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A Model for the Believers (1 Thessalonians 1:7-10)
Whether we realize it or not, people are watching us. What we do and how we live our lives has an influence on others. Our example can either draw them closer to God or turn them away from Him. In spite of severe suffering and persecution, some of those living in the city of Thessalonica became followers of Christ. Their belief had far-reaching consequences. The Apostle Paul writes in chapter 1, verses 7 through 10 of his first inspired letter, “so that you became an example to all who believe in Macedonia and in Achaia. For from you the word of the Lord has been declared, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith toward God has gone out; so that we need not to say anything. For they themselves report concerning us what kind of a reception we had from you; and how you turned to God from idols, to serve a living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who delivers us from the wrath to come.”
One way in which the followers of Christ at Thessalonica became an example is that they declared the “word of the Lord”. Or, as the NIV translations puts it, the “Lord’s message rang out” from them. The followers of Christ are sometimes hesitant or reluctant to share their faith with others. Perhaps they are afraid of ridicule. Perhaps they are afraid of persecution. In many parts of the world, it is dangerous to follow Jesus or to proclaim faith in Him. But this did not deter the people at Thessalonica. They accepted Christ and proclaimed His message in spite of severe suffering. Would that every person who truly follows Christ had their courage and boldness! Because of it, their faith became known, not only where they were living, but everywhere.
It is also important to notice that the people at Thessalonica did not exalt themselves. The message they proclaimed was not about their own goodness or greatness. On the contrary, it was the Lord’s message which rang out from them. When the gospel is preached, it is essential that glory be given to God and not man.
Another way in which these people are an example, is their response to Paul. They welcomed both him and the message which he preached. It is one thing to believe something intellectually. It is a very different matter to act on what we say we believe. These people proved that their faith was genuine by changing the way the they were living. The change was so drastic and dramatic that Paul was left in no doubt by the reports which reached him. The results of their faith were plainly evident to all who knew them.
What was it they did? First of all, they turned from idols. This was not something which merely happened or something which they were forced to do. The word Paul uses indicates a drastic change based on a deliberate choice. This is important. Many have the idea that since they were born into a Christian family they, too, belong to Christ. This is not so. No one becomes a Christian by default. The only people who can claim His name are the ones who deliberately choose to follow Him.
It is not enough to turn away from what is wrong. We must also choose to do what is right. Jesus taught, “The unclean spirit, when he has gone out of the man, passes through dry places, seeking rest, and finding none, he says, ‘I will turn back to my house from which I came out.’ When he returns, he finds it swept and put in order. Then he goes, and takes seven other spirits more evil than himself, and they enter in and dwell there. The last state of that man becomes worse than the first.” (Luke 11:24-26)
The people at Thessalonica not only turned away from idols, they turned to God. They not only turned to God, they determined to serve Him. Many people turn to God in order to obtain some blessing or benefit. But God is not a machine which we can manipulate to grant our wishes. We must not come to Him in order to get want we want, but to serve.
It is important not only to serve God, but to know who it is that we are serving. There are many false gods and many false ideas about God. The people at Thessalonica turned to the living God. He is able to act on our behalf. He is not inert or indifferent, but loves and cares for us. God is also true. This not only means that He is genuine, but that there is no falsehood in Him. Since this is so, if someone lies to us in God’s name, we know that his message is not from God.
The people at Thessalonica also recognized that serving God includes accepting what God has said about Jesus Christ. This involves several things. Paul writes that they were waiting for God’s Son from heaven. This concept is a stumbling-block for many. How can Jesus be God’s Son? There are several reasons He is called God’s Son. One of them is that He had no earthly father. He was born of a virgin. Another reason is that Jesus discloses God to us perfectly. Scripture says, “His Son is the radiance of his glory, the very image of his substance…” (Hebrews 1:3) To wait for Jesus acknowledges that He is coming back to this earth. The fact that He is in heaven means that He is with God and will come from God when He returns.
Another thing which is involved in turning to and serving God is accepting that He raised Jesus from the dead. Because God raised Jesus, we can live in hope, knowing that God will also raise all those who die while serving Him. The followers of Christ at Thessalonica did not have a clear understanding of all this, and Paul addresses their lack of knowledge later in this letter. They are to be commended, however, for believing what they did understand. They did not let their lack of knowledge become an excuse for not believing.
They also accepted the fact that it is Jesus who saves. All of us face God’s judgment for the sins we have committed. It is only those who turn to God and serve Him by accepting Christ who will be spared from God’s wrath. As Scripture says, “There is salvation in none other, for neither is there any other name under heaven, that is given among men, by which we must be saved!” (Acts 4:12)
Who, or what, are we trusting in to save us from God’s judgment? Have we turned away from our idols and turned to God like the people at Thessolonica did? Have we put our faith in Jesus as they did?
Power of the Gospel (1 Thessalonians 1:2-6)
The reason we do something is as important as what we do. It is entirely possible to do the right thing for the wrong reason. In speaking of the judgment, Jesus said, “Many will tell me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, didn’t we prophesy in your name, in your name cast out demons, and in your name do many mighty works?’ Then I will tell them, ‘I never knew you. Depart from me, you who work iniquity.’” (Matthew 7:22-23)
In contrast to this, the Apostle Paul writes in chapter 1, verses 2 and 3 of his first inspired letter to the church at Thessalonica, “We always give thanks to God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers, remembering without ceasing your work of faith and labor of love and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, before our God and Father.”
Paul had no hesitation in thanking God for these people because they had the right motivation for the things they did. The first thing Paul mentions is their “work of faith”. There is a great difference between works done in order to gain salvation or God’s favor and work produced by faith. Many people do all kinds of righteous things hoping to make up for the sins they have committed and to earn a place in heaven. Scripture makes it plain, however, that this is impossible. We can never do more good than God expects of us in order to make up for the wrongs which we have done. The followers of Christ at Thessalonica were not doing good works in order to gain salvation. On the contrary, their good works were a natural outcome or expression of the saving faith which they already had. As James writes, “For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, even so faith apart from works is dead.” (James 2:26) Their works were evidence of their faith, not a substitute for it.
