What is the meaning of Ephesians 5:15-21?

Ephesians 5:15-21 is a passage that offers profound guidance on Christian living, emphasizing wisdom, the Spirit-filled life, and mutual submission among believers. To understand its meaning, we must delve into the context of the entire letter to the Ephesians, the specific instructions given in these verses, and their application to our lives today.

The Apostle Paul wrote the letter to the Ephesians to encourage and instruct the believers in Ephesus. The overarching theme of Ephesians is the unity of the church as the body of Christ and the practical outworking of this unity in the lives of believers. Ephesians 5:15-21 falls within a section where Paul is giving practical advice on how to live as children of light (Ephesians 5:8).

Paul begins this passage with an exhortation to be careful in how we live: "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil" (Ephesians 5:15-16, NIV). Here, Paul contrasts wisdom and foolishness, urging believers to live wisely. Wisdom in the biblical sense is not merely intellectual knowledge but involves living in accordance with God's will. The "days are evil" refers to the present age, marked by moral and spiritual challenges. Thus, Paul calls for vigilance and intentionality in our walk with Christ, making the most of every opportunity to reflect God's light in a dark world.

In verse 17, Paul further clarifies what it means to live wisely: "Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is." Understanding the Lord's will is central to Christian wisdom. This involves discerning God's desires and commands as revealed in Scripture and through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is a call to align our lives with God's purposes, rather than being swayed by the fleeting and often deceptive values of the world.

Paul then contrasts being filled with the Spirit with being drunk on wine: "Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit" (Ephesians 5:18). This contrast is significant. Drunkenness represents a loss of control and a surrender to destructive behaviors, whereas being filled with the Spirit signifies being under the influence and guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Greek verb translated as "be filled" (πληροῦσθε, plērousthe) is in the present continuous tense, indicating an ongoing process. Thus, being filled with the Spirit is not a one-time event but a continual, daily surrender to the Spirit's influence in our lives.

Verses 19-21 describe the results of being filled with the Spirit: "speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." These verses highlight three key aspects of the Spirit-filled life: worship, gratitude, and mutual submission.

First, Spirit-filled believers engage in worship through "psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit." This communal aspect of worship strengthens the bond among believers and glorifies God. Singing and making music from the heart signifies genuine, heartfelt worship, not mere external ritual. Worship is a vital expression of our relationship with God and a means of edifying the church.

Second, a Spirit-filled life is marked by continual gratitude: "always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Gratitude is a recognition of God's sovereignty and goodness in all circumstances. It reflects a heart that trusts in God's providence and acknowledges His blessings. The phrase "for everything" indicates that this gratitude is not limited to favorable circumstances but encompasses all aspects of life, trusting that God works all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).

Third, mutual submission is a hallmark of the Spirit-filled community: "Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." This principle of mutual submission is rooted in our reverence for Christ, who exemplified ultimate humility and servanthood. Submission here is not about hierarchy or domination but about putting others' needs and interests above our own, reflecting Christ's love and humility (Philippians 2:3-8). It is a call to selfless love and service within the body of Christ.

In summary, Ephesians 5:15-21 calls believers to live wisely by understanding and aligning with God's will, being continually filled with the Holy Spirit, and expressing this Spirit-filled life through worship, gratitude, and mutual submission. These verses offer a profound vision of Christian community, where believers are united in their devotion to God and their love for one another, reflecting the light of Christ in a dark world. As we seek to live out these principles, may we continually rely on the Holy Spirit's guidance and empowerment, embodying the wisdom and love of Christ in all we do.