EPHESIANS

The following comments are from Navigator's and Quiet Time Diary journals. One verse will be entered, then the comment, then the date.

1:3    Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ,   

    God has blessed us. First, as believers, He has given us the inheritance of living with Him forever. He has also been concerned with our lives while on earth and, if we (I) listen, tries to direct our lives to serve Him here. (DRM 10/10/06)

1:4    . . .just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him.

    God knows everything. He knew before I was born that I would put my complete trust in Him (God) and His Son (Jesus). That doesn't mean I don't have my own free will, just that He knew what my decision would be. (DRM 10/4/09)

1:5    He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will, 

    It's always amazing to me to think that God knew that I would be a Christian thousands of years ago. He knew (and knows) everything about me - and what I would be doing TODAY. God is love, God cares about me. God is awesome! (DRM 9/3/2000)

    This is another controversial verse to many. My attitude has been that God knows EVERYTHING including who will eventually be in Heaven with Him. While we have a free will, He already knows how we will react to different situations - and He knows us better that we do ourselves. (DRM 10/5/03)

1:7, 8a    In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace ⁸which He lavished on us.

    Trespasses are our sins against God and other people. When we (I) am aware of a sin (too often), I pray for forgiveness and try to correct my future way, so as not to do the same thing twice. God=Jesus redeems me (us) through the shed blood of Jesus - who died for all sins. This forgiveness by God is grace. (DRM 10/5/09)

1:11    In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will. 

    "the counsel of His will" seems to be another way of saying, "listen to the Holy Spirit in you!" As I listen and do the instructions, I have the hope of an inheritance when I get home to heaven. Yes, that can be a motivator! (DRM 9/4/2000)

1:13, 14    In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation - having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise. ¹⁴Who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God's own possession, to the praise of His glory.

    [Re: 1:13]    This is a review of my conversion. I heard the message, I believed what was said, and I repented of my sins to trust totally in Jesus as Lord. Then I was sealed in His love and filled with the Holy Spirit to direct my life. (DRM 10/6/03)

    The key part of these two verses was the sealing of the Holy Spirit at the time that I first believed or trusted in Christ alone as my Savior. We (I) received the Holy Spirit as a "deposit" to my account, or a pledge of my future inheritance of being with Jesus in Heaven forever. Certainly this deserves my praise to God for what He has done in the process! (DRM 10/11/06)

1:17    . . . that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him. 

    This was the end of Paul's prayer for the Ephesians. It's also a prayer that I pray for myself. "that the Lord will give me wisdom and a revelation in the knowledge of Him and His Word." (DRM 9/5/2000)

    This refers to prayers that Paul prayed to God about other believers. Paul prayed that we would receive a spirit of wisdom - which we truly can receive from God -  and continuously grow in our knowledge of Him.
    With study and the Holy Spirit's help, I can continue to grow in understanding all of His plans for my life and the future in general. (DRM 10/11/06)

1:18    I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,

    A customer came into Avis Cards in early 1997 and told me to check this verse. Maybe she knew that the Lord had other plans for me, and wanted me to be enlightened. At the time it didn't mean much. Now it means more - that He has a plan to use me more. (DRM 9/6/2000)

    Back in 1997, an Avis Cards customer seemed to indicate this verse [with others] was meant for me. While it seems general, I can finally see what He wants me to do. 
    God, teach me how to get all of YOUR desires done in my life. (DRM 10/7/03)

1:22, 23    And He put all things in subjection under His feet, and gave Him as head over all things to the church, ²³which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.

    This answers the question, "Who is Jesus?" at least partially. God gave us His Son, Jesus, to be our spiritual leader today and physical ruler "tomorrow." The church represents the different aspects of Jesus by the use of the various gifts He gives to those who trust in Him. Jesus is our Leader, and no other intermediary. (DRM 10/6/09)

2:1,2    And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience.

    While I was not a born-again Christian, I didn't realize the state that I was in. I didn't know where I would go when I died and rarely cared. Thank you Lord, for opening my eyes! (DRM 9/7/2000)

    I never knew it! Before I became a born-again Christian, I did whatever I wanted and tried to make lots of money. I knew about Jesus from what I had learned in Sunday School - but I never knew Him in my heart. Until I became as a child again, and trusted in Jesus, I was "lost" and on a path to hell. Thank God, my eyes and heart were opened in 1986.