A second thing for which Paul thanked God was their “labor of love”. This refers to actions or deeds which are carried out from the desire to extend love to someone else. The followers of Christ wish to demonstrate the same kind of love to other people which God has shown to them. This may involve doing things which are even disagreeable or unpleasant in order to let someone know that God loves them. In this they follow the example of Christ. He said, “This is my commandment, that you love one another, even as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:12-13)
The followers of Christ at Thessalonica also had hope. Their hope gave them endurance. As we shall see, hope enables the followers of Christ to wait for Christ’s return, and sustains them during times of grief.
In judging the health and effectiveness of churches, people consider the size of the attendance, how large the budget is and how many activities there are. But spiritual health cannot be evaluated this way. Instead, the three qualities Paul mentions in regard to the church at Thessalonica, faith, hope, and love, are the key. If a church abounds in these, then it is a healthy and vibrant church, no matter how small and poor it may be. If it lacks these qualities, then it is a failure, regardless of how large or wealthy it is.
What is the basis of faith, hope and love? In verses 4 through 6 Paul continues, “We know, brothers loved by God, that you are chosen, and that our Good News came to you not in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit, and with much assurance. You know what kind of men we showed ourselves to be among you for your sake. You became imitators of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit,”
The followers of Christ at Thessalonica came to faith because they heard and believed the Good News (gospel). As it says in another place, “…faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (Romans 10:17) What is the gospel? Simply put, the gospel is the news, “…that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures,” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4)
The gospel is more than just words. The people at Thessalonica could see for themselves the assurance (NIV, “deep conviction”) of Paul and his companions. They were able to believe the gospel because they saw that those who preached it to them believed it. Once they believed, they knew they were chosen by God because they also experienced the joy that only comes from the Holy Spirit. They experienced the power of God which gives new life to a believer and enables him to turn from evil. As Scripture says, “But if the Spirit of him who raised up Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised up Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.” (Romans 8:11)
It is not enough to merely hear the gospel. Belief involves putting what is heard into practice. As Jesus said, “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and don’t do the things which I say?” (Luke 6:46) The believers at Thessalonica not only heard the gospel, they changed the way they lived. They saw the love of Christ in the lives of Paul and his companions. Because they saw the gospel being lived, they were able to model their own lives according to that example. When people look at us what kind of example do they see? If they were to imitate us, would they be living a joy-filled life? Conversely, what kind of example do we follow? Do we model our lives after those who show the love of Christ, or do we chase after the glamor of the world?
Living for Christ is not always easy. Jesus never promised that His followers would not experience hardship or pain. Paul writes that the believers at Thessalonica experienced “much affliction” (NIV, “severe suffering”). Notice, however, that suffering did not destroy their joy. Joy does not depend on circumstances. The reason is that joy comes from the Holy Spirit. When one yields his life to Christ, Christ grants him the indwelling gift of the Holy Spirit. One of the fruits of the Spirit is joy. If joy is lacking in our lives, we should ask ourselves whether Christ’s Spirit is at work in us.
Introduction and Greeting (1 Thessalonians 1:1)
In spite of strong opposition, Christianity grew rapidly. Starting from the city of Jerusalem, it soon spread throughout the Roman Empire. One of the men responsible for this rapid growth was the Apostle Paul. Paul was not always a follower of Jesus. On the contrary he was, at first, bitterly opposed to Christianity and did everything he could to destroy it. After Jesus appeared to him in a vision, however, Paul realized he was mistaken and became a follower of Christ. After his conversion he began to preach the faith he had once tried to destroy. Traveling from city to city, Paul proclaimed the good news that through Jesus Christ people could be forgiven of their sins and reconciled to God. He then organized the converts into congregations so that the believers could study God’s word and worship together and give one another support and encouragement. He also trained other men to provide leadership to the converts and to carry on the work of evangelism. Two of these men were Silvanus, more commonly known as Silas, and Timothy. After establishing a congregation in one place, Paul would move on to another city. He did not, however, abandon the congregations which he had previously begun. He not only visited them from time to time, but was also inspired by Christ to write them letters of encouragement and instruction. Two of these letters were written to the church at Thessalonica. At the time at which Paul wrote, this city, which was named after the half-sister of Alexander the Great, was about 300 years old and was the capital of the Roman province of Macedonia. The city is still in existence today, and is located in the country now known as Greece.
Paul’s efforts to evangelize the city of Thessalonica met with initial success. A large number of people were converted to Christ. In a short while, however, the Jewish residents of the city became jealous and started a riot in protest. In order to calm the situation down, the believers, some of whom the crowd had dragged before the authorities and had been forced to post bond, sent Paul and his companions to a neighboring city. Naturally, this chain of events caused Paul a great deal of distress and anxiety. Would the new believers, who had not had time to mature in their faith, be able to remain faithful in the face of the pressure which was being brought to bear upon them? How much of what they had been taught would they be able to remember?
Paul desperately wanted to return to complete the work which he had begun in Thessalonica, but was prevented from doing so. Finally, when it became clear that he would not be able to go personally, he sent Timothy to find out what the condition of the believers was. Were they still strong in their faith? Had they succumbed to the persecution which was directed against them? Timothy brought back a very encouraging report and the inspired letter which we know as 1st Thessalonians was written as a result. The letter begins with these words:
“Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, to the assembly [that is, the church] of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (1:1)
Humility is one of the characteristics of a truly great person of God. Though Paul had been personally selected by Christ as an Apostle, he was always willing to acknowledge the work of others. Though Paul is writing by to the Thessalonians by inspiration, he includes the names of Silas and Timothy, his fellow-workers, in his greeting.
