SCRIPTURE: Ephesians 5:21-6:9
OBSERVATIONS
1. (vv.21) This whole section is an expansion of the theme verse, “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” Paul explains how wives, husbands, children, fathers, slaves and masters do this. Yes, even fathers and masters are to submit to those entrusted to them, out of reverence for Christ!
APPLICATION: Why do we separate v.21 from the rest of this section (see NIV), when it is clearly a new thought from v.20, and ties in with Paul’s commands in the section that follows?
2. (vv.22-33) When understood as a mission from God to go beneath someone for their well-being and honour, sub (under) mission (to be sent) is not a nastyu word, but a holy calling. This is just another way of affirming Jesus’ call to be a servant (John 13:12-17).
APPLICATION: Do I think of my position as father, husband and church leader as a calling to submit? We have spent far too long telling others to submit, instead of doing it ourselves. Jesus says I will be blessed if I do it, not demand it!
3. (vv.1-9) The purpose of submission (as shown by Jesus) is to serve, help, bless, rescue, save those that we are sent to serve. The world celebrates authority and power, but Christ-followers (whatever their social standing – wives, husbands, children, fathers, slaves and masters) are to celebrate humility and servanthood (see Mark 10:42-45).
APPLICATION: How do I serve my children, and yet remain responsible and provide firm, loving discipline? I need to be very certain that what I am doing does not violate their personhood, that whatever discipline that I do give comes from humility and not from anger (as is so often the case).
PRAYER:
Lord, You submitted Yourself to me to save me, and daily You exercise Your headship over me by lovingly serving me. Forgive me for being so demanding, and help me to imitate Your servant heart! Amen.
Verse 21 reminds me of the text, as far as it depends upon you, live at peace with all mankind. In all my relationships, I need to show the love of Christ – in my marriage to my wife, in my family to my children, in the workplace or in all my other relationships. Serve the Lord wholeheartedly. I am not my own, but the Lord God has purchased me so that I may serve Him in all areas of life. Christ has shown the way and I too need to be the example of the Light of Christ Jesus within me. I must promote His glory and power as I live for Jesus fulfilling my duties to those around me.
Make me a blessing, make me a blessing;
Out of my life may Jesus shine.
Make me a blessing, O Saviour I pray,
Make me a blessing to someone today.