2:3    Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.

    A sinner is a sinner. Non-Christians were "dead in . . . trespasses and sins" (v. 1) and we too - as stated here.
    The difference is that we were made alive with Christ (v. 5), thus the old nature should have been transformed.
    While I (we) still sin, and aren't perfect, we have the Holy Spirit to tell us or convict us when we sin, and we (I) can go to the Lord to ask for forgiveness and start anew. (DRM 1/11/12)

2:4,5    But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, ⁵even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved).

    I (we) was born a sinner. Until my spiritual eyes were opened, I was spiritually dead. At the time I was "born-again," He opened my eyes and forgave my sins. I did nothing to deserve His grace - but experienced His love. Whatever works I do now are in appreciation for all that He has done for me - and overwhelming desire for others to also know of His grace. (DRM 10/7/09)

2:5    even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved).

    Even before becoming a Christian, Christ knew my heart. (He knows all because He created all.) He knew how long it would take me to really hear Him and still saved me. I'll always thank Him! (DRM 9/8/2000)

    There was NO WAY that I could save myself. Why should God say "Dennis is good," because, in comparison to Jesus, I am nothing. The only way I have any hope is through God's grace. I have to keep admitting how I am falling short, and hope He will lead me to a closer walk with Jesus. (DRM 10/8/03)

2:8,9    For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - ⁹not by works, so that no one can boast.

    I have heard this verse many times over the past year, and am surprised that it's memorization is not required - yet. This verse is one of the bases of my conversion - that I was saved by God's grace and not by works alone. (DRM 1/21/87)

    When I was saved, it wasn't from anything that I did, it was only by accepting His gift that I didn't deserve. I didn't work for the gift and STILL don't do enough good works - but still feel the assurance of salvation through Jesus Christ and Him alone. (DRM 9/9/2000)

    I can and have given away over 100,000 bookmarks to churches and people, but my work won't get me into Heaven. The work that God gives me (not the other way around) is done in thankfulness for what He has already done in saving me. I must always listen to His still small voice and do as He directs me. (DRM 10/12/06)

2:10    For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. 

    This seems like a clear verse, but is more difficult for me. I feel that I know what works God has for me to do, but my ability to "get there" is very, very slow - which I think may close my opportunity to do His will. I don't see how I can do things alone. (DRM 10/9/03)

2:12, 13    —remember that you were at that time separate from Christ, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. ¹³But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

    This is a reminder that the Jews were/are God's chosen people. In Old Testament times the ones who had faith in God were the ones who had eternal life with Him. The only way that I (we) have access to God and also eternal life with Him is through the shed blood of Jesus Christ. It was a decision that God made ages ago; and is the source of most of my thankfulness. Without Jesus, my destiny would be eternal damnation. (DRM 10/8/09)

2:13    But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

    Before Jesus came, the Jews were the chosen people and all of the Old Testament was written for them. Jesus changed that and all non-Jews-who were formerly far off - are now part of the Body. Thank you Jesus for dying for not just the Jews, but for me too! (DRM 9/10/2000)

2:14, 15a    For He Himself [Jesus] is our peace, who made both groups into one, and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall, ¹⁵by abolishing in His flesh the enmity, which is the Law of commandments. . .

    [re: 2:14]    We have always had two groups, the Jews and the Gentiles, the circumcised and the uncircumcised. But, with Christ, we have become one - He has unified us - so long as we are believers in Him. I feel the same way about the different denominations - which don't matter, but only the heart of each person. (DRM 10/10/03)

    I had to go back to v. 11 to see that the two groups were the uncircumcised and the circumcised, or the Jews and the Gentiles. A constant theme in the Bible is the desire to unify, rather then divide the church, or body of believers. My life should be of service to Christ, and the Law is secondary - as an outline of the things to strive for. (DRM 10/13/06)

2:16    . . . and might reconcile them both in one body to God through the cross, by it having put to death the enmity.

