What does Ephesians 5:8 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 5:8 emphasizes the transformation that occurs in a person when they become a follower of Jesus Christ. The metaphor "darkness" represents a previous life without the moral guidance or truth of God, a state of ignorance or sinfulness.

In contrast, "light" symbolizes knowledge, purity, and truth associated with God and His nature.

The admonition to "walk as children of light" is an exhortation to live in a way that reflects God's own holiness and truth.

This involves exhibiting goodness, righteousness, and truth in one's actions, which is reflective of the transformation that has taken place.

Historical Context

Ephesians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul around A.D. 60-62 while he was imprisoned in Rome. The recipients were mostly Gentile believers in Ephesus, a city noted for its idolatry and worship of the goddess Artemis.

The verse comes in the context of Paul's instruction on how Christians are to live distinctly from the culture around them, which was marked by moral darkness and pagan religious practices.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse encapsulates the doctrine of sanctification, which describes the process of becoming more like Christ.

It implies that there is an expected change in behavior and character of those who become Christians.

Calvinist interpretations might highlight the effectual calling and transformation that result from God's grace, while Arminian perspectives might emphasize human responsibility in choosing to walk in the light.

Liberation theology might see the light as the truth that leads to action against societal injustices.

Practical Applications

The teaching of this verse can be practically applied by encouraging believers to evaluate their lives and behaviors, ensuring they align with the teachings of the Bible.

It might be reflected in ethical decisions at work, the pursuit of justice, and the integrity of one's relationships.

The exhortation can also be applied in a communal sense, guiding the church to be a beacon of light in society.

Cross-References

• 1 John 1:6-7: "If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin."
• 2 Corinthians 6:14: "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?"
• John 8:12: "Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life."

Language Study

In the original Greek, "darkness" is "skotos," denoting not just physical darkness but also moral or spiritual obscurity.

"Light" is translated from "phos," which can convey both literal and figurative illumination.

"Walk" comes from "peripateo," which means to conduct one's life or behave. Each of these words carries a depth of meaning that enriches the understanding of the verse.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The theme of light versus darkness is common in many ancient myths and religions, representing the duality and contrast between good and evil, knowledge and ignorance, or life and death.

For instance, in Zoroastrianism, the battle between light (Ahura Mazda) and darkness (Ahriman) features prominently.

In these contexts, Ephesians 5:8 can be seen as a part of the broader human narrative that uses light as a symbol for divinity and moral righteousness.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, light is essential for life and visibility.

While this verse speaks of spiritual light, the analogy can be supported by the life-giving properties of physical light.

Photosynthesis, for instance, requires light to generate nourishment for plants, which is foundational to the food chain.

This parallels spiritual light's necessity for spiritual growth and nourishment.

Commentaries

Various biblical commentaries offer insights into Ephesians 5:8:

• Matthew Henry's Commentary speaks of a stark contrast between the Christian's past and present state and the necessity of saints to manifest their new nature in their conduct.
• The Expositor's Bible Commentary notes the Pauline theme of ethical living in accordance with one's calling as a Christian, emphasizing the fruit of light mentioned in the subsequent verse (5:9).
• John MacArthur highlights the totality of the transformation from darkness to light and the radical change in behavior and thinking that should accompany it.