Ephesians 4
OGCTHE SECOND HALF OF EPHESIANS
The second half of Ephesians is mostly exhortation to us to fulfill our DUTIES in the church. There are some passages of doctrine included (for example, Ephesians 5:25-32), but it is primarily an exhortation to duties.
The first three Chapter s told of the glorious DOCTRINES of the church: our priceless blessings, the marvelous mystery of Christ, and other doctrines. It is never enough merely to know and believe the doctrines of the church. We must obey and live by that which we learn. Paul, after telling us of the doctrines of the church at length, now says, Therefore, and goes on to exhort us to do certain things. Ours is a therefore religion. God has given us many favors. THEREFORE we have certain responsibilities in return.
Previewing in Outline Form (Ephesians 4:1-32; Ephesians 5:1-33; Ephesians 6:1-20)
II.
DUTIES Ephesians 4:1-32; Ephesians 5:1-33; Ephesians 6:1-20.
A.
Keep the unity of the Spirit. Ephesians 4:1-16.
Walk worthily of your calling. Ephesians 4:1-3.
Unity of the Spirit described. Ephesians 4:4-6.
Unity is served by a diversity of gifts. Ephesians 4:7-16.
B.
Walk as becometh saints. Ephesians 4:17-32; Ephesians 5:1-20.
Walk not as the Gentiles walk. Ephesians 4:17-24.
Seven practical exhortations. Ephesians 4:25-32; Ephesians 5:1-2.
Walk as children of light. Ephesians 5:3-14.
Walk as wise men. Ephesians 5:15-20.
C.
Subject yourselves one to another. Ephesians 5:21-33; Ephesians 6:1-9.
The command. Ephesians 5:21.
Wives and husbands. Ephesians 5:22-33.
Children and fathers. Ephesians 6:1-4.
Slaves and masters. Ephesians 6:5-9.
D.
Put on the whole armor of God. Ephesians 6:10-20.
Exhortation to be strengthened. Ephesians 6:10-13.
The armor described. Ephesians 6:14-17.
Exhortation to prayer. Ephesians 6:18-20.
Fact Questions
What is the word that describes the contents of the second half of Ephesians?
What are the four duties (A, B, C, D) listed in the outline? Give the Scripture limitations of each.
**EPHESIANS FOUR DUTIES OF CHURCH MEMBERES
KEEP THE UNITY OF THE SPIRIT; **Ephesians 4:1-16
a.
WALK WORTHILY, Ephesians 4:1-3
b.
UNITY OF THE SPIRIT CONSISTS OF ONE BODY, SPIRIT, HOPE, LORD, FAITH, BAPTISM, GOD; Ephesians 4:4-6
c.
UNITY AIDED BY A DIVERSITY OF GIFTS, Ephesians 4:7-16
**2.
WALK AS BECOMETH SAINTS: **Ephesians 4:17-32; Ephesians 5:1-20
a.
WALK NOT AS GENTILES WALK
(1)
GENTILE WALK, Ephesians 4:17-19
(2)
CHRISTIAN WALK, Ephesians 4:20-24
b.
PRACTICAL EXHORTATIONS, Ephesians 4:25-32; Ephesians 5:1-2
NO UNITY POSSIBLE UNLESS BOUND TOGETHER BY PEACE!
Keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
**
Ephesians 4:1-16
Previewing in Outline Form (Ephesians 4:1-16)
II.
Duties. Ephesians 4:1-32; Ephesians 5:1-33; Ephesians 6:1-20.
A.
Keep the unity of the Spirit. Ephesians 4:1-16.
Walk worthily of your calling. Ephesians 4:1-3.
a.
With lowliness and meekness. Ephesians 4:2.
b.
With longsuffering.
c.
Forbearing one another in love.
d.
Giving diligence to keep the unity of the Spirit, Ephesians 4:3.
Unity of the Spirit described. Ephesians 4:4-6.
a.
One body.
b.
One Spirit.
c.