    Without a dictionary, I believe that enmity is the "differences" that here refer to Jews and Gentiles (v. 11-12).
    As Jesus died for our sins, He died for all people; Jews, Gentiles, Muslims and everyone else. All people who trust in Him for eternal life are part of His body - the universal church. There shouldn't be any reason for two members of the same body to have differences - as we should be all working for the same cause. (DRM 10/9/09)

2:19    So then you are no longer strangers and aliens but you are fellow citizens with the saints, an are of God's household,

    This is the beginning of a four verse sentence. As believers, we are part of Jesus' spiritual body. The body consists of other believers from the past and present. Jesus is the cornerstone (v. 20) and each believer is like a brick that has a small part to make up the whole structure.
    Am I 'fitting in" or am I "bearing the weight" of those who need me? (DRM 10/10/09)

2:20    having been built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the cornerstone,

    I believe that this is referring to the "church" of Christ. Yesterday we put the Jews that are believers with Christians - and today I think we put both groups of believers into one church, of which Jesus is the cornerstone. (DRM 9/11/2000)

    I'm thinking of Christianity as a large building. The foundation would be the Jewish Law and Old Testament. It's real important - and old. When we get to ground level, we see the cornerstone [Jesus] quite often with valuable contents! We are to build up from what is already given . . . (DRM 10/11/03)

    This verse is only ¼ of a long paragraph that reminds me how the building of the church occurs spiritually. Jesus Christ is our rock, the base, or cornerstone of my faith. The apostles and prophets represent the foundation, and we believers could be the walls and roof - making the church a complete structure. (DRM 10/13/06)

2:21, 22    . . . in whom the whole building, being fitted together, is growing into a holy temple in the Lord, ²²in whom you also are being built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit.

    In the last 11 verses of this chapter the thought is that the new Christians are now accepted to God by the blood of Jesus (v. 13). These final two verses continue that thought with the illustration of the Cornerstone (Jesus) foundation (apostles and prophets, v. 20) and structure - as referred to here.
    We are all to be unified in our faith in Jesus, NOT divided - which seems to be the reality today. (DRM 9/29/11)

3:5    . . . which in other generations was not made known to the sons of men, as it has now been revealed to His holy apostles and prophets in the Spirit;

    Remembering this was written in the first century, Paul or the other apostles had not had the Holy Spirit available to direct them until Pentecost. It was a new revelation to know that Gentiles were also to be a part of God's family.
    I praise God that He sent the Holy Spirit to help us as needed. I still wish I could hear His small voice more often. (DRM 10/11/09)

3:6    to be specific, that the Gentiles are fellow heirs and fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel. 

    This seems like a review of previous verses. God chose the Jews first. When they did not respond, then He opened the gospel to the Gentiles everyone. Paul seems to be the first that became aware of this and wanted to be sure that we knew that it was not just the Jews. (DRM 9/12/2000)

    In Paul's time there were two types of people, Jews and non-Jews=Gentiles. To include the Gentiles in the body of Christ is to include everyone. I think the word "promise" indicates they are POTENTIAL members of Christ's body, which individuals are truly known by God. (DRM 10/14/06)

3:7    of which I was made a minister, according to the gift of God's grace which was given to me according to the working of His power. 

    Paul is considered to be one of the greatest teachers of Christianity. He truly was a minister of the Lord! Where did he go to college? The answer is in this verse. He was given his gift through the Holy Spirit's teaching. I pray that I will also learn and teach with the help of the Holy Spirit. (DRM 10/12/03)

3:8    To me, the very least of all saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unfathomable riches of Christ,

    Paul was very modest, but he made a point here. He said that he was the "very least of all saints." Many other people (like me) would also feel the same — but he and we are ALL called to preach to the Gentiles and tell them of Christ. (DRM 9/13/2000)

    There is no doubt that Paul was chosen by the Lord, from his conversion to the end of his ministry. He clearly heard the call of the Lord, and didn't refuse to do what he was told, even if it caused him pain. While I still fear the pain, I want to do what the Lord Jesus leads me to do. (DRM 10/13/03)

3:9    and to bring to light what is the administration of the mystery which for ages has been hidden in God, who created all things;

    Paul was called by God to proclaim the gospel to the Gentiles, which was a new revelation. God had just revealed that mystery to him.
    My job is related to his. No matter how it's done, the gospel must be proclaimed to the next generation. (DRM 10/14/06)

3:10    . . . so that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and the authorities in the heavenly places.

