:18)
How the main point is supported:
Why? Because Paul knows of their faith in the Lord (1:15), he continues to pray for these Christians (1:16,17)—for a deeper, personal knowledge
How does God give a spirit of wisdom? By opening the eyes of our hearts (1:18)
Why? So that we would know:
The hope of His calling (1:18)
Riches of His inheritance in the true believers (1:18)
Surpassing greatness of His power toward us (1:19)
Demonstrated in raising Christ from the dead (1:20)
Demonstrated in glorifying Christ to God’s right hand, above all authority and power in this age and the age to come (1:21)
Placing all things in subjection to Him, who is the head of the church, His body (1:22,23)
Theology — what does the passage mean?
What does the paragraph say about God?
- The ability of God to speak to the heart of true believers
- In God is hope
- In the church is God’s inheritance
- The amazing power of God over all things, including death itself
- The supremacy of Christ over all powers
What does the paragraph say about people?
We have the ability to know God personally, from the heart. This knowledge is beyond understanding doctrine and speaks to a connection with God in which we experience his hope and glory, His power and authority.
What does the paragraph say about salvation or the Christian life?
God wants to fill our hearts with the assurance of who He is, what He has done for us, and how we are totally safe in Him through His resurrection and position of glory.
As the living head of the church (1:23), God will express His sovereign power through His body. That should bring us great comfort and confidence as we think about the mission to which He has called us.
Application
How does this passage relate to non-Christians?
God wants you to know Him personally. He wants you to experience His hope and glory. God demonstrated his wisdom and power in raising Christ from the dead. By doing this, all spiritual beings are totally subject to Him. Non-Christians are subject to spiritual powers that bring them to a life of fear and bondage. Christ has set us free! See Romans 10:9.
How does this passage relate to you?
As Christians we long not just to know about God, but to know Him in a deep and personal way. That is His will for us too: that the eyes of our hearts would be open to know Him as He is. Knowing the sovereign power of God over death, over all authority, Christians can live with the assurance that He will prevail, freeing us from worry. He will do all He wills.
How does this passage relate to the home churches?
Even as we face great obstacles, God is the sovereign head of the church. He will bring us to victory wherever He leads.
Ephesians 2:1-10 — Once Dead, Now Alive in Christ
Structure — what is the passage about?
Central Truth:
From dead to alive (zao) for good works (ergon): God gives spiritual life to the spiritually dead, not because of our good works, but so we can do the good works he prepared for us to do.
Main Point
God has made us alive together with Christ (2:5)
How the main point is supported:
Why? Because we were spiritually dead (2:1-3)
Walked according to the course of this world (2:2)
Manipulated by Satan (2:2)
Lived in the lusts of our flesh (2:3)
Why? Because of his great love and mercy (2:4)
Why? So he could show his grace in the ages to come (2:7)
How? By grace, through faith (2:8,9)
Why? So we can do the good works he prepared (2:10)
Theology — what does the passage mean?
What does the paragraph say about God? — note all the contrasts
- He is rich in mercy and loves us — vs. wrath
- Salvation is a gift of God, so no one can boast — vs. works
- He prepared good works for us to walk in — vs. lusts and disobedience
- He made us alive with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly places — vs. the course of this world (note also the past vs. present contrast throughout the paragraph)
What does the paragraph say about people?
All people enter the world spiritually dead and under judgment (“children of wrath”). Many factors contribute to our demise:
- Satan’s influence (prince of the power of the air)
- World system (the course of this world)
- Our own flesh (formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh)
What does the paragraph say about salvation or the Christian life?
Salvation takes people from spiritually dead to spiritually alive with Christ. We’re not saved by good works—there is nothing we can do to merit salvation. But we are saved for good works:
- God has specific tasks for all Christians to do
- These tasks are done as a result of our salvation, not the other way around
Application
How does this passage relate to non-Christians?
Non-Christians try to do good works to earn something from God. But they need to realize they are spiritually dead and their works can’t bring them life. Instead, God wants to bring them from dead to alive as a free gift, and then he gives them good works to do.
How does this passage relate to you?
I am now spiritually alive and can have victory over my flesh, the world, and Satan. I am seated with Christ in the heavenly places—I need to view myself that way. God has good works planned for me to walk in. I need to ask him each day how to walk in those works.
How does this passage relate to the home churches?
We hold forth the message of spiritual life to a world full of spiritually dead people. We must emphasize this is by grace, not good works. And then we teach people to walk in the good works God has prepared for them.
Ephesians 2:11-22 — Once Far Off, Now Brought Near in Christ
Structure — what is the passage about?
Central Truth:
Reconciliation (apokatallasso): God has brought Jews and Gentiles close to him through the blood of Christ alone. We all have equal standing in his church.
Main Point
Reconciliation: you who formerly were far off
have been brought near (2:13)
How the main point is supported:
Why? Because you were Gentiles—separate from God and separate from the Jewish people (2:11,12)
How we were brought near: By the blood of Christ (2:13-16)
He made both groups into one (2:14) and abolished the law through the cross (2:15,16)
Why? To give us peace with God (2:17)
Why? To change us from strangers to fellow citizens and members of God’s household (2:19)
Why? So he can build us together into a holy temple in the Lord (2:20-22)
Theology — what does the passage mean?