The letter is addressed to the church. The word ‘church’ literally means the ‘called out ones.’ This term was used by the Greeks to refer to various types of political or religious assemblies. Paul makes it clear whom he is addressing, however, when he specifies that the church is “in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ:”
Why do the followers of Christ call God, ‘Father?’ There are several reasons, but one of them is that God brings the followers of Christ into a family relationship with each other and with Himself. He treats them as His children. As Paul states elsewhere in this letter, one of the roles of a father is to encourage, comfort and to urge his children to live worthy lives. This is how God treats the followers of Christ. Many people think of God as a harsh and judgmental taskmaster, but from a Christian’s point of view, God’s primary characteristic is His love.
Paul refers to Jesus as ‘Lord.’ By right, the name ‘Lord’ belongs to God. One measure of God’s esteem for Jesus is that He has given Him His own name. As Scripture says in another place, “…God also highly exalted him, and gave to him the name which is above every name; that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, those on earth, and those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:9-11) Have I brought glory to God by confessing that Jesus is Lord?
We often use words without thinking about what they mean. This is true of many people when they call Jesus the ‘Christ.’ The title, ‘Christ,’ means ‘Anointed One.’ In other words, someone who is formally appointed to perform a particular role. God has anointed Jesus as Prophet, Priest and King. If we are going to call Jesus the ‘Christ,’ then we must also accept Him in the roles to which He has been appointed. The work of a prophet is to proclaim God’s word. Do I listen to what Jesus has said on God’s behalf? One of the responsibilities of a priest is to offer sacrifices for sin. Have I accepted the sacrifice Jesus has made for me? Another work of a priest is to petition God for others. Do I pray to God in Jesus’ name? The responsibility of a king is to rule. Do I obey Jesus’ commands?
Paul ends his salutation by asking that the followers of Christ at Thessalonica receive grace and peace. Grace is usually defined as the undeserved kindness or favor of God, but it also refers to the God-given power which enables one to live for Christ and to become like Him. This is important in considering what is meant by the word ‘peace.’ It is obvious that by ‘peace’ Paul does not mean the absence of trouble or hardship. Later he writes about the “much affliction” (NIV, “severe suffering”) (1:6) which the believers at Thessalonica had experienced. It is grace which enables one to live for Christ in spite of suffering. Peace is the contentment and assurance which God gives regardless of difficult and painful circumstances.
Undying Love (Ephesians)
One of the constant themes throughout the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Ephesians is that of love. This is entirely appropriate because love is the overriding theme of the entire Bible, especially the New Testament. The entire Bible, including Paul’s letter to the Ephesians is inspired by God. As the Apostle John reminds us, “…God is love…” (1 John 4:16) Since God is love, we would expect love to suffuse His Book.
It is God’s love which made it possible for sinners to be saved. In chapter 2, verses 4 and 5 Paul writes, “But God, being rich in mercy, for his great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),” The greatest expression of God’s love is Jesus Christ. It was only through His sacrifice that sin could be atoned for. In chapter 2, verse 13 Paul writes, “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off are made near in the blood of Christ.”
God’s love for us, expressed through Christ, is so great that it is unfathomable even though it may be experienced. Paul writes in chapter 3, verses 17 through 19, “…that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; to the end that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be strengthened to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know Christ’s love which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.”
But those who experience the love of God and of Christ also have an obligation. The recipients of love must also love. In chapter 5, verses 1 and 2 Paul writes, “Be therefore imitators of God, as beloved children. Walk in love, even as Christ also loved you, and gave himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling fragrance.” In this passage the followers of Christ are called upon to show the highest form of love possible, the sacrifice of self for the good of someone else. Since they are to imitate God, how could they not emulate the kind of love that He bestows?
Where should this love manifest itself? One place is certainly the home. As Paul writes in chapter 5, verse 25, “Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the assembly [that is, the Church], and gave himself up for it;” If husbands would actually do this, there would be far fewer domestic problems.
But the love which the followers of Christ are to display is not limited to the home. It is to be extended to all of God’s people. Paul writes in chapter 4, verse 2, “with all lowliness and humility, with patience, bearing with one another in love;” In other words, the love which each follower of Christ should have is to extend to the whole church. Paul continues in verses 15 and 16, “but speaking truth in love, we may grow up in all things into him, who is the head, Christ; from whom all the body, being fitted and knit together through that which every joint supplies, according to the working in measure of each individual part, makes the body increase to the building up of itself in love.”
After exhorting the followers of Christ, throughout this letter, to love, Paul closes with a subtle warning. Chapter 6, verse 24 reads, “Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with incorruptible love. Amen.” This raises an important question. Is it possible for love to die? This verse would seem to indicate that it is possible. In fact, Jesus, when speaking of future events made this prophecy, “Because iniquity will be multiplied, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end, the same will be saved.” (Matthew 24:12-13) So, yes, it is possible for love to die.
Perhaps one of the most important lessons which can be learned from the church in Ephesus is the necessity to develop and maintain a Christlike love. We have already seen Paul’s exhortations to love. The question may be asked, did the people to whom Paul was writing ever have it? As we saw in a previous program, chapter 1, verse 15 indicates that the Ephesian Christians were once known for their love for God’s people. The exhortations in this letter are really an encouragement to the people to grow in the love they already had.
But though the Ephesian church was known for its love, it also had a problem. In a meeting with the elders of this church, Paul issued the following warning: “For I know that after my departure, vicious wolves will enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Men will arise from among your own selves, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them. Therefore watch…” (Acts 20:29-31)
Sadly, Paul’s warning proved correct. False teachers did arise in Ephesus. Paul sent Timothy there to correct the problem. He gave Timothy these instructions: “As I urged you when I was going into Macedonia, stay at Ephesus that you might command certain men not to teach a different doctrine, neither to pay attention to myths and endless genealogies, which cause disputes, rather than God’s stewardship, which is in faith— but the goal of this command is love, out of a pure heart and a good conscience and sincere faith;” (1 Timothy 1:3-5)
It is essential to understand that though Timothy was to put a stop to false teaching, the goal was love. Scripture says that the church is “…the pillar and ground of the truth.” (1 Timothy 3:15) Therefore, it is absolutely essential that falsehood be rooted out of the church. But it must never be forgotten that the goal of truth is to lead us into having a Christlike love.