    The wisdom of God is generally given through the ministry of the Holy Spirit. He tells us things that we wouldn't normally know through either direct communication (dreams, etc.) or helping us to interpret the Bible correctly. We then relate our thoughts and devotion to heaven by prayer. (DRM 10/12/09)

3:16    that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man:

    This is part of a prayer of Paul's to the Ephesians. Paul desires that the Ephesians would be stronger spiritually - probably so they could understand more and be more willing to share their faith with others - as I need to do. (DRM 10/14/03)

3:18    . . . may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, . . .

    This is about the middle of a six verse sentence, where Paul wants to remind believers - saints - that God=Christ loves us and only wants the best for us. I often forget the "breadth, length, height and depth" of His love, and need to be reminded of it more often! (DRM 10/13/09)

3:19    . . . and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God.

    This is part of a prayer that Paul is writing to believers in all of the verses read today. [3:14-19] Paul only wanted the best for us, and it's something to strive for. Studying His Word daily helps! (DRM 9/14/2000)

3:20, 21    Now to Him who is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, 21to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.

    I know I have heard this benediction many times at the end of church services, but never really reflected on the words that much.
    Jesus=God really can do more than we ask or think! Jesus loves me and wants the best for me. Like a parent who gives their child a gift, He can afford anything, and it can be a great and wonderful gift, if He chooses. (DRM 10/15/06)

4:1    I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, entreat you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, . . . 

    It's easy to get diverted - that seems like the story of my life. But this verse "entreats" me to do what I have been called to do. If I know what I have to do - get on with it. Going to NYS work is a conflict. (DRM 9/15/2000)

    Paul is telling us to fulfill our ministry call, and to do it honorably. Now that I feel that I know what His call is, I am not fulfilling the obligation - in my opinion. The current conflict - which is always a problem - is money and how to pay my bills. I need to know how He will provide. (DRM 10/15/03)

4:7    But to each one of us grace is given according to the measure of Christ's gift.

    This seems to indicate that everyone on earth is given grace when they are born. Then the problem is what to do with it - to ignore it, or to accept the gift of Jesus when made aware of it. Only God knows which we will choose and when. (DRM 9/16/2000)

4:9    (Now this expression, "He ascended." what does it mean except that He also had descended into the lower parts of the earth?

    In the Apostle's Creed there is the controversial, "He descended into Hell" phrase that my mother refused to say. This verse seems to be the cause of the controversy. I don't think this should change my faith, as no matter where He went for 3 days, I know He is my Leader and is in Heaven now. (DRM 10/16/06)

4:10    He who descended is Himself also He who ascended far above all the heavens, so that He might fill all things.)

    Where is Heaven? Where is Hell? We (I) naturally think that Heaven is above  and Hell is below, but how can one place see the other? (Luke 16:23) Of course this verse refers to Jesus descending from Heaven to somewhere. I think this refers to earth, and His earthly ministry. Among other things , He was sent to fulfill prophecy. (DRM 10/14/09)

4:11    And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers,

    It seems to me from all of my study for many years (and the Holy Spirit's encouragement) that God wants me to be an evangelist. But there are other things on this list - did He mean something else? I don't think so! (DRM 9/17/2000)

4:12    for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ;

    This verse refers back to verse 11, "pastors and teachers," and tells us what we expect these servants of God to do.
    That doesn't mean that we who aren't pastors and teachers of the Bible are free to live in sin. Our job still has to be to read, study and meditate on the Bible's content - and to do as we are instructed. (DRM 9/6/11)

4:13    until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ. 

    The Christian church of today is a church of division. People still disagree on the smallest details of the faith. This was not God's plan. He wants UNITY and for us to avoid the trivia. He wants a mature man that Christ [the Holy Spirit] can indwell. (DRM 10/16/03)

    I would call this a definition of sanctification in some respect. Jesus wanted all believers to be unified into one body - the church; no matter our differences in worship style, etc. The sanctification part seems to be how we should grow to maturity in the faith as time progresses. It's an unending goal. (DRM 10/16/06)

4:14    As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming;

    As a result of what? The previous sentence (v.11-13) refers to the different "jobs" or positions that believers have and how they should be building up other believers.
    In a way this could be considered prophetic in that there was only one church of Christ then, but now there are so many denominations, views and independent churches, that it seems that everyone has a different insight to what the Bible says. Do not be deceived. I try to stick with the Source - King Jesus and His Word alone. (DRM 10/15/09)

4:15    but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him, who is the head, even Christ. 