What does the paragraph say about God?
- God took the initiative to bring us into close relationship with him while we were far off.
- God is the one who gives us hope.
What does the paragraph say about people?
All people are far from God. The Jews were closer because God chose them and gave them the Scriptures, the Law, and the temple. But even they needed to be brought to God through the blood of Christ. Without God, people are without hope.
What does the paragraph say about salvation or the Christian life?
Plan of salvation: God chose the Jewish people to receive the Law and the temple. These were teaching tools—teaching his character, teaching what sin is, and teaching the need for separation. He set up his Law to show us our need for him and even designed the temple with a series of walls to communicate the separation necessary between God and man. But through Christ he did away with the law and took down all the walls between us and him.
Now he does away with ethnic distinctions. In Christ we are all one body, being fitted together into one building: God’s household, God’s temple—the church.
Application
How does this passage relate to non-Christians?
You can have hope through a relationship with God. The blood of Christ is the only way to bridge the separation you sense between you and him.
How does this passage relate to you?
You are now close to God even if you don’t feel close to him. Following the Law is not the way to get close to God. Many Christians view their relationship with God through the lens of how they are performing or how they feel. Instead, you need to realize he has brought you near through Christ. You are part of his body, his building, his temple. You need to view yourself that way and live it out. Look away from the Law to your new identity in Christ.
How does this passage relate to the home churches?
Our churches should be places of racial equality. We are all one in Christ.
Ephesians 3:1-13 — Mystery
Structure — what is the passage about?
Central Truth:
Mystery (musterion): something hidden or unclear that is made clear through God’s revelation.
Main Point
Mystery revealed (3:3,5)
How the main point is supported:
What mystery has God revealed? The inclusion of all people in God’s plan of salvation (3:6)
How has the mystery been revealed? Through human agency
Through apostles and prophets (3:3,5)
Through the Church (3:10)
Why has God revealed it? God’s desire to give grace
Revealed by grace (3:2,7,8)
To make his eternal plan of grace known (3:9,11)
To make God’s wisdom known (3:10)
Therefore we should not lose heart (3:13)
Theology — what does the passage mean?
What does the paragraph say about God?
- He is the God who speaks (3:3,5,9,10,11)
- He is the God of grace (3:2,6,7,8)
- He is the God of history (3:5,6,9,10,11)
- He is the God of all people (3:6)
- He is the God who works through people (3:2,5,7,8,10)
- He is the God who empowers people (3:7,12)
What does the paragraph say about people?
- We can know the mind of God (3:5,9)
- We are all included in his plan of salvation (3:6)
- We all can have a role in his great work (3:8,10)
- We all have reason for hope (3:11-13)
What does the paragraph say about salvation or the Christian life?
God’s plan of salvation has been clearly revealed and always included all people. At the center of the Christian life is our participation in God’s plan of salvation.
Application
How does this passage relate to non-Christians?
Non-Christians need to see that they are included in the plan of God and that He has been working to bring his salvation to them personally. Non-Christians also need to know that God has revealed this plan clearly, and they need to be shown it from the word of God.
How does this passage relate to you?
We have reason not to lose heart (3:13):
- God has spoken, and it changes everything
- We have great work to do
- We are called by grace
- We have full access to God and all the resources of heaven
God’s plan of salvation has been clearly revealed to us in his written word, so we should do the work to know what it is and what it is not.
How does this passage relate to the home churches?
Our home groups need to be communities where we live this out.
Ephesians 3:14-21 — Grasp the Extent of Your Love in Christ
Structure — what is the passage about?
Central Truth:
Love of God (agape): the unique love of God, most fully expressed in the death of Jesus.
Main Point
Prayer that we would know the love of Christ (3:14,19)
How the main point is supported:
Paul prays to the Father (3:14)
Who is the source and Lord of all life (3:15)
Who is more powerful than we imagine (3:16,20)
Paul asks God to strengthen us (3:16)
So that Christ would dwell in our hearts through faith (3:17)
And that we be rooted and grounded in love (3:17)
That we can know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge (3:19)
That we would know the full extent of God’s love (3:18)
That we would know this love together (3:18)
May God be glorified for all time (3:21)
Theology — what does the passage mean?
What does the paragraph say about God?
- He is the God who authored and sustains all life—the God of all people (3:15)
- He is the God of great power (3:20)
- He is the God of generosity (3:16)
- He is the personal God (3:17)
- He is the God of love (3:17,19)
What does the paragraph say about people?
- God’s love applies to all of us (3:15)
- We don’t naturally know God’s love
- God desires a personal relationship with each of us (3:17)
What does the paragraph say about salvation or the Christian life?
- The love of Christ is central to our maturity (3:18)
- The love of Christ is best understood in community (3:18)
- Love is the purpose of God’s power (3:16)
Application
How does this passage relate to non-Christians?