One hope.
d.
One Lord.
e.
One faith.
f.
One baptism.
g.
One God.
Unity is served by a diversity of gifts. Ephesians 4:7-16.
a.
Christ has given different gifts to each one. Ephesians 4:7-11.
(1)
This is proved by a prophecy. Ephesians 4:8-10.
(2)
The different gifts listed. Ephesians 4:11.
b.
Purposes of the gifts. Ephesians 4:12.
(1)
For the perfecting of the saints.
The perfected saints devote themselves to the work of ministering.
(2)
For the building up of the body of Christ.
c.
Objectives to be reached by the gifts. Ephesians 4:13-16.
(1)
Unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God. Ephesians 4:13.
(2)
Unto a full-grown man.
(3)
Unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ. Ephesians 4:13-16.
(a)
We are not to remain children. Ephesians 4:14.
1
Children are tossed about.
2
Children are carried about by every wind of doctrine.
(b)
We are to grow up into Christ. Ephesians 4:15-16.
1
Speaking the truth in love.
2
Grow up in all things.
3 Christ is the head.
From Christ all the body working together makes the increase of the body. Ephesians 4:16.
**Text (Ephesians 4:1)
I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beseech you to walk worthily of the calling wherewith ye were called.
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:1)**
Is it sufficient to know the doctrines of Christ, without living a transformed life?
What is the walk of a Christian?
What is God’s calling by which we were called?
What type of a life is worthy of our calling?
Paraphrase
On account of the impelling force in the glorious doctrines of the church, I Paul, the prisoner in the Lord, exhort and beseech you to live in a manner that will be worthy of the gospel, that glorious calling by which you were called.
Notes (Ephesians 4:1)
Paul mentions that he was the prisoner in the Lord. Paul was blessed (happy) in suffering. He was more blessed for being in bonds for the Lord’s cause than for having once been caught up into Paradise (2 Corinthians 12:3; 2 Corinthians 12:7). The word prisoner used here (and in Ephesians 3:1) designates one in bonds.
Christian living is not done because a stern and specific law demands it. Rather, Paul beseeches (exhorts, or stands by calling) us to live the proper kind of life. The law of God must be written in our hearts, not just on the law books. When it is written in our hearts, we will do the will of God even when we will not be seen by our fellow men.
Paul wanted us to marry in the Lord (1 Corinthians 7:39), rejoice in the Lord (Philippians 3:1), and, if need be, to go to prison in the Lord.
The adverb worthily comes from an adjective meaning having the same weight; of like value. In the balances of life our walk (or daily manner of life) should be of the same weight as our calling.
Our calling (or vocation) refers to the Gospel by which God has called us (2 Thessalonians 2:14). Certainly the gospel is good, noble, and undefiled. Our daily walk must be of like value with the Gospel by which we have been called, The Christian life is often described as a walk (Romans 6:4; 2 Corinthians 5:7; Galatians 5:16; Ephesians 2:2; Philippians 3:18; Colossians 1:10).
Fact Questions
By what are we called?
What is the walk of the Christian?
How is our walk to compare with our calling?
**Text (Ephesians 4:2-3)
2 with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; 3 giving diligence to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:2-3)**
Why shouldn-’t Christians have an attitude of superiority?
What does it mean to forbear one another?
How far should the Christian go in putting up with the shortcomings of others?
Can Christians have unity without working for it?
Are Christians to devise methods to produce unity, or to preserve the unity provided for them?
Can we have unity without peace?
Paraphrase
In order to live (or walk) in a manner worthy of our noble calling we must have a humble opinion of ourselves and a gentle disposition toward others, We need furthermore to exercise great patience in giving vent to anger, supporting one another in the miseries and shortcomings of life, because we are ruled by love and not by personal ambition;
Giving haste and attention as we seek to walk worthily, to keep that unity of the church which the Holy Spirit has provided. This unity can only be had when the members of the body are tied together by the bond of peace.
