Ephesians 5:1
Therefore be imitators of God as dear children.

Application: 

This section can be understood by Paul’s opening statement: be imitators of God, as dearly loved children. In light of who we are in Christ, we are called to imitate God. As a child often mimics the characteristics and behavior of a parent, so God’s children are to copy their heavenly Father. As beloved children, we have the same status as God’s “beloved Son” (Matt 3:17), so Jesus Christ is the model by which to pattern ourselves. The Son put the Father on display (see John 1:18). So if you don’t know how to pattern yourself after God the Father, all you need to do is take a close look at God the Son.

We imitate God with lives characterized by love (5:2), light (5:8), and wisdom (5:15). Therefore, we must first walk in love, just as Christ also loved us. Christians are to reflect the nature of God’s love by serving others rather than self. Christ’s sacrifice on the cross is the supreme illustration of what it means to love. It was a fragrant offering—it was acceptable to God. Similarly, when we love others by seeking what is best for their lives, it smells good to God.

The flip side is living in sexual immorality … impurity or greed. These things should not even be heard of among you, as is proper for saints (5:3). The culture of Ephesus embraced all forms of immorality. But Paul told the church not to let the culture set the standard for them. As saints or “holy ones,” they were to be set apart for God. Obscene and foolish talking or crude joking didn’t belong on their lips (5:4).

Believers ought not laugh over things that should make us cry. You can’t adopt a non-Christian lifestyle and think you will have an inheritance in the kingdom (i.e., rewards that will be given to faithful believers) (5:5). We must not be deceived. Because of these things, God’s wrath is coming, so we must not be partners with unbelievers (5:6–7). Don’t let their lifestyles be your own. God wants us to see sin the way he sees it.

Reference: Tony Evans, The Tony Evans Bible Commentary (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2019), 1228–1229.

To God be the glory!

Our Lord Jesus Christ created everything! By Him, For Him!

“The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

Disclaimer

When God inspires me, I write blogs. Consider this writing as a Bible study. Like the Bereans in Acts 17:11, search the Scriptures to determine whether what I write is so. Always consult with your church ministers about biblical matters. I am also not a professional writer, so some grammar or spelling errors may be present. I try my best to write as efficiently as possible. Your brother in Christ, Ricardo

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My book, “Battle Strategy: God’s Plan Amid Chaos.” It’s packed with helpful insights into Bible study and understanding. You can get a free digital version on my website. Fifty percent of the proceeds from this book go to helping children. The book covers the main biblical points and salvation, so you’ll find something valuable. 

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