    It's impossible to hide anything from God or Jesus. He knows everything. Lying to God or anyone on earth just gets a person into deeper lies eventually, so I tell God and others the truth as I know it or see it. (DRM 9/18/2000)

4:17    This is say therefore, and affirm together with the Lord, that you walk no longer just as the Gentiles also walk, in the futility of their mind, . . . 

    As Christians, we are to be DIFFERENT. How would people distinguish us from the unsaved Gentiles if we appeared, talked and behaved the same? People must see more sharing and compassion in us. [me] (DRM 9/19/2000)

    When I became a Christian, I was separated from the world. My destiny changed. In the "old life" I was going in circles, but now I have direction. As time has progressed, He has lead me more and more to a specific task to do. I pray that I can do it, with God's help. (DRM 10/17/03)

4:18    . . . being darkened in their understanding, excluded from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardness of their heart;

    This is another part of a sentence.
    Here Paul is describing unbelievers - which he called Gentiles in v. 17. We are to be 'set apart' from unbelievers - and they can be from any background.
    Part of belief is being willing to listen to the Holy Spirit and doing as He directs. Lord, don't let me have a hard heart when it comes to hearing You through your Spirit. (DRM 10/16/09)

4:19    and they, having become callous, have given themselves over to sensuality, for the practice of every kind of impurity with greediness.

    Paul said that believers shouldn't walk like the Gentiles also walk (v. 17). I think he is referring to the NON-BELIEVING Gentiles here.
    We all have an inborn sin nature. If we are not convicted for our sins, we would be like the people described in this verse. Someone or something is needed to open the eyes and hearts of unbelievers to trust in Jesus. (DRM 10/17/06)

4:23,24    and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind ²⁴and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth. 

    Transformation is one of my favorite words. God wants us to change our ways (transform) from the ways of the world (evil) to the spiritual ways of the Lord (good). We have to choose to do this and depend on His leading. (DRM 9/20/2000)

    Be transformed - is what comes to my mind here. A Christian can't be the same as a non-Christian. We MUST be different! We must be thankful for the gift of salvation and continue the life-learning experience of studying His Word. Change me, Lord! (DRM 9/29/2000)

4:26, 27    In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, ²⁷and do not give the devil a foothold.

    Yes, I do get angry with others, and I do try to control my emotions at those times. Sometimes I tell others of the problem and that seems to make the matter worse. We know by these verses that anger is bad and we should correct bad feelings before the sun goes down. (DRM 1/14/87)

    One of the more difficult times in my life was when a neighbor who meant so much to me, suddenly got mad and stopped talking. He said he wouldn't respond to phone calls and I kept quiet too long. I should have sent a letter and didn't for a year. (DRM 9/21/2000)

    Sometimes this verse is hard to obey. It is very convicting when I get upset with someone. While I don't know what caused the "incident," there must have been a reason, and God wanted me to learn something from it for my spiritual growth.
    Without forgiveness, a bitter, unforgiving spirit will enter (sin) and it could go downhill from there. I need to keep my "slate clean" every night. (DRM 10/17/06)

4:28    He who steals must steal no longer; but rather he must labor, performing with his own hands what is good, so that he will have something to share with one who has need.

    While I'm not aware that I have stolen anything from anyone, this verse sums up my current status at present. After four years without a "job" (Full-time), my money is nearly gone. I can't just sit and wait for responses to job applications, so the Lord opened doors so I could "do something" with my hands. Now I need to make enough to pay the rent, then share with others in need. God is the true Provider. (DRM 10/17/09)

4:29    Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, that it may give grace to those who hear. 

    All of my words are NOT wholesome. While I don't swear, I DO criticize people who don't do things as I think they should. Lord, help me to be more like You in how I speak to and about others. (DRM 9/22/2000)

4:30    And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 

    I could write something on nearly every verse in this section [4:25-32]! I have felt that I was grieving the Holy Spirit because He told me my calling - and I'm not doing it yet. Finally, about three days ago, a plan was made and written where I would be serving the Lord full-time. Now the grieving seems to have stopped - as the plan is committed to. (DRM 10/18/03)

4:31    Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.