To what extent did the church in Ephesus succeed in achieving this goal? Towards the end of the apostolic age, Christ spoke from heaven to several of the churches through the Apostle John. Part of the divine message to the church at Ephesus was this: “I know your works, and your toil and perseverance, and that you can’t tolerate evil men, and have tested those who call themselves apostles, and they are not, and found them false. You have perseverance and have endured for my name’s sake, and have not grown weary. But I have this against you, that you left your first love. Remember therefore from where you have fallen, and repent and do the first works; or else I am coming to you swiftly, and will move your lampstand out of its place, unless you repent.” (Revelation 2:2-5)
The church in Ephesus was able to restore sound doctrine, but lost it’s love in the process. Today Ephesus is in ruins and there is no church there. This leaves us with some important questions. Is my faith based on truth? In my zeal for truth, have I lost my love? Am I growing in Christlike love? Let us all learn from what happened to the church at Ephesus.
Pray In The Spirit, Tychicus, Final Blessing (Ephesians 6:18-24)
As human beings we have a bias towards action. When confronted by a problem we like to feel that we can actually do something to solve it. But the followers of Christ sometimes forget that the battle in which they are engaged is spiritual, not physical. In his inspired letter to the Ephesians, the Apostle Paul reminds them that victory is achieved, not through their own power, but by God’s. After telling them to be strong in the Lord’s power, to put on the full armor of God and to stand firm, he instructs them to pray. In chapter 6, verses 18 through 20 he writes, “with all prayer and requests, praying at all times in the Spirit, and being watchful to this end in all perseverance and requests for all the saints: on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in opening my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the Good News, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.”
In chapter 2, verse 18 Paul had reminded the people to whom he is writing that they have access to God through the Spirit. Now he instructs them to use that access to bring their prayers and requests to God. One may ask why it is necessary to pray in the Spirit. Doesn’t Scripture say that we are to pray in the name of Jesus (John 14:13-14, 15:16, 16:23-24) and that He is our mediator (1 Timothy 2:5)? This is very true, but Scripture also affirms that, “God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” (John 4:24) There is another reason, however, why we must pray in the Spirit. Often we do not know how to pray in accordance with God’s will or for what we should pray. Romans 8, verses 26 through 27 says, “…we don’t know how to pray as we ought. But the Spirit himself makes intercession for us with groanings which can’t be uttered. He who searches the hearts knows what is on the Spirit’s mind, because he makes intercession for the saints according to God.” While Jesus acts as our mediator, the Spirit is our intercessor or translator who presents to God on our behalf even those things which we cannot articulate.
In some religions there are set times every day to pray certain formal prayers. But the standard in Christianity is much higher than that. Paul writes that the followers of Christ should pray “on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.” (NIV) Another Scripture says, “Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17) God wants His people to be in constant communication with Him.
To pray ‘in the Spirit’ means to pray under influence or guidance of God’s Holy Spirit. There are some who think that means going into some sort of trance or state of ecstasy. Paul corrects this notion when he instructs Christ’s followers to also be watchful or alert. In chapter 5, verse 18 he had instructed them to “be filled with the Spirit.” But being filled with the Spirit does not decrease our awareness of what is happening around us. On the contrary it makes us more aware. This is why we can keep on praying for “all the saints.” (verse18) Through the working of the Spirit we can perceive and understand their needs and concerns in a better way.
After giving general instructions about prayer, Paul then asks for prayer on his own behalf. Keep in mind that Paul is writing from prison. He is in chains. In these circumstances most people would ask for prayer for their release. But Paul does not do so. Instead, he asks that people pray that he would have the right words to say while spreading the gospel and that he would be given the courage to do so. We can learn several important lessons from this. 1) If we are living in accordance with God’s will, God’s will can be accomplished through us regardless of our external circumstances. God has a purpose for our being in a situation, even if that situation is jail. Are we willing to let God use us regardless of our circumstances? 2) The followers of Christ are representatives of Christ no matter where they are. Paul specifically calls himself an ambassador even though he is in chains. Do people see Jesus in us even in difficult circumstances? Do we faithfully proclaim His message in all situations? 3) Paul was not concerned about himself. On the contrary, he was concerned that others have the opportunity to hear the gospel. On which do we place the most importance?
In verses 21 and 22 Paul writes, “But that you also may know my affairs, how I am doing, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will make known to you all things; whom I have sent to you for this very purpose, that you may know our state, and that he may comfort your hearts.”
Tychicus is mentioned several times in Scripture. Though we do not know his home town, he was from the Roman province of Asia which was located in what is now the South-Western portion of Turkey. This is the same region in which Ephesus was located. He accompanied Paul on at least part of his third missionary tour and probably was with him when he delivered an offering for the poor to the church in Jerusalem. Paul used this man as a messenger. In addition to this letter, he also delivered the letter to the Colossians and probably accompanied Onesimus in delivering the letter to Philemon. Paul may also have sent him on a mission to Crete.
In addition to delivering this letter, Paul’s purpose in sending Tychicus was so that he could verbally reassure the people about his own situation. The followers of Christ in the province of Asia no doubt knew of Paul’s imprisonment and would have been concerned about him. Tychicus was to allay those concerns and encourage the church. Paul describes Tychicus as a “beloved brother and faithful servant in the Lord.” Can the same be said about us? If we were given a task on behalf of the church would we faithfully carry it out? Would we be an encouragement to those to whom we were sent?
In the greeting to this letter, Paul asked that God grant grace and peace to Christ’s followers. He ends the letter with the same blessing, but adds love and faith to it. In verses 23 and 24 he writes, “Peace be to the brothers, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with incorruptible love. Amen.”
At the beginning of this letter Paul called the followers of Christ ‘saints.’ Here he calls them ‘brothers.’ It should not be thought, however, that Paul is excluding women from his blessing. In Scripture the term ‘brothers’ includes all those who follow Christ regardless of gender. Paul uses the term ‘brother’ to emphasize what he had already said in chapter 2, that the followers of Christ are members of God’s household. The term also indicates the unity which there should be in the church.