Notes (Ephesians 4:2-3)
These verses hint that personal differences and strains are constantly being felt within the church. Out in the world there are certainly strains, divisions, and contentions nation against nation, capital against labor, race against race, North against South, etc. In the church, God is seeking to bring all things under one head, Christ (Ephesians 1:10). In order for this to be done, those in the church must be most careful about how they feel and act toward their brethren.
Lowliness is a humble opinion of oneself, a deep sense of moral littleness. We need this attitude because we are all sinful, and really know so very little.
Meekness is that characteristic and attitude that grows out of lowliness. It is mildness or gentleness. Meekness is not weakness. Moses was the meekest of men (Numbers 12:3), but he certainly was no sissy.
Longsuffering is patience, control of anger, endurance, slowness in avenging wrongs.
To forbear is to hold up, sustain, or support. The attitude that we can push others down to exalt ourselves is not the attitude of love. We must forbear the shortcomings and imperfections of others, because we are ruled by love. We may teach, reprove, or correct those who have shortcomings, but in doing it, we need to demonstrate the patience and forbearance of love.
It is not easy to keep unity. We must endeavor (or, literally, give haste) to preserve it. It must be worked at. Unity is the design of God for all the universe (Ephesians 1:10; Ephesians 2:15). Those who please God must promote unity.
However, we cannot create unity, nor methods of unity. A divine unity is granted to the church. When men are in Christ, they are automatically one with all others who are in Christ, unless they make divisions by joining denominations organized by men. Two souls who are in Christ will flow together as two drops of water. They will have fellowship with one another unless some barrier is created between them. All barriers are of men, not of God.
There is nothing to be gained by creating councils of denominations. We are only to keep or guard the unity that has been supplied to the church by the Holy Spirit. We shun and oppose all human teachings, inventions, and denominations as being causes of division, stumbling, and discord.
To divide the spiritual body of Christ is as cruel a crime against God and man as it is to pierce the fleshly body of Jesus with a spear. (David Lipscomb)
The unity of the Spirit is that unity which the Holy Spirit provided when He established the church. It is a Spirit-led kind of unity. When the church had this type of unity, it was all of one heart and soul (Acts 4:32).
The phrase, unity of the Spirit, does not hint that there is some unseen spiritual unity between the divisions of the church. We cannot have spiritual unity when external divisions exist, for these divisions are evidence of a lack of internal unity. If unity is not visible, and cannot be demonstrated outwardly, it does not exist.
In the bond of peace; A bond is something which binds together, a band. Peace is the bond which ties the unity of the Spirit together. It is not possible for unity to exist where there is enmity or discord. Nothing good can happen where fighting is going on (James 3:16; James 3:18).
Fact Questions
What three characteristics must we have to walk worthily of our calling (Ephesians 4:2)?
In what are we to forbear one another?
Describe the kind of unity indicated by the phrase unity of the Spirit.
Is it necessary to invent methods of achieving unity? Why or why not?
In what bond are we to keep the unity of the Spirit?
**DUTIES
UNKNOWN AND NEGLECTED BY MOST CHURCH MEMBERS**
**KEEP THE UNITY OF THE SPIRIT, **Ephesians 4:1-16
**WALK AS BECOMETH SAINTS, **Ephesians 4:17-32; Ephesians 5:1-20
**SUBJECT YOURSELVES ONE TO ANOTHER, **Ephesians 5:21-33; Ephesians 6:1-9
**PUT ON THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD, **Ephesians 6:10-20
**Text (Ephesians 4:4)
4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as also ye were called in one hope of your calling
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:4)**
What is the one body?
How should the fact that there is only one body, one Spirit, etc., affect our relationships toward our brethren?
Does the one hope of the Christian consist of the hope of making this present world a better place?
Paraphrase
The unity of the Spirit which we are to keep consists of seven unities: (1) one body, the church of Christ; (2) one Spirit, the Holy Spirit; and, just as there is only one body and Spirit, so also (3) ye were called in only one hope of your calling. This one hope rests upon the grace that is to be brought to us when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven.
