Ephesians 5:6–21—An exhortation to walk as wise men who understand the will of God.
In this section of our reading from the book of Ephesians, St Paul continues his instruction of how we ought to live. Since Christ has made us His own, and, since, by Word and Sacrament, we have eaten the living Bread that comes down from heaven, we ought to walk, not as unwise, but as wise.
We ought not to allow ourselves to be deceived by charlatans masquerading as men of God; we ought not to take part in the sins that the world takes pleasure in; we ought, rather, make the best use of time, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Because the days are evil, Christians are to make most of the time that remains before the end and the return of Christ. The wise will understand the will of God in terms of right living in a broken world. Christians are to be willed not with alcohol but with the Spirit. They will not carouse as drunkards but celebrate by praising with singing and thanking God.
Paul urges us to make the “most” of our time. Many are content to just get by. We have a neutral attitude of “live and let live.” We go through life content with second best. The time is short. There is a world to save. A Christian dare not be satisfied with anything less than the best. Each Christian covets Jesus saying to him/her, ”She/he has done what he/she could.” 1
Collect for Proper 15: Almighty God, whom to know is everlasting life, grant us to know Your Son, Jesus, to be the way, the truth, and the life, that we may steadfastly follow His steps in the way that leads to life eternal; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen 2
Sources:
Luther’s Seal copyright © Ed Riojas, Higher Things
1. Lectionary Preaching Workbook Series B, John Brokhoff © 1981 CSS Publishing, Lima, OH
2. Collect for Proper 15, Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis
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