Put On The Full Armor Of God (Ephesians 6:10-17)
After writing about the salvation that Christ has given to His followers, their glorious inheritance, the purpose of the church and giving instructions about how to live, the Apostle Paul concludes his inspired letter to the Ephesians with an analogy to warfare. In chapter 6, verses 10 through 12 he writes, “Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world’s rulers of the darkness of this age, and against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.”
The follower of Christ must not rely on his own power but rather that of the Lord, for the forces which are arrayed against him are far beyond his strength or ability. If it were a physical battle then, perhaps, one might be able to rely on his own strength. But this battle is not physical. It is spiritual. Many have made the mistake of thinking that they must resort to violence or even war in order to defend Christianity. But the fight is not against people. It is against spiritual forces. A spiritual battle cannot be fought by physical means.
Paul will go on to say what he means by putting on the “armor of God.” But the point or purpose of putting it on is so the follower of Christ can ‘stand’ against the devil’s schemes. This does not mean that the followers of Christ are responsible for winning the war. The victory has already been won by Christ. As Scripture says, “…having stripped the principalities and the powers, he made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it [that is, the cross].” (Colossians 2:15) But though the war has already been won, the battle continues for the soul of each individual person. It is for this reason that the follower of Christ must take his stand.
“Our wrestling [NIV, “struggle”] is not against flesh and blood.” (verse 12) It is a shameful fact of history that people calling themselves Christians have sometimes waged wars in the name of Christ. But no matter what anyone may say, such wars and conflicts have nothing to do with Christ. The true adversary is the devil and the schemes which he implements through the rulers, authorities and powers of this world. It is not the rulers and authorities themselves which are the enemy. The true battle is against the “spiritual forces of wickedness” and the battlefield is in the “heavenly places.” Paul writes in another place, “For though we walk in the flesh, we don’t wage war according to the flesh; for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but mighty before God to the throwing down of strongholds, throwing down imaginations and every high thing that is exalted against the knowledge of God, and bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ;” (2 Corinthians 10:3-5)
In verses 13 through 17 Paul describes what the armor of God is, “Therefore, put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and, having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having the utility belt of truth buckled around your waist, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having fitted your feet with the preparation of the Good News of peace; above all, taking up the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;”
In describing the armor of God, Paul borrows imagery from the writings of the prophet Isaiah, chapters 11, 49, 52 and 59. It is important to note that each one of these portions of Scripture is a prophecy of the coming of Christ. Isaiah points out that sin has caused separation between God and mankind. Because man is incapable of saving himself and there was no one to intercede on his behalf, God Himself would send a Savior.
By applying the same imagery to the follower of Christ as Isaiah used in prophesying the coming of Christ, Paul points to a very important truth. Just as God brought salvation through Christ, Christ uses His followers to take that message of salvation to others. In chapters 4 and 5 Paul had already emphasized the necessity for Christ’s followers to be like Christ. Since Christ brought salvation can those of us who claim to follow Him do any less than to proclaim that salvation to those who do not yet know of it?
Many people are very zealous for their religion and are eager to come to its defense. The followers of Christ truly are in a holy war. But it is a different kind of battle than the world usually thinks of. Five of the items Paul mentions are defensive in nature. They are the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, footwear of readiness which comes from the gospel of peace, shield of faith and the helmet of salvation. This gives us a very important criterion by which to judge whether our defense of our religion is truly of God or not. Is our defense based on truth? Can our righteous way of life deflect accusation? Are we eager to spread the gospel of peace? Do we overcome attacks against us through faith? Are we secure in the knowledge of our salvation? If we can answer these questions positively, then we know that our defense is a godly one. On the other hand, if in the defense of our religion we lie and deceive, if we use the struggle as a justification for committing sin, if we stir up strife and conflict, if we try to strike down opposition by threats instead of faith, if we think that destroying those whom we regard as enemies will earn us salvation then, though we may think we are defending our religion, in reality we are in opposition to God. Even though we may wear the name of Christ, our defense has nothing to do with Him.
The only offensive weapon Paul mentions is the “sword of the Spirit.” He then defines it as the “word of God.” Usually, when we think of God’s word we have the Bible in mind. But Paul is not referring to written words enclosed by the covers of a book. The word he uses refers to a spoken proclamation or declaration. What Paul is saying is that each follower of Christ has the responsibility of not merely reading the Bible, but actively proclaiming its message to others. We must always remember, however, that the battle will not be won through our eloquence but, as Paul wrote at the beginning of this passage, through God’s might. It is not us, but the Word which will prevail. As Scripture says, “For the word of God is living, and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and is able to discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12)
Children and Parents, Slaves and Masters (Ephesians 6:1-9)
There are some who try to keep their religion separate from their everyday lives. They are quite willing to acknowledge God in their place of worship but wish to leave Him there. In contrast, no true follower of Christ will live like this. His relationship with Christ affects not only his worship but every aspect of his life. Christ is Lord of all or He is Lord of nothing. If we truly believe in Christ it will change not only our worship but also our business dealings and our family life.
After discussing the relationship between wives and husbands the Apostle Paul turns to children and parents. In chapter 6, verses 1 through 4 of his inspired letter to the Ephesians he writes, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with a promise: “that it may be well with you, and you may live long on the earth.” You fathers, don’t provoke your children to wrath, but nurture them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”
In this passage Paul presupposes that both the children and the parents to whom he is writing are followers of Christ. In the society in which these people lived it was assumed that children would be totally obedient to their parents. By law, in both Jewish and non-Jewish households, the penalties for disobedience or disrespect could be severe – up to and including death. But Paul raises the standard of Christian behavior above and beyond the dictates of law or of the expectations of society. He writes that children are to obey “in the Lord.” In other words, children are to regard obedience to their parents as service to Christ. There is an important principle here. We should not behave in a certain way merely because that is what other people expect but because we have chosen to do what is right in the eyes of Christ.