Notes (Ephesians 4:4)
Note that the words there is at the beginning of Eph 4:4 are in italics, which indicates that they are not in the original Greek text, but are supplied into the English version for clarity and smoothness. Notice how verses three and four read when the there is is omitted: Keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, one body, and one Spirit This plainly indicates that the unity of the Spirit consists in maintaining the seven unities of Eph 4:4-6.
All the divisions of the religious world Christian, professed Christian, and non-Christian are a result of violation of one or more of these seven unities. Instead of preserving the one body, men have created a multitude of denominations. Instead of clinging to the one hope, many have set their hope upon this world only. The social gospel places most of its hope upon making this sin-cursed world perfect.
The plea for one body is not a plea for denominational union or federation, since there were no denominations in Paul’s time.
The one body is the church of Christ (Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 3:15; 1 Corinthians 12:13). Christ has only one church. We can all be one body if we will accept and abide by God’s Word as our only authority, and if we will receive and recognize as brothers all who are truly saved, and if membership in any one church (assembly or congregation) is recognized as sufficient qualification for membership in any other congregation.
The one Spirit is the Holy Spirit.
The one hope of the Christian has always rested upon the return of Christ and the blessings of the future life (Titus 2:13; 1 Peter 1:13). Set your hope perfectly on the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable (1 Corinthians 15:19). The corruption in the nature of sinners is not taken away by giving them sufficient food, clothing, shelter, and entertainment. The curse which God pronounced on the earth and man when Adam sinned (thorns, death, pain, labor, sweat, suffering, etc.) shall not be removed until the end of time (Revelation 22:3). The future does not look good, according to God’s Word (2 Timothy 3:1-6; 2 Peter 3:3; Matthew 24:37-39). Social progress is pleasant and desirable, but social progress has not kept our crime rate from climbing, nor will it ever make this world a paradise.
Fact Questions
What relationship does the unity of. the Spirit have to the seven ones of Ephesians 4:4-6?
What does the one hope of the Christian rest upon?
**Text (Ephesians 4:5-6)
5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all, and through all, and in all.
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:5-6)**
Did Paul have the question of sprinkling, pouring, or immersion in mind when he said, There is one baptism?
Is it correct to speak of interfaith activities? Why or why not?
Why should the fact that there is only one God make us to be united as Christians?
How can God be the Father of all when multitudes are the children of the Devil?
Paraphrase
The unity of the Spirit further consists of these unities: (4) the one Lord, Jesus Christ; (5) one faith, the Gospel; and (6) one baptism, immersion in water in the name of the Lord Jesus, that baptism which is the common experience of all the church.
And the grand apex of the seven unities that together make up the unity of the Spirit is the truth that (7) there is one God and Father of all, who is high above all things, but yet through all, and in all things. We must therefore be united, for we are all of one family, all brothers, children of one father.
Notes (Ephesians 4:5-6)
The one Lord is Jesus Christ. He is Lord of all. (Compare Acts 10:36; Acts 2:38; Romans 10:12; Matthew 28:18.) No pope, prophet, teacher, editor, elder, preacher, reformer, president, or any other man has authority to act as Lord of the church.
The one faith does not refer to the act of believing, but to the body of doctrines which we believe. The one faith is the Gospel. Philippians 1:27 speaks of those who were striving together for THE FAITH of the gospel. See also Jude 1:3. It is not scriptural to speak of many faiths or interfaith activities, as many do.
When speaking of the one baptism, Paul could not have had in mind the question of pouring, or sprinkling, or immersion. Only immersion was practiced in the time of the apostles. The earliest case of sprinkling for baptism on record is that of Novation in 251 A.D., who was baptized upon his bed while sick by pouring a large quantity of water over him. According to the historians, immersion was nearly the universal practice until the Middle Ages when the Roman Catholic church declared at the Council of Ravenna (1311) that immersion and sprinkling were of equal validity.
