Introduction
Ephesians 5 is the fifth chapter of the Epistle to the Ephesians in the New Testament of the Christian Bible. It is a Pauline Epistle and was written around AD 62–63.
A Brief Summary of Ephesians 5
Ephesians 5 can be best understood in light of the commandment to “walk in love” given in chapter 4. In chapters 5-6, Paul expands upon this commandment by showing how love is to be “worked out” in everyday life.
In chapter 5, Paul begins with a discussion of sexual immorality and its effects upon the body and the soul. He goes on to exhort believers to imitate Christ’s love by loving their wives as Christ loved the church. husbands are to lead their homes in Christ-likeness, and wives are to submit to their husbands as unto the Lord. Families are admonished to live out their lives in love, showing forbearance and forgiveness towards one another.
Next, Paul addresses the issue ofsubmit themselves outward into slavery or oppression. Instead, believers are called to serve one another through acts of love. This is also seen as Paul’s response tobarred from heaven because of their continued involvement inslavery (see Galatians 5:1).
Finally,Paul encourages believers to be filled with the Spirit, which will enable them to “walk in love” as they have been commanded.
Themes and Key Takeaways
There are several themes in Ephesians 5, but the most dominant one is marriage. In verses 21-33, Paul gives a very detailed description of what marriage should look like. In summary, he says that marriage is a symbol of the relationship between Christ and the Church. husbands should love their wives as Christ loved the Church and gave himself up for her. wives should respect their husbands and submit to them. This is not a subservient role, but rather one of mutual submission out of reverence for Christ.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ephesians 5 is all about living a life that is pleasing to God. We are to be imitators of God, and walk in love just as Christ loved us. We are also to make every effort to filled with the Spirit, so that we can discern what is good and pleasing to God.