Ephesians 5:7-14 — Walk as Children of Light

Ephesians 5:7–14 — Walk as Children of Light

Once again, the Apostle Paul brings the idea of darkness as he had done in the previous Chapter. He gives a command not to "be partaker with" the son of disobedience (Ephesians 5:7). The reason is that believers have been changed; they have a new identity. The believers are now "children of light" and they ought to walk like it. The Gentiles, on the other hand, had "their understanding darkened" (Ephesians 4:18), consequently, they do that which is "shameful" producing "unfruitful works of darkness" (Ephesians 5:11-12).

After asking the Ephesians not to be involved with the children of darkness, he asks them not to get involved with the "unfruitful works of darkness" (5:11). He also asks them to expose these works. These works are exposed through the children of light because, by its nature, light shows the true character of works (5:13). This passage delineates two key differences between works of darkness versus light. Works of darkness (1) are done in secret because they are shameful while the work of light is acceptable to the Lord, and (2) are unfruitful while the work of light is goodness, righteousness, and truth. It is interesting though that goodness, righteousness, and truth are characterized as "fruit." This means they are not a set of prerequisites to gaining God's acceptance. Rather, they are the by-product of being in Christ.

Are you walking as a child of light?
Is there anything in your life that you are doing in secret that you would be ashamed of? Bring it to the light.