Paul was certainly not referring to Holy Spirit baptism as the one baptism that was the common experience of the church. Baptism in the Holy Spirit was a most exceptional experience. On the day of Pentecost the apostles were baptized in the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:5; Acts 2:4). About ten years later, at the house of Cornelius, Peter saw the Holy Spirit fall on Cornelius and his household. In telling about this, Peter said that the Holy Spirit fell on them, as on us at the beginning. Then remembered I the word of the Lord how that he had said, John indeed baptized with water, but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit (Acts 11:15-16). These are the only cases of Holy Spirit baptism recorded in the Bible. The experiences of those who claim to have received the baptism in the Holy Spirit in modern times are so contradictory that no confidence can be placed in them.
If there is only one baptism, surely there ought not be any disagreement as to how it is to be performed, or in what it is done.
The Christian believes as firmly as does the Jew or Mohammedan that there is ONE God. However, the Christian accepts the profound revelation which God has given about Himself, namely that although He is one God, yet there are three perfectly harmonious identities within that one God: the Father, the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit.
God is called the Father of all in verse six, because He is the Father of all by creation. Of course, He is not the spiritual Father of sinners, and they cannot claim His blessings (John 8:44).
God is over all. He is supreme, high above all material and sinful things. God says, I dwell in the high and holy place (Isaiah 57:15).
God is through all. He is so omnipotent and powerful that He can do all things. No barriers limit His power.
God is in all. His power energizes the atoms of all creation. He dwells not only in the high and holy place, but also with him that is of a contrite and humble spirit (Isaiah 57:15).
Since there is only one body, spirit, etc., Christians ought to be knit together as one. Being united by God upon these seven things is such a solid basis for unity that it ought to hold Christians together in spite of everything that tends to divide them.
Fact Questions
Who is the one Lord?
What is the one faith?
Why cannot the one baptism be Holy Spirit baptism?
Why cannot the teaching of one baptism have had reference to the question of sprinkling, pouring, or immersion?
In what three relationships does God stand to all things?
Quote Ephesians 4:4-6 from memory.
The Unity of the Spirit
**Text (Ephesians 4:7)
7 But unto each one of us was the grace given according to the measure of the gift of Christ.
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:7)**
How can we be one body in Christ when each of us is so different?
Who has given the various special gifts, talents, and abilities to each of us?
Paraphrase
But, though there is one body, one spirit, etc., each one of us has received a different outpouring of grace by being given different gifts. These gifts have been given according to the way that Christ Himself saw fit to measure them out to each one.
Notes (Ephesians 4:7)
This verse begins a new section in the discussion about keeping the unity of the Spirit. It still deals with unity (see Ephesians 4:13), but takes up a new phase of the subject, namely the fact that unity is served, not hindered, by a diversity of individual gifts.
There are the seven items upon which the Holy Spirit has united the church Ephesians 4:4-6). Although we are united upon these seven matters, each of us is different because we have received different gifts. This diversity of gifts will not cause us to be disunited if each uses his own gift without envying others. Actually the difference in gifts helps, not hinders, in the work of perfecting the saints and building up the church.
The grace mentioned in this verse refers to particular gifts and abilities which Christ has given. Probably the primary reference is to the offices mentioned in Ephesians 4:12, and such miraculous gifts as are described in 1 Corinthians 12:8-10. But the grace probably also refers to the different abilities of Christians, because the gifts are described as being given to each one of us, and certainly not everyone received miraculous gifts or offices.
The grace (or gifts) is said to be given according to the measure of the gift of Christ. He knows what gifts we can use the most effectively. The word gift here signifies a gratuity or expression of favor. Christ always gives bountifully and graciously.
The gift of Christ does not here refer to God’s gift of His Son for us (John 3:16), but to Christ’s own gracious bestowal of gifts to us. This is indicated by the next verse, Ephesians 4:8.