    When things don't go "my" way, all of the words above seem to be appropriate in today's world. I know of a recent time when I had bitterness and it took a while to let go.
    God understands our feelings, but directs us to love our enemies and remember that He is in control. Don't take these feelings out on others, but show them Jesus' love, and He will take care of the situation in His way. (DRM 1/14/12)

5:2    and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you, and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma. 

    There's a lot in this verse! Love and compassion seem to go together for me recently. Walking in love seems to me to be compassion for others. That's easy. The hard part is to let them know that you care about them - and their souls. (DRM 9/23/2000) 

5:3    But immorality or any impurity or greed must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints;

    God wants us to be perfect. We are born sinners. How can we (I) achieve perfection? First we have to know the "rules" and try to abide by them. Next we have to admit we can't achieve perfection without His help. We make mistakes in various ways - and that is sin. When we sin, we (I) have to ask for forgiveness. To be perfect is a life-long process! (DRM 10/18/09)

5:4    and there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. 

    My first thought on this verse is: "do I do that?" and I think the answer is "no." Filthiness is probably swearing. I could be guilty of silly talk. Coarse jesting seems like dirty jokes - and I don't care for them. Finally, giving thanks is what I do many times a day. I pray that I am pleasing to God. (DRM 10/19/03)

5:5    For this you know with certainty, that no immoral or impure person or covetous man, who is an idolater, has an inheritance in the Kingdom of Christ and God. 

    Sometimes I think that I would fail this "entrance test" for Heaven. As a perfectionist, I always have a "goal" to be better. I pray that the Lord will understand my feelings and refer to Psalm 139:23,24. (DRM 9/24/2000)

    I have been told that a person can't discern who will be entering the Kingdom of God - as only God knows that. . . I disagree a little, based on this verse and similar ones.
    If a person is immoral and/or does not state pure thoughts, most likely he/she is NOT a believer. We are to set Christlike examples in our lives. (DRM 10/18/06)

5:6, 7    Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7Therefore do not be partakers with them;

    There are many deceivers in the world today. I first thought of religious cults that sound good, but have changed the Gospel to fit their agenda rather than taking God's Word as it was originally written. Other deceivers could include false prophets who are proven wrong after their prophecies don't come true (e.g. date setters).
    Verse seven seems to go with verse six even though it's the beginning of another sentence. When we know that a person is a false prophet or part of a cult, just keep away from them. Stay true to the true Word of God - the original Bible. (DRM 10/18/11)

5:8    for you were formerly darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light. . . 

    How am I different than before January 1986? Has the light given to me from the Lord shone through my life? Do others know I'm a Christian by my actions? Am I telling people of the Truth? Lord, I need more work! (DRM 9/25/2000)

5:9    (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth),

    Paul must have thought of this verse as an aside, but to me it is a reminder of His expectation of us. We Christians, as the fruit, must be good and righteous and tell the truth at all times. Am I good enough? Do people know I am a Christian by how I act? Do I tell ONLY the truth? 
    I will always need help - and need to improve! (DRM 10/20/03)

5:11, 12    And do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them; ¹²for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret.

    Television certainly isn't mentioned in the Bible, but think how this verse could relate to what is shown on TV today. Nothing is left to the imagination if you choose the "right" channel.
    As stated in this verse, we are directed to keep our lives pure and not polluted by these productions. I'm doing the best I can in this regard. (DRM 10/18/06)

5:13    But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light.

    Many sins are done in the dark. I can think of activities that many people do for "entertainment" on weekend nights. They seem to know that they are sinning by hiding the fact. Someday, a light (Jesus) will point to them and show them as they were. Judgment will come. (DRM 9/26/2000) 

5:13, 14    But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light. ¹⁴For this reason it says, "Awake sleeper, And arise from the dead, And Christ will shine on you."

    Sin is often considered darkness. It seems that a lot or most sin actually occurs during the dark part of the day.
    When exposed to physical or spiritual light, the sins are known and the person is convicted for their wrongdoing.
    Verse 14 seems to be directed to the unbeliever or the person in Christ that has sinned against Him.
    I pray that I'm not committing unknown (to me) sins. (DRM 10/19/09)

5:15, 16    Be very careful, then how you live - not as unwise, but as wise, ¹⁶making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.