Non-Christians need to see that their deepest needs and longings can only be satisfied through Jesus; that real love is only possible through a relationship with God through Jesus; and that in us they can see living examples of people loved by God.
How does this passage relate to you?
I need to pray for people this way. I need God to work in my life so that I can know his love. I need love to reach real maturity in Christ. And I need to do this in community.
How does this passage relate to the home churches?
Understanding and experiencing the love of Christ is foundational to the health and success of our home groups. When we see problems in our groups, we need to ask if there is a problem with understanding the love of Christ.
Ephesians 4:1-6 — Preserve the Unity of the Spirit
Structure — what is the passage about?
Central Truth:
Unity (henotes): God has given all Christians unity in the body of Christ. Our job is to recognize that unity and to be diligent to preserve it.
Main Point
Be diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit (4:3)
How the main point is supported:
Why? Because God has given us so much in common: one body, Spirit, hope, Lord, faith, baptism, and God (4:4-6)
How? Cultivate humility, gentleness, patience, forbearance, and diligence (4:2,3)
Theology — what does the passage mean?
What does the paragraph say about God?
God is one and is the God over everything and everyone. God calls Christians and gives them unity (1 Corinthians 12:13; Romans 12:5). We are all baptized into one body and indwelt by His Holy Spirit.
What does the paragraph say about people?
The world is lonely and needs the unity that only God can give.
What does the paragraph say about salvation or the Christian life?
When we become Christians, God calls us his own and calls us to follow him. We need to walk in a manner worthy of that calling. A big part of the calling is the unity he gives us with each other. We can either break that unity or preserve it by how we act toward one another.
All Christians have the same Holy Spirit, the same God and Father, the same Lord; are part of the universal Body of Christ; believe in the same faith; and undergo the same baptism (water baptism, and also baptism into the Body of Christ). Other Christians might look different than me, but we have more in common than we have differences.
Application
How does this passage relate to non-Christians?
Non-Christians will be alone forever unless they put their faith in Christ and let God join them to the body of Christ.
How does this passage relate to you?
God isn’t asking us to create unity but to recognize the unity that he has already given us, and to cultivate unity-friendly attitudes to preserve it. Are you in conflict with a fellow believer? Remember, they are not the enemy. God has given you so much in common with them and is asking you to do your part to preserve that unity. Has God been speaking to me about my pride, my impatience, or my unforgiving spirit? Am I diligent in my efforts to get along with my brothers and sisters, or do I give up easily?
How does this passage relate to the home churches?
The people in our home churches need to work hard at unity. God’s concern here isn’t with how unified our home church is with another home church, but how people in my home church are loving each other. Do we believe that God has already made us one and given us so much in common? Are we acting toward each other with humility, patience, and gentleness?
Ephesians 4:7-16 — Christ Gives Gifts for the Growth of His Body
Structure — what is the passage about?
Central Truth:
Christ gives gifts for the growth of his body. By ascending into heaven and pouring out his Spirit, and by giving leaders to equip the saints, he builds his body toward maturity.
Main Point
God gives gifts for the growth of his body (4:11,12,16)
How the main point is supported:
How? By ascending into heaven and pouring out his Holy Spirit (4:8-10; cf. Acts 2:32,33)
How? By giving apostles, prophets, evangelists, and pastor-teachers to equip the believers to do the work of service (4:11,12)
How? By speaking the truth in love (4:15)
Theology — what does the passage mean?
What does the paragraph say about God?
He raised Jesus to heaven and gave him the Holy Spirit to pour out on Christians (cf. Acts 2:32,33). Unity is very important to him. These acts of service that Christians render each other are part of the works he prepared for us to do beforehand (cf. Ephesians 2:10), that we should walk in them (cf. 4:1).
What does the paragraph say about people?
We were lost without God, but Christ descended to earth, became a man, and died on the cross, and then God raised him to heaven. Anyone who receives Christ becomes a “saint” (4:12). God gives us the Holy Spirit and makes us part of his body. He gives us a purpose and a growth that comes from him.
What does the paragraph say about salvation or the Christian life?
God doesn’t intend Christian ministry to be done by only a few paid leaders. Leaders shouldn’t try to do it all themselves. Leaders in the church are supposed to equip the “saints” to do the work of the church. And as each part plays its role, the individual members of the body grow to maturity and the whole body grows as well.
Application
How does this passage relate to non-Christians?
Your life lacks purpose and you are still essentially alone. You need to receive Christ so he can make you part of his body and give you spiritual gifts and a role in his body.
How does this passage relate to you?
How am I playing my role in the body of Christ? Am I speaking the truth in love? Am I asking God for ways to serve my brothers and sisters? Am I growing in my knowledge of Christian doctrine so I can discern false teaching?
How does this passage relate to the home churches?
So many churches are organized according to the “clergy-laity” model, where the people show up each week to receive and the pastor shows up to give. Our home churches need to follow the “living body” model, where every member shows up looking to give, and where the leaders are equipping those members to play their role. We should work to give members of our home churches real responsibility and also make sure they have the help and coaching they need to do an excellent job with the ministry entrusted to them.