Inasmuch as the gifts bestowed upon us come from Christ and the Holy Spirit, we should therefore find no harmful overlapping, no insufficiency in any necessary works, and no contradictions, for the Holy Spirit is never at odds with Himself.
Fact Questions
To what does the word grace refer in Ephesians 4:7?
What effect does the fact that Christians have received differing gifts have upon their unity?
According to what measure has grace been dispensed to each one?
**Text (Ephesians 4:8)
8 Wherefore he saith, when he ascended on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:8)**
Who is it that has ascended on high?
What is the captivity which was taken captive? Can you think of anything (or any things) which holds men captive?
What gifts did Christ give to men after He ascended?
Paraphrase
As a proof that Christ has given different gifts to each one, note that the Scripture saith (Psalms 68:18), in referring to Christ, that when he ascended into the heights of heaven, he took captive the things that held man in captivity, and he gave gifts unto men.
Notes (Ephesians 4:8)
Wherefore he saith is more clearly translated, Wherefore, it says, in Psalms 68:18, etc. Paul quoted this verse, which was actually a prophecy, to prove that Christ indeed had given various gifts to the members of the church.
Psalms 68:1-35, which is quoted here, is a psalm glorifying God for His power and victories in battle, for His wonders at Sinai and in the wilderness, and for His glory in the temple. Paul, by inspiration of God, informs us that at least part of the psalm had reference to our God and Savior, Jesus Christ. Paul gives his interpretation of the passage in verse nine.
What is the captivity which Christ led captive?
Some have thought that this is a reference to what Christ supposedly did after He died. This doctrine sets forth the idea that between the time of His death and resurrection Christ descended into Hades to preach, and to bring out the souls of the saints of Old Testament times. These saints supposedly could not previously be taken into God’s presence because no atonement price had been paid for their sins before Christ died. It is our firm belief that this doctrine is not taught in the Bible. and contradicts many plain Bible teachings. See Special Study I in back. What, then, is the captivity which is referred to?
(1)
Sin Whosoever committeth sin is the servant (doulos, slave) of sin (John 8:34; Luke 4:18).
(2)
Fear of death Christ died to deliver them, who through fear of death, were all their lifetime subject to bondage (Hebrews 2:15).
(3)
The law of sin Romans 8:2-3. Our human weakness toward sin, and fleshly inclination toward sin is a great captivity from which Christ has granted us deliverance if we will receive it.
By His death and ascension, Christ has taken captive these things that formerly held His people captive, and in the time to come, He shall even redeem us from the captivity of death.
What gifts did Christ* give unto men after He ascended? Victorious generals often gave to their warriors gifts from the spoils of battle, or from the royal treasure.
The gifts which Christ gave are listed in part in Ephesians 4:11. These consisted of certain offices apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. Also the Holy Spirit is spoken of as a gift, and the Holy Spirit was poured out after Christ ascended (Acts 2:33; Acts 2:38; Acts 11:15; Acts 11:17).
*The INTERPRETER’S BIBLE says that as the rabbis had applied Psalms 68:18 to Moses going up onto Sinai, likewise the writer of Ephesians adopts a form of the text then current among the rabbis, and then follows it with an arbitrary midrashic interpretation by applying it to Christ’s ascension. Actually there is no more natural and obvious application of Psa 68:18 possible than to apply it to Christ and His ascension. And since Paul, an inspired man, says that that is the meaning of it, all gainsaying should end.
Paul has been accused of misapplying Psalms 68:18 in this verse. He has been accused of using a form of the text which was different from the Hebrew version of Psa 68:18. There is an apparent difference, In the psalm the text reads, Thou hast received gifts for men, (Revised Version, among men.) As quoted in Ephesians 4:8, it reads, that He gave gifts unto men. There is actually no contradiction here between receiving (in Psalms) and giving (in Ephesians). The Hebrew word laqach, which ordinarily means to take or receive, sometimes carries the idea of taking something for someone else, which amounts to the same thing as giving it to them.