It is also important to note that Paul is writing to children who are old enough to choose to obey for the sake of Christ. In most societies children are considered to be of the same religion as their parents. But this is not true for the followers of Christ. No one is ever born a Christian. Even if a person’s parents were Christians for a hundred generations in the past it would not make him or her a Christian. One becomes a follower of Christ only by a personal and deliberate choice. Have you made that choice, or are you merely wearing the name because your parents were called Christians?
Christian children should not only obey their parents, but honor them. In support of this Paul quotes from Deuteronomy chapter 5, verse 16. This is the fifth of what are known as the ‘Ten Commandments.’ It is interesting that of the ten commandments this is the only one which carries a promise with it. The promise is two-fold: That it may go well with you, and that you may enjoy long life. On the surface it may not seem that this promise is fulfilled. The followers of Christ are often persecuted and even killed for their faith. But the followers of Christ know differently. As Paul writes in another place, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Could oppression, or anguish, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?… No, in all these things, we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” (Romans 8:35, 37)
At the time in which Paul wrote, fathers had unlimited authority over their children. They could appropriate their children’s property or income. They could sell them as slaves or into prostitution. They could could even kill them with the full sanction of the law. In non-Jewish households it was common for unwanted children to be killed at birth or left on the roadside to die. In Roman society children had fewer rights than slaves (See Andrew T. Lincoln, Word Biblical Commentary, Vol. 42, p. 399 ff.). But things are vastly different in Christ. Though a father may have unlimited power, that power is restrained and curbed by Christian principles. Paul gives two general guidelines. The first is a prohibition. A Christian father is not to exasperate or anger his children. What this means is that he is not to act unjustly or arbitrarily. In Colossians 3:21 this is expanded to include anything which would embitter or discourage the children. Secondly, a Christian father is to nurture his children in the “discipline and instruction of the Lord.” Not only will he teach his children about Christ, but he is to model Christ-likeness to them. A Christlike father will always act in his children’s best interests.
Slavery was a fact of life at the time when this letter was written. As the gospel message spread through the Roman Empire many slaves and slave holders became followers of Christ. As may be expected, the principles of Christianity affected their relationship as well. In verses 5 through 9 Paul writes, “Servants, be obedient to those who according to the flesh are your masters, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as to Christ; not in the way of service only when eyes are on you, as men pleasers; but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men; knowing that whatever good thing each one does, he will receive the same again from the Lord, whether he is bound or free. You masters, do the same things to them, and give up threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no partiality with him.”
Though slavery is not expressly forbidden anywhere in the New Testament, it is worth noting that slavery, and slave trading in particular, is contrary to the spirit of Christianity (See 1 Timothy 1:8-11). Throughout history Christians have been in the forefront of the movement to abolish slavery.
But even where slavery is not abolished outright, Christianity both elevates the slave and places important restraints on the master. In this passage Paul instructs slaves to consider the work they do as service to Christ. It may be very difficult to maintain a good attitude when we are being coerced. But when we choose to do it for the Lord, our service becomes a holy thing which we can sincerely perform from the heart. Our attitude towards masters will also change when we realize that we are actually serving Christ and it is He who will give us our reward.
Slave owners are urged to remember that they too have a Master in heaven. He is the same as the slave’s true Master. When a slave owner realizes that he must answer to the same Master as his slave, he will treat his slave justly and will look out for his welfare.
Not many of us today experience actual slavery. But shouldn’t we apply the same principles to our employment? If we are employed shouldn’t we regard our labor as service to Christ? If we are an employer shouldn’t we remember that we also have One who has authority over us?
Wives and Husbands (Ephesians 5:21-33)
While instructing the followers of Christ how to live, the Apostle Paul writes in his inspired letter to the Ephesians that they should be filled with God’s Holy Spirit. Among the characteristics of a Spirit-filled life are speaking to one another in song, singing to God from the heart and being thankful for everything. He gives a fourth characteristic when he writes in chapter 5, verse 21, “subjecting yourselves one to another in the fear of Christ.”
Before considering some specific examples of how to apply this command, it is necessary to first clear up a misunderstanding. This translation uses the words “the fear of Christ.” This is, indeed, the literal meaning of what Paul wrote. But this raises a problem. Throughout this letter Paul has emphasized God and Christ’s love and the love which Christ’s followers ought to have for God and one another. For example, in verses 1 and 2 of this same chapter he wrote, “Be therefore imitators of God, as beloved children. Walk in love, even as Christ also loved you…” In light of this, how can Paul now say that we should fear Christ? As the Apostle John tells us, “…He who fears is not made perfect in love.” (1 John 4:18) The solution to this difficulty comes when we realize that the word which Paul uses has more than one meaning. In addition to fear it also carries the connotation of reverence and respect. This is the sense in which Paul uses it in this passage.
With that in mind, let’s consider the first practical example Paul gives when he instructs the followers of Christ to submit to one another. In verses 22 through 24 he writes, “Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, and Christ also is the head of the assembly [that is, the Church], being himself the savior of the body. But as the assembly is subject to Christ, so let the wives also be to their own husbands in everything.”
It is unfortunate that some have used these verses as a club in order to compel obedience from their wives. To do so, however, is a total mis-use of Scripture and is against the spirit of Christianity. Notice that these verses are written to wives, not to husbands. Wives are to submit voluntarily. Nowhere does Scripture permit or sanction coercion on the part of a husband.
The reason wives should submit or yield to their husbands is that the husband is the head of the wife. As an analogy of this relationship Paul mentions the authority of Christ over the church. Just as the church should always be in submission to Christ, so too, wives should always defer to their husbands ‘in everything.’ Does this mean that a wife should submit even when her husband wants her to do something which is against God’s will? It is important to remember that Paul is writing to believers. The assumption in this passage is that both husband and wife are followers of Christ. One who is submitted to Christ will never desire another to do anything which is contrary to God’s will. As we shall see, Paul also writes that husbands should love their wives in the same way that Christ loves the church. Where there is perfect submission to perfect love nothing will ever violate God’s will.