Ephesians 5:1-5 — Walk in Love
Structure — what is the passage about?
Central Truth:
“Walk” is a way of life (peripateo): 7 times in Ephesians Paul addresses the path of life God calls Christians to walk. 5:1-21 calls us to walk in love, as light, and in wisdom.
Main Point
The Christian’s call to walk in love (5:2)
How the main point is supported:
Why? We walk in love because God in Christ has forgiven us (see 4:32, connected to 5:1 by “therefore”)
How are we to walk in love? “As Christ loved you,” by “giving his life as a sacrifice to God” (5:2)
Negative examples—these things are not love:
Immorality or impurity (5:3)
Greed (5:3)
Offensive speech (5:4)—contrasted with “giving thanks” (5:4)
Why? Because no immoral, impure, covetous, or idolatrous person has an inheritance in God’s kingdom (5:5)
Theology — what does the passage mean?
What does the paragraph say about God?
The walk of love God calls us to is the path He showed in Christ—agape, God’s unique love (see 1 John 4:7-12, 19-21). God is both love and justice, who will hold the guilty responsible (Exodus 34:6,7).
Should Christians fear God’s judgment? Consider that our inheritance is a settled fact (1:11,13); that as new creations in Christ we are called to “lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted” and “put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of truth” (4:22-24); that we have a new identity in Christ (1 Corinthians 6:9-11); and consider 1 John 4:17,18.
What does the paragraph say about people?
People are the subjects of God’s great love. If we want to live God’s way, we need to first experience His love for us.
What does the paragraph say about salvation or the Christian life?
Christ’s new command (John 13:34,35; see also Luke 10:27): love, the core of the Christian way of living, is a response to God’s love. The focus of the Christian way of life is loving like God loves. If that is the focus and motivation, we will not choose sinful ways of life or relating to others. Love is the first indication of the Holy Spirit’s work in a Christian’s life (Galatians 5:22).
Application
How does this passage relate to non-Christians?
Non-Christians need to understand that God loves them and sacrificed His life for them. This is the gospel (John 3:16). Apart from personally receiving forgiveness in Christ (4:32), people are guilty before God and have no place in His kingdom (5:5).
How does this passage relate to you?
To walk in love, I recognize the need to be continually grateful for God’s merciful love for me. Am I growing in my capacity to love, and aware of the things in my character that prevent me from loving the way God calls me to love?
How does this passage relate to the home churches?
We must stress that while churches often focus on superficial signs of personal piety, the Bible focuses on active Christian love as the mark of true spirituality. What does the non-Christian world around us conclude about God from observing our way of living? (See John 17:23.)
Ephesians 5:6-14 — Walk as Light
Structure — what is the passage about?
Central Truth:
“Walk” is a way of life (peripateo): 7 times in Ephesians Paul addresses the path of life God calls Christians to walk. 5:1-21 calls us to walk in love, as light, and in wisdom.
Main Point
Walk as children of Light (5:8)
How the main point is supported:
Why are we to walk as Light? Because we are no longer darkness (5:8), but children of Light. A change of identity has occurred.
How are we to walk as light?
By learning what pleases the Lord—goodness, righteousness, truth (5:9,10)
By exposing unfruitful deeds of darkness (5:11)
Theology — what does the passage mean?
What does the paragraph say about God?
Light is a common biblical description of God. Christ calls Himself “the Light of the world” (John 8:12). The Messiah’s mission is described as a light shining in darkness (Isaiah 9:2; Matthew 4:16). This speaks to the Messiah’s role in both exposing human shame and in providing the light of truth from God. In the light is goodness, righteousness, and truth.
What does the paragraph say about people?
The world lives in darkness. This darkness is both ignorance, because we cannot see, and shame, because the deeds done in the cover of darkness would not be done in the light of day. Being a child of Light is the same thing as being a child of God (John 1:9-13). If we follow Christ, we will not live in darkness but have the Light of life (John 8:12).
What does the paragraph say about salvation or the Christian life?
5:14 (a paraphrase of Isaiah 26:19) is a call to non-Christians to respond to the gospel, to awaken from the sleep of the night’s darkness and come to the Light of life. What a beautiful description of conversion!
The Christian life is a life of living in the light: a commitment to truth, goodness, and righteousness, of pleasing God (5:8,10).
- We do not want to hide our sin, to keep living in darkness (see Psalm 32:3).
- To walk in the Light is to walk closely with Christ. He is our Light.
Application
How does this passage relate to non-Christians?
The gospel is an invitation to become children of God, children of Light. The human condition is darkness. That represents deep confusion as well as behaviors that make us ashamed—things we would never do “in the light of day.” The call in 5:14 is to respond to the gospel.
How does this passage relate to you?
To walk in the Light is to live a life that pleases the Lord (5:10). When I take my eyes off of myself and onto a genuine passion to please my Lord, then I feel a sense of delight in the Christian life. The reminder (5:8) that I was once in darkness also brings gratitude to my heart. I remember the shame and confusion of being lost. Also, in seeking God, I am called to the “light of truth,” His Word (see Psalm 119).