For example, Genesis 38:6: And Judah took a wife for (gave one unto) Er, his firstborn. Paul has not misapplied the Old Testament Scriptures.
Fact Questions
Why did Paul quote Psalms 68:18?
What three things are listed as being part of the captivity which Christ led captive?
When did Christ give gifts to men?
**Text (Ephesians 4:9-10)
9 Now this, he ascended, what is it but that he also descended into the lower parts of the earth? 10 He that descended is the same also that ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:9-19)**
If the Scripture speaks about God ascending, does not that imply that He must first have descended?
What are the lower parts of the earth into which Christ descended? Do you know what the phrase, the lower parts of the earth, is applied to in the Bible?
For what purpose did Christ descend and then ascend, according to verse ten?
Paraphrase
Now this statement in Psalms 68:1-35 that He ascended, what can that imply, except that God, about Whom the Psalm is written, must have first descended into the earth, thus entering the lower parts? For God could not be said to have ascended from heaven. He must needs have descended first to the earth.
Since only Jesus Christ has descended, He is the one of whom the Psalm speaks. He has descended, and He has ascended far above all the heavens, that He might fill and rule all things.
Notes (Ephesians 4:9-10)
These two verses are a parenthesis between verses eight and eleven, to prove that the verse quoted from Psalms 68:1-35 can apply only to Christ. Jesus Himself said in John 3:13, No man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man. This being true, when Psalms 68:1-35 spoke of one ascending into heaven, it must of necessity have referred to Jesus, for He alone has descended from heaven and ascended again.
The lower parts of the earth into which Christ descended refer to all the places into which Christ entered from His conception in Mary, until His ascension.
a.
The lower parts of the earth may refer to the womb of Mary, for David, in Psalms 139:13; Psalms 139:15 used the phrase lower parts of the earth to refer to his mother’s womb.
b.
The earth itself is the lower parts of the universe. Some have taken the words, the earth, as being in apposition and synonymous with the lower parts. For example, in the phrase, the city of Ephesus, the city and Ephesus are the same. Likewise, the lower parts and the earth may be the same. (We mention this interpretation because it is frequently suggested. Frankly, it seems a bit forced to us, because it is hard to use a word in apposition to a comparative form like the lower parts.)
c.
The lower parts of the earth refer to the grave, and perhaps to Sheol (Hades), which is described as being an underworld (Isaiah 14:9; Ezekiel 26:20). Note Psalms 63:9 Those who seek my soul to destroy it shall go into the lower parts of the earth.
Christ certainly descended into the grave and into Hades. Acts 2:27. Thus He was in the lower parts of the earth.
d.
The tomb of Jesus is referred to as the heart of the earth in Matthew 12:40. For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.
Christ ascended far above all the heavens, There are several heavens mentioned in the Scriptures. The third heaven is mentioned in 2 Corinthians 12:2, The atmosphere is spoken of as a heaven in such phrases as the birds of heaven. Outer space is spoken of as a heaven in such phrases as the stars of heaven (Jeremiah 4:25; Deuteronomy 28:62). The Jewish rabbis spoke of seven heavens, Christ is so exalted that He is far above all the heavens, (Compare Hebrews 7:26.)
After Christ ascended, there was given unto Him dominion, glory, and a kingdom (Daniel 7:14), Truly. He fills all things, for in Him all things consist (or hold together). (See Colossians 1:17.)
Fact Questions
What is implied in the statement, He ascended?
What are the lower parts of the earth into which Christ descended?
How high did Christ ascend?
For what purpose did Christ ascend?
**Text (Ephesians 4:11)
11 And he gave some to be apostles; and some prophets; and some evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers:
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:11)**
How could the offices in the church be considered gifts?
Does the church of today have apostles?
What is the difference between an evangelist and a pastor?
Paraphrase
When Christ ascended on high, he gave gifts to men. These gifts consisted of certain offices and powers, such as apostles, and prophets, and evangelists, pastors and teachers.
