What does Ephesians 5:13 mean?

Ephesians 5:13 states, "But everything exposed by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light." This verse is part of a broader passage where the Apostle Paul is exhorting the believers in Ephesus to live as children of light, contrasting their new life in Christ with their former ways of darkness. To fully understand Ephesians 5:13, it is essential to consider its context within the chapter and the broader themes of the epistle.

Paul’s letter to the Ephesians is rich with theological depth and practical instruction. In Chapter 5, Paul begins by urging the believers to be imitators of God and to live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us (Ephesians 5:1-2). He contrasts this life of love with behaviors that are incompatible with the Christian walk, such as sexual immorality, impurity, and greed (Ephesians 5:3-5). He warns against empty words and reminds the believers that they were once darkness but are now light in the Lord, urging them to live as children of light (Ephesians 5:6-8).

In verses 11-14, Paul elaborates on the concept of light and darkness, urging the believers to have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness but rather to expose them. It is in this context that we find Ephesians 5:13. Paul writes, "But everything exposed by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light."

To understand this verse, we need to unpack the imagery of light and darkness that Paul uses. Light and darkness are common biblical metaphors. Light often symbolizes truth, holiness, and the presence of God, while darkness represents sin, ignorance, and separation from God. In the Gospel of John, Jesus is described as the "light of the world" (John 8:12), and those who follow Him are called to walk in the light.

When Paul speaks of everything being exposed by the light, he is referring to the revealing nature of truth and righteousness. The light exposes the true nature of things, making visible what was hidden in darkness. This exposure can lead to conviction and repentance, as people see their actions in the light of God’s truth. Sin thrives in secrecy and darkness, but when it is brought into the light, it loses its power.

The second part of the verse, "everything that is illuminated becomes a light," suggests a transformative process. Not only does the light reveal and expose, but it also has the power to transform. When a person or deed is illuminated by the light of Christ, it is not only revealed for what it truly is but also has the potential to reflect that light. This reflects the transformative power of the Gospel. When individuals come to Christ, they are not only forgiven and cleansed but are also called to be lights in the world, reflecting the light of Christ to others.

In practical terms, Paul is encouraging the Ephesians to live lives that reflect the light of Christ. This involves both personal holiness and a commitment to truth. By living as children of light, believers expose the darkness around them, not through judgmentalism but through the contrast of their lives. Their integrity, love, and righteousness make visible the shortcomings of a life lived apart from God. Furthermore, their lives can illuminate the way for others, leading them to the light of Christ.

This concept is echoed in other parts of Scripture. In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus tells His disciples, "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Here, the emphasis is on the visible nature of a life lived in the light and the impact it has on others.

The idea of transformation through exposure to the light is also found in 2 Corinthians 3:18, where Paul writes, "And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." The light of Christ not only reveals but also transforms, making believers more like Him.

In summary, Ephesians 5:13 highlights the dual role of light in the believer’s life: revelation and transformation. As followers of Christ, we are called to live in the light, allowing the truth of God’s Word to expose and cleanse us from sin. In doing so, our lives become a testimony to others, reflecting the light of Christ and leading them out of darkness. This process of exposure and transformation is ongoing, as we continually seek to grow in holiness and reflect the character of Christ more fully.

Paul’s exhortation to the Ephesians is as relevant today as it was in the first century. In a world where darkness often seems to prevail, the call to live as children of light is both a challenge and a privilege. By embracing the light of Christ and allowing it to transform us, we can make a profound impact on the world around us, shining as beacons of hope and truth in a darkened world.