How does this passage relate to the home churches?
Our home churches must be truth-centered communities. That is how we walk in the Light together. An emphasis on Bible study keeps us on the path of following God. The result of this focus is lives transformed by the truth. Imagine, for instance, what a family would be like when it learns godly ways of love in marriage. So as we walk as light, the world looks on, seeing something good and pleasing about our lives. This illuminates the gospel message we speak. Our lives are living proof of the truth.
Ephesians 5:15-21 — Walk Wisely
Structure — what is the passage about?
Central Truth:
“Walk” is a way of life (peripateo): 7 times in Ephesians Paul addresses the path of life God calls Christians to walk. 5:1-21 calls us to walk in love, as light, and in wisdom.
Main Point
Walk as wise men (5:15)
How the main point is supported:
Why are we to walk as wise men?
To make the most of our time (5:16)
Because the days are evil (5:16)
To not be foolish, but discern the will of the Lord (5:17)
How are we to walk in wisdom?
Contrast: not getting drunk, but being filled with the Spirit (5:18)
By speaking to one another in psalms and hymns (5:19)
By always giving thanks for all things (5:20)
By being subject to one another (5:21)
Theology — what does the passage mean?
What does the paragraph say about God?
He is worthy of our gratitude, which the wise recognize (5:20). The Holy Spirit fills Christians. What is the difference between being indwelled by the Spirit and being filled by the Spirit? (5:18; see Romans 8:9). The Lord has a will for our lives (5:17).
What does the paragraph say about people?
This paragraph is a warning: “Be careful how you walk.” It is possible to reject God’s wisdom and live like a fool. It is possible for Christians to live a life of drunkenness rather than being filled with the Spirit. The days are evil, the pressures are great. You are free to foolishly walk onto a busy street, but you will regret it. The Bible has much to say about the wise man and the fool (Proverbs: the fool 94 times, the wise 113 times). These are very relevant and helpful descriptions.
What does the paragraph say about salvation or the Christian life?
This paragraph makes clear why Christians need wisdom and how to live wisely.
- Wisdom is a precious commodity in our evil days—but not merely so we can escape from evil, but so that we can live purposefully in our world. Making the most of our days (5:15) means that we are mindful of our calling to those lost in darkness. As we live wisely, we have something to offer those caught up in our dark and evil culture.
- Being full of the Spirit (5:18) empowers us to live for God: by speaking truth to one another, living a life of ongoing gratitude, and being subject to one another.
Application
How does this passage relate to non-Christians?
Everyone, whether Christian or not, is aware of how our days are evil, how broken things are. Christians need to connect with the despair of our times, speaking with wisdom and compassion and living a wise and victorious way.
How does this passage relate to you?
I need to be prayerful to see the opportunities each day God brings to me. As Psalm 5:3 says, “In the morning I will pray to you, then eagerly watch!” Growing in wisdom and filled by the Spirit, each of the three commands needs to be a commitment I make to my Christian friends:
- To speak the truth of God’s word (5:19; see also 4:15) to encourage them.
- To turn in gratitude to the Lord throughout the day, so that both my own heart and the effect I have on my friends draw us near to the heart of God.
- To make the choice to live life subject to others—seeking out their counsel, listening to what they have to say, working with a spirit of cooperation as we serve the Lord together.
How does this passage relate to the home churches?
We have a role together in making the wisdom of God known in this age of darkness and evil. We need God’s wisdom and the power of His Spirit to be the kind of community that will show the world God has a better way.
Ephesians 5:21-33 — Love and Respect in Marriage
Structure — what is the passage about?
Central Truth:
Love (agapao) and respect (phobeo): this is the longest passage in the New Testament on marriage. Paul connects marital love to the love of Christ for the church.
Main Point
Love your wife; respect your husband (5:33)
How the main point is supported:
Instruction to wives (5:21-24,33): be subject to your husbands
Why? Context: mutually submitted relationships (hupotasso, 5:21)
How? Wives placing themselves under their husbands (5:22,24)
Instructions to husbands (5:25-33): love your wives
Love (agape) your wives (5:25)
As Christ loved the church (5:25)—by sanctifying her (5:26) and presenting her holy and blameless (5:27)
So husbands should love their wives as they do their own bodies (5:28-30)
Why? The purpose of marriage is oneness (5:31; see Genesis 2:24)
Why? The mystery of oneness is Christ and the church (5:32)
Conclusion: husbands, love your wives; wives, respect your husbands (5:33)
Theology — what does the passage mean?
What does the paragraph say about God?
- Christ’s sacrificial and redemptive love for the church (5:25)
- Christ is the head of the church, which is His body (5:23)
- As members of His body, the church is one with Christ (5:32; see Revelation 19:7-9)
What does the paragraph say about people?