In verses 25 through 33 Paul writes, “Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the assembly [that is, the Church], and gave himself up for it; that he might sanctify it, having cleansed it by the washing of water with the word, that he might present the assembly to himself gloriously, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. Even so husbands also ought to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself. For no man ever hated his own flesh; but nourishes and cherishes it, even as the Lord also does the assembly; because we are members of his body, of his flesh and bones. “For this cause a man will leave his father and mother, and will be joined to his wife. The two will become one flesh.” This mystery is great, but I speak concerning Christ and of the assembly. Nevertheless each of you must also love his own wife even as himself; and let the wife see that she respects her husband.”
Much could be said about this passage but we will only take time to mention a few of the highlights. The first thing to notice is that husbands are instructed to love their wives in the same way as Christ loves the church. This love gives of itself. There is no selfishness in it. People often claim to have love yet, instead of giving of themselves, demand that their own desires be met. Love, if it involves the gratification of self, is not the kind of love a husband is to have for his wife. Instead, a husband must be willing to give himself up for his wife just as Christ died on behalf of the church. Can we honestly say that we love our wives like that?
What is the goal of love? Christ died in order to make the church glorious, holy, and without blemish. Christ-like love always looks out for the welfare of its object. A husband should always have in mind what is best for his wife. In this way he honors and elevates her.
Why should a husband love his wife in this way? If for no other reason, Paul has emphasized the need for all followers of Christ to become like their Lord. If we are to become like Christ, then we must also love as He did. But there is another reason as well. Paul quotes Genesis chapter 2, verse 24 to establish the fact that husband and wife are, in reality, one. They are not adversaries, but one organism. Jesus said, “…A house divided against itself falls.” (Luke 11:17) When a husband loves his wife as he should, the marriage as a whole benefits.
In this passage Paul has used marriage as a metaphor for Christ and the church. It is worth noting that Christ has cleansed the church, that is His followers, and made them holy “by the washing of water with the word.” (verse 26) There can be no question that this refers to baptism. There are many who contradict Paul’s inspired words and say that baptism is not necessary in order to be made holy. But in another place Scripture says, “Or don’t you know that all we who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him through baptism to death, that just like Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we also might walk in newness of life.” (Romans 6:3-4) There are many who profess to be followers of Christ yet still are burdened and oppressed by sin. Is it possible that they have never died with Christ in baptism so that they may rise from that watery grave into a new life?
Living Wisely (Ephesians 5:15-21)
The thing which makes the followers of Christ unique from all other people is that God has re-created them in His own image. It follows, then, that they should possess a God-like character. This has practical consequences for one’s day-to-day lifestyle. The Apostle Paul writes in chapter 5 of his inspired letter to the Ephesians, that Christ’s followers should live lives of love and live as children of light. The term ‘children of light’ expresses the idea that the light of Christ should be visible in, and be reflected by, the lives of His followers. In view of this Paul writes in verses 15 through 21: “Therefore watch carefully how you walk, not as unwise, but as wise; redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore don’t be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. Don’t be drunken with wine, in which is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs; singing, and making melody in your heart to the Lord; giving thanks always concerning all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to God, even the Father; subjecting yourselves one to another in the fear of Christ.”
This translation says, “watch carefully how you walk .” But what Paul is really writing about is how we are to live our lives. He mentions three things which should characterize the life of someone who is trying to be God-like. The words “watch carefully” indicate one of these characteristics. In other words, a follower of Christ should think deeply about his life and act out of conviction rather than being rash, impulsive or imprudent.
A follower of Christ should also live as the ‘wise.’ The word Paul uses implies those who have expertise or skill. When we think of someone who is an expert or has skill in a particular craft or occupation, we know that their proficiency was developed through long hours of practice, from willingness to listen to others and humbly learning from their own mistakes. In the same way, we cannot expect success in living a godly life to come by itself. It requires practice, discipline and a continual desire for improvement.
A third characteristic in the life of someone who follows Christ should be “redeeming the time” (NIV, “making the most of every opportunity”). The word Paul uses here means to ‘buy back.’ In other words, we need to treat time as something which is precious. The reason Paul gives is that the “days are evil.” All we have to do is look around us to know that this is true. The days in which we live are not only evil in a moral sense, but are short as well. We have only a little time to accomplish the task that God has given us. In chapter 4 Paul stressed the need to “put on the new man.” (4:24) Does our use of time help us toward that goal, or draw us toward evil? Paul is not saying that a follower of Christ should never relax or enjoy himself. But he is saying that we should use our time wisely and productively.
If we are to live wisely, then it follows that we should not be foolish. The word which Paul uses means ‘without reason.’ In other words our choices and decisions should not be based on whim or emotion. In contrast to this Paul urges Christ’s followers to “understand what the will of the Lord is.” This is a restatement of what he had already said in verse 10, “proving what is well pleasing to the Lord.” When we make decisions do we make them according to what would please us, or what will please Christ?
We can judge whether something is good or not by the results. As another example of the difference between foolish and wise living Paul contrasts getting drunk and being filled with God’s Holy Spirit. He points out that drinking leads to debauchery or dissipation. In contrast to this, we learn from Galatians 5, verses 22 and 23 that, “…the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, and self-control…” What fruit is evident in our lives?
Paul writes that being filled with the Spirit finds expression in music. He mentions psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Many attempts have been made to link these terms to certain types or styles of music but the truth is that no one can say with certainty what forms or styles of music are referred to here. There can be no doubt that the Old Testament Psalms are included, but it is also evident that appropriate music is not limited to the Psalms. Apparently a variety of musical styles are acceptable to God. How, then, should the followers of Christ evaluate the music which they hear or which is sung in their assemblies? In the term ‘spiritual songs’ Paul gives us an important criterion by which to judge. A spiritual song is, literally, one which has been prompted or inspired by the Holy Spirit. How can we know if a song is of the Spirit? We have already mentioned the fruit of the Spirit. Does a song prompt us to grow in love, joy, peace, patience and the other fruit of the Spirit? If, so then that song is of the Spirit.
