What does Ephesians 6:7 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 6:7 exhorts readers to perform their service with a good will, as if they were doing it for the Lord rather than for human masters.

This verse is part of a larger section in which the Apostle Paul addresses the relationships between slaves and their masters, framing this relationship within Christian ethics.

The literal meaning is a call to work wholeheartedly and with integrity, regardless of who the earthly beneficiary of the work is.

On a deeper level, the verse speaks to the attitude and spiritual perspective that should accompany the work of believers, suggesting that the ultimate service and dedication are to God, transcending human supervisors.

Historical Context

This verse is set within the context of first-century Roman Empire, during which slavery was a common institution in society.

The Ephesian church, to whom the Apostle Paul wrote, lived within this socio-economic framework.

Paul addresses various household relationships in the latter part of his letter, from husbands and wives to parents and children, and finally, slaves and masters.

While the modern reader may find the topic uncomfortable, for Paul's original audience, such instructions would have been relevant and necessary for everyday life. Paul does not condone slavery but instead aims to infuse existing relationships with Christian virtues.

Theological Insights

Theologically, Ephesians 6:7 echoes other biblical principles, such as working for God’s glory (1 Corinthians 10:31) and doing everything with love (Colossians 3:23-24).

From a Christian perspective, this verse transforms the mundane or oppressive aspects of work into offerings that are pleasing to God.

The concept of serving "as to the Lord," elevates the believer's perspective, placing God as the chief recipient of one’s labors.

Protestant Viewpoint

Many Protestant theologians emphasize the concept of vocation or calling, asserting that all types of work are sacred to God when performed in His name and for His glory.

Catholic Viewpoint

The Catholic tradition may highlight the redemptive nature of work, aligning it with the theology of "Opus Dei" (the work of God) wherein every action can become an act of grace and worship.

Orthodox Viewpoint

The Orthodox theological tradition often stresses the sacramental nature of everyday life and work, seeing in every task , however humble , an opportunity for participating in divine grace through faithfulness.

Practical Applications

Ephesians 6:7 has several practical applications:

• It challenges individuals to work with integrity and dedication regardless of their position in life or the nature of their tasks.
• It encourages a positive work ethic, even in situations where earthly rewards or recognition might be lacking.
• It provides a framework for transforming routine or difficult tasks into spiritual service and worship.
• It offers comfort to those in difficult work situations, offering a higher purpose for their labor.

Cross-References

• Colossians 3:23-24: "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ."
• 1 Corinthians 10:31: "Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God."
• 1 Peter 2:18: "Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, key words in Ephesians 6:7 include:

• "Good will" (εὐνοίᾳ, eunoia): Often meaning benevolence or goodwill, suggesting an inner disposition of kindness.
• "Doing service" (δουλεύοντες, douleuontes): Relates to the act of serving or working, commonly associated with the role of a servant or slave.
• "As to the Lord" (ὡς τῷ Κυρίῳ, hōs tō Kyriō): Implies a comparison or direct relationship to doing something for the Lord Himself.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the wider cultural and religious landscape of the ancient world, it was common for ethicists and philosophers to offer guidance on the role of servants and masters.

Stoicism, for instance, emphasized the inner freedom and moral duty of individuals regardless of their social status.

In comparison, Christianity introduced a radical redefinition of work as service to God, democratizing the value of labor and offering spiritual significance to all work, not just that done by the so-called elite or free citizens.

Scientific Perspectives

Though Ephesians 6:7 is not directly related to scientific perspectives, research in psychology can affirm the positive effects of working with purpose and integrity.

Studies show that job satisfaction and overall well-being can increase when individuals find meaning and a sense of higher purpose in their work.

Commentaries

Commentators on Ephesians often stress that Paul's intention was neither to reform the prevailing social order of the day nor to enforce it, but rather to permeate it with the principles of Christian conduct.

Matthew Henry's Commentary emphasizes the importance of sincerity in serving, as well as doing it with a good will, making the Lord the ultimate Master in every service.

John Stott, in his commentary on Ephesians, observes that rendering service "as to the Lord" is a matter of Christian discipleship that turns every work into ministry.

Contemporary theologians continue to explore ways in which believers can live out their faith in diverse workplace contexts, guided by passages like Ephesians 6:7.