This paragraph addresses the meaning of marriage. Humans in the image of God are created male and female (Genesis 1:26,27) with the purpose of being one (Genesis 2:24). This is a reflection of the divine image. The vivid picture in Genesis 2:23 of woman coming from man’s body graphically shows the intimate bond marriage is meant to be. When Paul calls on husbands to love their wives as their own bodies, he is speaking not only about how husbands should act (5:28), but reminds us of the origin and purpose of marriage: we are, in fact, one flesh in marriage. How a husband treats his wife is therefore inseparable from his love for himself—neither life is separate from the other.
Because man and woman are equally image-bearers of God and are created to live interdependently, Paul calls husbands and wives to be subject and love God’s way.
What does the paragraph say about salvation or the Christian life?
The Christian life is lived out in Christ’s body, of which He is head. Marriage relationships are also connected to Christ’s body, the church. We are to be subject to one another in reverence for Christ (5:21), and from this context of mutually subject relationships, Paul talks about the marriage relationship. A married man is to love in the redemptive, selfless way Christ loves.
Application
How does this passage relate to non-Christians?
Marriage is a universal human institution. Every culture rests on the foundation of marriage and family. In no place is the broken and sinful heart of humanity more on display than in this relationship. Domineering husbands tend to view their wives not as a partner, but a servant. Wives often resent their husbands and, while perhaps outwardly obeying, are inwardly bitter. This great passage on marriage is an important part of effective Christian witness. Everyone wants marriage to work. But how? Loving God’s way paints a beautiful picture of the victory of grace and love over the stain and shame of sin.
How does this passage relate to you?
Paul makes clear that marriage has a purpose (5:25-27). Our love is to be “sanctifying,” just as Christ’s love. There are many people God brings into our lives to provide wisdom and guidance. But there is only one person to whom we say, “I do, till death do we part.” How we love each other in marriage will affect the spiritual development of our spouse. It means having a vision for each other and a commitment to being God’s primary instrument in our spouse’s life. Marriage in this sense is a very sobering responsibility, made more significant in light of the next paragraph addressing the parent-child relationship. In marriage we learn how to practice grace—to love imperfect people with all the dimensions of agape love. This is where our lives will begin to cultivate the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22,23) and we will be transformed.
How does this passage relate to the home churches?
In many cultures marriage is an entirely private relationship. People don’t talk about what is happening between husbands and wives. But this is a serious problem. We need the help of wise and caring Christians in our lives to be the kind of spouses God calls us to be. We need to learn how to “be subject to one another” (5:21) in our marriages. Do you have a trusted friend in your home church with whom you talk openly about your marriage? Do you seek advice and prayer?
Ephesians 6:1-4 — Godly Parenting
Structure — what is the passage about?
Central Truth:
humble obedience (hupakouo, to listen, to heed) and loving discipline (paedeia): the parent/child relationship sets the foundation and prepares a person for life. It is the most important relationship except marriage.
Main Point
Effective parenting—discipline (6:4);
blessed child—obey (6:1)
How the main point is supported:
How? A child is “blessed” (6:2,3) through obeying parents “in the Lord”
Why? Obeying godly parents is God’s provision for being “well” and “living long”—terms of blessing in life (6:3)
How? A father effectively parents through “the discipline and instruction of the Lord” (6:4)
Theology — what does the passage mean?
What does the paragraph say about God?
God established the parent/child relationship as a source of blessing (6:2,3). Discipline and instruction are aspects of God’s love (see Hebrews 12:4-11). The theme in the New Testament of God as our Father is a powerful one. It shows the depth and type of love God has for his children. This is a theme well worth reflecting on (see Matthew 6, the eleven times Jesus calls God our “Father”).
What does the paragraph say about people?
God’s blessing for our lives will come to us through the discipline of loving parents. Left on their own, children will not cultivate the inner life that leads to blessing. Instead, the undisciplined (unloved) child will not find mastery over impulses of every kind and selfishness—instead, they will be ruined by them later in life.
This paragraph also makes clear that God has a crucial role for parents to play in shaping their children. That is why Paul mentions “parents in the Lord.” There is also a bit of a warning here that improper, ungodly discipline can “provoke” children (see Colossians 3:21—a warning not to exasperate your children so they do not lose heart).
What does the paragraph say about salvation or the Christian life?
Godly family is a crucial part of the Christian life.
Application
How does this passage relate to non-Christians?
Many non-Christians are confused about how to be good parents. Some indulge their children rather than discipline them; others, on the extreme, can be too controlling rather than disciplining for their good. But struggling as a parent provides a real opportunity for Christian witness. Most parents want and need help.
How does this passage relate to you?
Our children are our closest, most long-term, and important disciples. Sometimes Christians come from homes that did not practice godly discipline and instruction. This can be a real disadvantage both in terms of character development and in how they view God. The analogy with our earthly fathers can be painful and confusing. Rethinking God from the perspective of his fatherly love is very important. When children struggle in life or with their faith, it is very painful. This is, again, where being a vital part of the Christian community comes in. It is so helpful to have wise Christian friends who understand the struggles and can provide godly wisdom and encouragement.
How does this passage relate to the home churches?