What does it mean to ‘speak to one another’ in Psalms, hymns and songs? Another Scripture says, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs…” (Colossians 3:16) Do our songs convey Christ’s word? Do they teach and admonish? Do they reflect wisdom or foolishness?
In addition to being a channel of mutual spiritual growth, our spirits can commune with God’s Spirit through music. In order for this to be true though, our songs, whether they are intended to edify, whether they are songs of worship and praise, or whether they are songs of contrition, must be offered to God from the heart. Do we sing from the heart, or are we merely mouthing words?
A Spirit-filled life is also thankful. Thankfulness is not conditional upon circumstances. Paul writes that we should not merely be thankful in all circumstances (as he says in the first letter to the Thessalonians, chapter 5, verse 18) but for everything. At first this may seem impossible. Indeed, it is impossible for those who do not follow Christ, because our thanks is to be given to God through Jesus Christ. The reason Christ’s followers can be thankful for whatever happens is that they have God’s promise in Romans chapter 8, verse 28, “…that all things work together for good for those who love God…” Do we really believe that?
Be Imitators of God (Ephesians 5:1-14)
All those who choose to follow Christ are changed. As the Apostle Paul writes in chapter 4, verse 24 of his inspired letter to the Ephesians, they are created anew to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. This is why Paul goes on to say in chapter 5, “Be therefore imitators of God, as beloved children.” (5:1)
But what does it mean to be like God? How does one imitate God? In the next several verses Paul tells us in what ways we should be like God. In verse 2 he writes, “Walk in love, even as Christ also loved you, and gave himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling fragrance.”
If we want to know what God is like, all we have to do is look at Jesus. Scripture says He, “…is the radiance of his glory, the very image of his substance…” (Hebrews 1:3) So, if we are going to be like God and imitate His love, we will act like Jesus. Paul reminds us that the essence of love is to give. Therefore, in order to live a life of love, we will give of ourselves on behalf of others just as Jesus did.
Paul then lists several things which are opposed or contrary to a life of love. “But sexual immorality, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not even be mentioned among you, as becomes saints; nor filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not appropriate; but rather giving of thanks.” (5:3-4)
The reason that sexual immorality, impurity and greed must be avoided by the follower of Christ is that they are not becoming (improper). Obscenity, foolish talk and coarse joking must likewise be avoided because they are not appropriate. It should be noted that Paul is not forbidding witty conversation or humor. The kind of speech to which he is referring is the dirty joke or the double-entendre which would draw one’s thoughts towards, or entice one to entertain, immoral desires or behavior. In contrast to these evils the lives of the followers of Christ should be characterized by thanksgiving. This is a good test which we can apply to ourselves in order to gauge to what extent we are living a life of love. Are we thankful? Or, are our minds filled with sexual innuendo?
There are eternal consequences to the choices we make. In verses 5 through 7 Paul writes, “Know this for sure, that no sexually immoral person, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the Kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words. For because of these things, the wrath of God comes on the children of disobedience. Therefore don’t be partakers with them.”
As already mentioned, the essence of love is to give. Love has the benefit, or good, of the other person in view. In contrast, the focus of those who are immoral, impure and greedy is self-gratification. This is why Paul calls them idolaters. Though they may not outwardly bow down before graven images they have placed their own desires above God. In addition to being idolaters they are disobedient. Idolatry and disobedience are totally incompatible with following Christ. The result is to experience God’s wrath.
In verses 8 through 14 Paul gives another way in which the followers of Christ should be like God: “For you were once darkness, but are now light in the Lord. Walk as children of light, for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth, proving what is well pleasing to the Lord. Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather even reprove them. For the things which are done by them in secret, it is a shame even to speak of. But all things, when they are reproved, are revealed by the light, for everything that reveals is light. Therefore he says, “Awake, you who sleep, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you”
Scripture says that, “…God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.” (1 John 1:5) It follows, then, that if we are to be like God we, too, must show forth God’s light. Jesus told His disciples, “You are the light of the world… Even so, let your light shine before men; that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-16) But what does it mean to ‘walk as children of light’ or to ‘let our light shine’? Paul reminds us that the fruit, or influence, of light is goodness, righteousness and truth. All three of these virtues flow from the attributes of God. Scripture tells us that God is good (Psalm 25:8, Nahum 1:7), that He is righteous (Romans 3:26) and that He is true (Numbers 23:19, Psalm 31:5, Hebrews 6:18). Paul writes that we are to find out ‘what is well pleasing to the Lord.’ (verse 10) This is how we can know what pleases Him. Anything whose outcome or fruit is goodness, righteousness and truth is pleasing to Him. Conversely, anything which does not lead to these virtues is not from the light, but is one of the ‘unfruitful deeds of darkness.’ (verse 11) The ‘deeds of darkness’ result in shame, to the point that it is shameful to even mention them. If it is shameful to mention them, how much more so to participate in them!
Paul writes that the followers of Christ are to expose or rebuke the deeds of darkness. But this leaves us with a dilemma. How can we rebuke the deeds of darkness when it is shameful to even mention them? The answer comes from understanding the nature of light. The nature of light is such that darkness cannot exist in the same place with it. When we want to see what is in a room we do not try to shoo the darkness away. Instead, we turn on a light! Paul reminds us that it is light which makes things visible. In the same way, the deeds of darkness are exposed and revealed for what they are when the followers of Christ live as ‘children of light.’ Their thoughts, attitudes, motives and actions, in fact their very lives, are a rebuke to those who are disobedient.
What is the purpose of exposing or rebuking deeds of darkness? It is so people will see the light and be rescued from spiritual death. “Awake, you who sleep, and arise from the dead…” (verse 14) Paul reminds his readers that they, too, had once been darkness in need of the light.
We must also remember what the source of light is. It is not something which is self-generated. Christ’s followers are not the origin, but the bearers of light. Paul makes it clear that it is the light of Christ which shines in and through them. “…Christ will shine on you.” (verse 14) Jesus himself said, “…I am the light of the world. He who follows me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12) Are we truly following Christ? Or, are we still in the darkness?