    I am living in a world where I know very few believers in my faith. I must set a good example to try to live as Jesus wants me to , and in that way show others how different I am. (DRM 2/19/87)

    Recently a friend suggested verse 16 as a verse to apply to my life. I get easily diverted away from my desire to serve the Lord and constantly need correction. Lord, let me memorize and APPLY verse 16! (DRM 9/27/2000)

    [re: 5:16]    I have this verse posted on the light near my bed, as a friend suggested it on 8/28/00. I think of it as "don't waste time, it's too precious!" I only have so many days on earth - and they should all be used for leading others to Christ. Is what I'm doing today leading towards that goal? Don't be diverted. Keep the goal ahead of me. (DRM 10/21/03)

    I feel that I've been walking with little direction for 1½ years now - since I moved to Chicago. Still, I've done some things and just waited on the Lord. I need direction and want to make the most of my time remaining on earth. (DRM 10/19/06)

5:17    So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

    This is a nice, clear, simple verse? "The will of the Lord" or God's will has always been a challenge for me because I want it to be specific to "my" situation. God's will is easily known in general terms - as it's all in the Bible. The Ten Commandments is a good start. Avoid sins, proclaim His name in some way. Love one another. (DRM 10/20/09)

5:20    always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father;

    Now here's a verse that I have no problem with! Every morning and evening I try to thank the Lord for my health and being able to do what I can for Him. May my thankfulness never end! (DRM 9/28/2000)

5:25, 26    Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, ²⁶so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word,

    Jesus gave His life for the sins of the world; past, present and future. He had to do this from His love for His creation. He wouldn't have done that without love.
    Here we are told that the same love Jesus had, the husbands should also have for their wives - and that involves the sacrifice of self, just as Jesus did, as an example. (DRM 10/21/09)

5:27    that He (God) might present to Himself (Jesus) the church in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that she should be holy and blameless.

    We are the church, the bride of Christ. This verse indicates that the church will be "in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle." The only way the church today can be like this is by the common faith of true believers of Christ. The factions of the physical church are NOT helping this. The church needs unification. (DRM 9/30/2000)

5:28, 29    So husbands ought also to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself; ²⁹for no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ also does the church, 

    This gives me a better idea of Christ's love. I try very hard to keep my body healthy and want it to be strong. Maybe that's self-preservation? Still, I love the body God has given me. This verse(s) reminds me that I should love my wife in the same way - but also that Christ loves me like this. (DRM 10/22/03)

5:29,30    for no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ also does the church, ³⁰because we are members of His body. 

    Here is a great association! I care a lot about my body and try constantly to keep it well and in "good shape." Christ cares even more for His body, the church, and each member of it (me), in the same way. (DRM 10/1/2000)

5:33    Nevertheless let each individual among you also love his own wife even as himself; and let the wife see to it that she respect her husband.

    This seems to be a summary verse for the passage (5:22-33). Men are to love their wives, as Christ also loved the church (v. 25), just as they love their own bodies (v. 28). Both partners must become one (v. 31), and follow Jesus Christ as Lord together.
    I still wonder if God will ever let all this happen to me someday. (DRM 10/19/06)

6:2,3    HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER (which is the first commandment with a promise), ³THAT IT MAY BE WELL WITH YOU, AND THAT YOU MAY LIVE LONG ON THE EARTH.

    I try to do this as best as I can. Sometimes I lose patience, but father and I still "get along." Hopefully God will be pleased with (most) of my actions and will give me a long life to serve Him - unless the rapture comes first. (DRM 10/2/2000)

6:4    Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

    While my childhood was "restricted," neither of my parents provoked anger. We also were brought up to go to church every week and I was instructed about the contents of the Bible. In this way, I was brought up well. Still, I never knew Jesus as my personal Savior until much later. My "head knowledge" had to become "heart knowledge," and Bible teachers should emphasize that a personal commitment is necessary. (DRM 10/22/09)

6:5    Slaves, be obedient to those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in the sincerity of your heart, as to Christ;

    Most people think of slaves as black people who were owned by others before the US Civil War, but I can think of other types of slavery —Jesus' willingness to be a servant to others, and my working for my boss. The Lord wants us to do the best job possible - as if we are working for Him. (DRM 10/23/03)

    Some people would say that this section encourages slavery, but I don't think so. I think that Paul was just referring to slaves that were already in that position. Today I'd use a word like "employees" where "slaves" are written and it would make more sense.
    While slavery still exists, I'm glad that a large part of society has eliminated the practice. (DRM 10/20/06)

6:7,8    With good will render service, as to the Lord, and not to men, ⁸knowing that whatever good thing each one does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether slave or free.