Every parent needs encouragement. The job of being a parent is often confusing and stressful. It’s very important to have open conversation among trusted friends about being a good parent. I have found that establishing relationships with my children’s friends and their parents is an important way to bring other families into the church.
Ephesians 6:5-9 — Respecting Authority
Structure — what is the passage about?
Central Truth:
sincere obedience: hupakouo (to listen, to heed) and haplotes (with simplicity and generosity). Even in the unjust circumstance of the slave/master relationship, we are able to be pleasing to the Lord.
Main Point
Godly obedience to authority is serving the Lord (6:7,8)
How the main point is supported:
How? Slaves: obey from the heart (6:5)
With a heart attitude of sincerity (6:5,6)
And reverence (6:5)
As though serving Christ (6:5,6)
How? With good will, serving as unto the Lord, whether slave or free (6:7,8)
Why? Because the Lord will reward our service (6:8)
How? As a master, do good to your slaves (6:9)
Why? Because you too have a Master in heaven (6:9)
Theology — what does the passage mean?
What does the paragraph say about God?
Everyone, whether slave or free, has a Master in heaven (6:8,9). Jesus is our Lord (105 times in the New Testament). How we treat others, regardless of our position in life, matters to God. Crucially, the Bible teaches the equality of all people before God and within the community of faith (Galatians 3:28; Colossians 3:10,11).
What does the paragraph say about people?
Slavery is a terrible institution! To the slave, Paul says, “if you are able to get your freedom, do that” (1 Corinthians 7:21). To the slave owner, Paul is clear: “I have confidence in the Lord to order you to do what is proper, yet for love’s sake I appeal to you…for my child Onesimus…receive him no longer as a slave, but more than a slave, as a beloved brother” (Philemon 8,9,10,16).
What does the paragraph say about salvation or the Christian life?
This paragraph applies the principle that we are all servants of the Lord. Paul refers to himself as “the Lord’s bond-servant,” an indentured slave (see Romans 1:1; Galatians 1:10; Philippians 1:1; Titus 1:1), as did James (James 1:1), Peter (2 Peter 1:1), Jude (Jude 1:1), and John (Revelation 1:1). We all must serve a master. What is revolutionary about the New Testament church is that slaves and masters are to relate to one another as brothers in Christ. This presumes that the equality of all people before God should become a social reality in which all people are equal before one another.
Application
How does this passage relate to non-Christians?
The voice of the oppressed crying out to God has His attention (Exodus 2:23-25). Our world is broken, and men treat each other based on power. But God is on the side of the oppressed (see Deuteronomy 6:21). Slavery is a condition beyond human ownership of another person. It also relates to the condition of the heart. Anyone apart from the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit is a slave—a slave to sin (Romans 6:16-19). It is only through the purchase of our freedom in the cross of Christ that we are released from the penalty and power of sin.
How does this passage relate to you?
It is very important that we understand we are bond-servants of Christ. Our lives are not our own; we have been bought with a price (1 Corinthians 6:20). And for this reason, our lives are not our own, but the Lord’s. How do we treat people, regardless of their station in life? Being under authority is God’s will. Even when that human authority is sinful, we are still called to obey from the heart, to be a blessing to those under whose authority we serve. This does not mean, of course, unquestioned obedience. There may be times when we are called to obey God over men (Acts 5:29).
How does this passage relate to the home churches?
In the church we are all of equal dignity and should be treated that way. Indeed, God gives preference in the church to those who are not esteemed (1 Corinthians 12:22,23). We must also recognize the authority of others as we are “subject to one another” (Ephesians 5:21).
Ephesians 6:10-17 — Be Strong in the Lord’s Battle
Structure — what is the passage about?
Central Truth:
Strength in the Lord for spiritual struggle: spiritual battle is a major theme of Ephesians. Christians must learn to be “strong in the Lord,” to “take up the full armor of God,” and to “stand firm” against the enemy.
Main Point
Be strong (6:10)
How the main point is supported:
How? In the Lord and in the Lord’s strength (6:10)
How? By putting on the full armor of God (6:11,13)
Why? Because our struggle is not against people, but the powers, world forces of darkness, the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places (6:12)
Why? So you will be able to resist in the evil day (6:13)
How? By standing firm with the weapons God provides (6:14):
The belt of truth (6:14)
The breastplate of righteousness (6:14)
The shoes of the gospel (6:15)
The shield of faith to extinguish Satan’s flaming arrows (6:16)
The helmet of salvation (6:17)
The sword of the Spirit, which is God’s word (6:17)
Theology — what does the passage mean?
What does the paragraph say about God?
The battle is the Lord’s, and we must fight with his strength.
- The creation is divided spiritually by a powerful adversary (see Ezekiel 28:11-19)
- Satan is an adversary looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8)
- The world is Satan’s temporary domain (1 John 5:19)
- But: “greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4)
- The battle will be won!
What does the paragraph say about people?
Fallen humans are at the center of the spiritual battle—worshipping the creation rather than the Creator (Romans 1:18-25). Traditional African (Asian, American) religion is animism.
