Exploring the Scripture
Today, our scripture text focuses on the practicalities of living as one within the Body of Christ by addressing specific behaviors that divide people. The author urges Christians to put away the former way of life before baptism and be renewed in spirit (vv. 22–23). When converted from old ways to become a new creation in Christ, disciples die to the habits that once ruled their lives. They come up from the water with new expectations and behaviors to help build and uphold the community.
Our opening verse begins with putting away lies and speaking truth to one another in love (see v. 15), because we belong to one another as a family. Anger occurs but must not divide people. Reconcile your anger before sunset (the beginning of a new day), so it doesn’t fester and cause you to sin. Unresolved anger takes on a life of its own, growing larger as we rehearse and nourish our grievances.
Thieves are commanded to repent, find honest work, and then give generously of their wages to the needy. Thieves must join others in the community in providing for the less fortunate. Christians are to speak graciously to one another, with the intent of helping one another grow, mature, and develop in faith. This challenge goes beyond avoiding anger and speaking honestly, challenging disciples to make their speech count to encourage and strengthen the Body.
“Do not grieve the Holy Spirit…” (v. 30). Baptism opened the door for the gift of the Holy Spirit, set like a “seal” on the promises represented in the baptismal covenant (v. 30). The “seal” of the Holy Spirit also functioned like branding slaves—receiving the Holy Spirit was the mark of becoming Christ’s follower, of belonging to the Risen Lord. Converts cannot return to the old ways. The Spirit renews our hearts, guides our choices, and calls us into dedicated service modeled on Jesus’ ministry.
Christians are called to renounce bitterness, wrath, anger, wrangling, slander, and malice, to live together in kindness, forgiving one another as Christ forgave. As part of the Body of Christ, we give up selfishness and petty concerns to deepen and keep unity with others.
The first two verses of chapter 5 summarize the instructions given in chapter 4. As children of God, disciples are called to mimic God as one would mimic the behavior of a beloved head of household. What does it mean to mimic God? Christians proclaim God is love, so mimicking God means living out to the best of our human ability the unconditional mercy, kindness, and love of God. It is the love that wants the best for the beloved, no strings attached.
Where there is love, there is a desire to put away those things that irritate or grieve the beloved. Using Christ as the model for loving actions, thoughts, words, and intents brings about the transformation of the individual and the community of believers. Each day, we grow more like the One we worship and copy. In the process, the community of believers grows closer to taking on the identity of the kingdom of God.
Project Zion Podcast
Hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith consider how this week's scripture connects to our lives today.
Central Ideas
- Ephesians urges Christians to avoid lying, thieving, malice, and destructive behaviors, because they damage the unity and growth of the Body.
- Anger is natural. But we must face and work through our anger quickly to avoid deep rifts and grievances within the community.
- We are challenged to mimic God as if God were the head of our family, whom we choose to copy.
- Transformation of the Christian community into the kingdom of God begins with the personal choices and loving care of faith-filled individuals.
Questions to Consider
- Which of the negative behaviors mentioned in this scripture passage is hardest for you to overcome? Why? What can you do to change that?
- When have you dealt quickly and successfully with your anger? When have you helped another do so?
- How do you “mimic God?” How does your congregation, as a community, mimic God?
- How have personal choices made by your congregants contributed to the continuing work, maturation, and growth of your congregation?