    Do "good deeds" for others. God sees everything and knows everything. Good deeds will NOT bring salvation, but are acts of love to God and the one whom it is given to. May my good deeds increase, but make me humble Lord, NOT to look for glory - as it is all Yours. (DRM 10/3/2000)

6:10    Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.

    This is a transfer of power. The Lord Jesus is the One with the might and power and we are His workers. To be strong in the Lord is to appropriate His power for our daily situations. An example would be for me to run my business on Christian principles; not like others in the worldly system. (DRM 10/23/09)

6:11    Put on the full armor of God, that you may be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.

    We live in a material world. It's hard to think of spiritual beings or warfare - as we generally can't "see" it. But I think we can "see" it - in the way some people act. Sometimes Satan puts road blocks in our way when we want to serve the Lord Jesus - as an example. The pieces of armor in this passage show me how to defend myself against Satan and his demons. (DRM 10/20/06)

6:12    For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.

    The book "This Present Darkness" illustrates this verse very well. The unseen world of angels and demons is out there, but we don't see it. That's the enemy referred to here that I don't think about enough. (DRM 10/4/2000)

    The war rages! I don't think about it enough. It's the spiritual war that surrounds me! The little demons are quite determined to keep me from serving the living God. Barriers go up. I am diverted from the goal, but I know I must pursue His plan for my life - or I will never be fulfilled. (DRM 10/24/03)

6:13    Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand.

    I believe that the armor of God is the learning of His word. When the day of evil comes, or even evil people, we should be prepared to have the knowledge of God's word ready to speak and witness to His great power.  (DRM 3/7/87)

    When proclaiming the Gospel, there will be resistance and I will probably lose "friends." I will have to remember the real source of these problems and stand up for what is right. It won't be easy. (DRM 10/5/2000)

6:14    Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS,

    This is part of a series of verses on the "Armor of God."
    Truth is the Word of God; our Bible. The Lord wants us to be devoted totally to Him and to learn more about Him through daily Bible reading/study.
    Righteousness is like Christian living. As a follower of Jesus, we are to do things that He would approve of. Righteousness is progressive and is a life journey. We (I) don't become righteous overnight. (DRM 1/18/12)

6:18    With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints,

    Some people may ask how to "pray at all times"? I think the answer is to have pure thoughts, like having concern for others in physical need. You can pray with your eyes open and doing routine things, but thinking a prayer. Since God=Jesus knows my every thought, if possible, it should be considered a prayer to Him. I try to do this a lot! (DRM 10/24/09)

6:19,20    and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, ²⁰for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. 

    Paul is asking for prayer for himself here. Remembering that it is the Holy Spirit that convicts people, we have to depend on the Lord for the results. I pray that I will have people praying for me when I try to become more bold to tell people of Christ. (DRM 10/6/2000)

    [re: 6:19]    Certainly I pray this prayer for myself, however, like Paul, I need others to pray "on my behalf." Very few know the desires of my heart. People seem too busy to think about others. [I'm guilty also] Hopefully I will have a circle of friends soon. (DRM 10/25/03)

    [re: 6:19]    Certainly I'm not Paul, but his prayer request here would be almost the same as the prayer request I would ask for others concerning me.
    I don't know why I'm fearful of verbally proclaiming the gospel - people can and have ignored me before. It could be the fear of Satan's attacks. Whatever the reason - I still need boldness! (DRM 10/21/06)

6:22    And I have sent him (Tychicus) to you for this very purpose, so that you may know about us, and that he may comfort your hearts. 

    What was Tychicus's job? To tell people about the existence of the Christians and to comfort people. Isn't that evangelism? I am convinced that the Lord wants everyone to be an evangelist, but few "go." (DRM 10/7/2000)