How spiritism thrives: a discussion. What are the major falsehoods of animism/spiritism? What are the main sources of fear in animism/spiritism?
What does the paragraph say about salvation or the Christian life?
We should always be mindful of the spiritual condition of our non-Christian friends. How might they be oppressed? How should we pray for them?
Be strong, stand firm, put on God’s armor—confidence in battle:
- The belt of truth (6:14): truth nurtures and strengthens the soul (1 Peter 2:2)
- The breastplate of righteousness (6:14): God’s righteousness by faith in the gospel alone covers the heart from accusation (Revelation 12:10)
- The shoes of the gospel (6:15): stand your ground (Romans 1:16)
- The shield of faith to extinguish Satan’s flaming arrows (6:16)
- The helmet of salvation (6:17): nothing can land a fatal blow—“nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ” (Romans 8:35-39)
- The sword of the Spirit, which is God’s word (6:17): the word of God disarms Satan’s lies (2 Corinthians 10:3-5)
Application
How does this passage relate to non-Christians?
Non-Christians are governed by deceitful spirits in this world (1 John 2:15-17). Only the gospel can set them free.
How does this passage relate to you?
Where are the battle lines drawn in your life? Where might you be vulnerable to the schemes of the devil? Are you equipped for the fight?
How does this passage relate to the home churches?
We have been given all the resources we need to fight this battle. It’s easy to get side-tracked into things that will not advance the spiritual battle. Falsehoods are also found in the Christian community and must be fought with the light of the truth. Do our home church members know how to clearly present the gospel to their family and friends?
Ephesians 6:18-20 — The Ministry of Prayer
Structure — what is the passage about?
Central Truth:
prayer, petition, and proclamation: Paul ends his letter with an emphasis seen throughout—the central role of prayer in the Christian life and ministry. Five times in three verses, Paul describes the ministry of prayer.
Main Point
Pray at all times (6:18)
How the main point is supported:
How? In the Spirit (6:18)
How? With alertness and perseverance (6:18)
Who? For all the saints; for Paul (6:18,19)
Why? Boldness in proclaiming the gospel (6:19,20)
Theology — what does the passage mean?
What does the paragraph say about God?
The Holy Spirit is in our prayer (6:18). To pray “in the Spirit” is to pray under the Spirit’s leading and illumination. The Spirit is an intercessor between God and His people (Romans 8:26,27).
To “petition” the Lord is to appeal to Him on behalf of another. God is the Sovereign Lord and ultimate authority of the universe. He alone has the right and authority to grant our requests. So while we approach Him with great humility, we are also called to address Him as our Heavenly Father (Matthew 6:9). Prayer moves the heart of God and strengthens the capacity for Christians to speak boldly as they should.
Paul is motivated to prayer because there is amazing news—the gospel! This is the mystery, God’s secret plan for all humanity now revealed in Christian proclamation.
What does the paragraph say about people?
People are in need of a bold proclamation of the gospel. This paragraph affirms what the scriptures teach, that humans are alienated from their Creator and stand under the judgment of the Sovereign Lord. But God, rich in mercy, has provided the only way to escape certain condemnation: Jesus Christ! (see Ephesians 2:8,9). This paragraph also affirms that God has given access to Him through His Spirit.
What does the paragraph say about salvation or the Christian life?
The work of prayer is central to the Christian life. This paragraph identifies important aspects of an effective prayer life:
Petition: We are called by God to pray for others, to intercede. We pray for non-Christians, that God would open their hearts to the gospel, and for the effective Christian witness of God’s people.
In the Spirit: Prayer is not mechanical repetition or formula. It is not like the superstitious prayers of the pagans who think they can control the spirits by their prayers and offerings. Christian prayer is totally different. It is the humble request of the undeserving, approaching the Sovereign Lord, on the basis of His grace, to ask Him to act. As we open our hearts and minds to Him, the Spirit brings to us the concerns to place before the throne of God.
Alert: Effective prayer requires regular times free of distraction where we can sense the presence and leading of God as He places burdens on our heart for the purpose of prayer. Distraction is always a challenge to prayer for busy people living in a distraction-filled world. Jesus frequently found quiet places and moments for prayer. So too should we.
Perseverance: Along with alertness, the other aspect of a disciplined, effective prayer life is the ability to continue in prayer for extended periods of time. Perseverance means not giving up (Luke 18:1-8). We persevere in prayer not because God does not hear us, but because through long seasons of prayer, God prepares our hearts and minds in relation to those things we are praying about. As we intercede for others, God gives us both insight into how to reach them and the compassion and sensitivity necessary to be an effective witness.
Application
How does this passage relate to non-Christians?
God is pursuing non-Christians through the prayers and witness of the church.
How does this passage relate to you?
A renewed commitment to intercessory prayer: remember our challenge—pray daily for five non-Christians you know and share Christ with one of them each week. That is how the church grows!
How does this passage relate to the home churches?
Home churches can be powerful communities of prayer. Seeing God answer our prayers strengthens the church, building a growing confidence that God is with us and intends to use us for His work in the world.