Notes (Ephesians 4:11)
Servants of the gospel may take considerable pleasure in the thought that the various offices of the church are Christ’s choice gifts to mankind.
The list of offices in this verse is not exhaustive. For a similar list of gifts, see 1 Corinthians 12:28.
The apostles were the special messengers, the eyewitnesses of Christ’s resurrection (Acts 1:21-22; Luke 6:13). Men may still be called apostles, in the sense that anyone who is sent is an apostle of the one who sends him. But strictly speaking, the twelve apostles had no successors.
While the office of apostle was temporary, the teachings of the twelve apostles will always direct the church. In one sense, we can say that the church still has apostles, the same ones it had in the beginning.
The prophets held another temporary office. (See Zechariah 13:1-3; 1 Corinthians 13:8. See notes on Ephesians 3:5 concerning the prophets.)
Preachers such as Timothy, Philip, etc., were called evangelists (2 Timothy 4:5; Acts 21:8). The word evangelist means a bringer of good news. Evangelists may be called ministers (1 Timothy 4:6). This office, by its very nature, must be permanent in the church. Evangelists will be needed as long as any person on earth has not heard the good news.
The pastors and teachers are those who are elsewhere called elders (presbyters) or bishops (overseers) (Acts 20:17; Titus 1:5-7). These men are the overseers and teachers of individual congregations, and there should be more than one such pastor in each church (Acts 14:23).
The absence of the article the before teachers in the Greek text, plus the fact that it is connected with pastors by a different conjunction than is used to separate the other offices, seems to indicate that the pastors and teachers are the same office viewed from two different aspects, namely from the teaching and shepherding aspects.
The common notion that an evangelist is a travelling preacher who holds revivals, and a pastor is a located preacher, has no foundation in the Scripture. Any preacher or minister of the gospel may be called an evangelist, and the elders ought to be called pastors.
Pastors and teachers are, of course, permanent officers in the church.
The offices (or gifts) here listed were originally given by miraculous endowment. Even the offices that would remain permanently in the church were given miraculous help in the early years of the church. Evangelists were enabled to preach without long years of study and training. Pastors and teachers were empowered to do their work without the necessity of long preparation. Such assistance was necessary to get the church firmly and quickly established, but there is no indication that such help was to be continued indefinitely.
Fact Questions
Name the five offices which Christ gave to be in the church at the beginning.
Which of the offices were permanent, and which were temporary?
Which two of the five offices probably refer to the same office under different names?
In what way were even the permanent offices miraculously given?
**Text (Ephesians 4:12)
12 for the perfecting of the saints, unto the work of ministering, unto the building up of the body of Christ:
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:12)**
What was it that was given for the perfecting of the saints, and the building up of the body of Christ? (See Ephesians 4:11.)
Why do the saints need to be perfected?
When Christians are perfected, what work should they do?
Paraphrase
The different gifts that Christ gave to the church apostles, prophets, etc. were given to bring about the perfecting of the saints, who are then to devote themselves unto the work of ministering. This perfecting of the saints and their work of ministering will lead unto the growth and building up of the church, the body of Christ.
Notes (Ephesians 4:12)
Perfecting means equipping, fitting out, preparing, or strengthening. Every new Christian needs to be fitted out for service to Christ. Especially was this true of the Christians of the apostolic age, most of whom had been idolaters and knew little about the true God and His ways.
When saints are perfected, they are to devote themselves to the work of ministering, such as ministering to the needs of the afflicted and the untaught. Every Christian household should imitate the example of the house of Stephanas, who addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints (1 Corinthians 16:15). That would be a wonderful type of addiction: We have perverted the scriptural concept of the word ministering, until it has become in most people’s minds a description of a clergyman’s work. ALL of us are to devote ourselves to ministering, which includes helping both the material and spiritual needs of people.
When the officers which Christ has given for the church are doing their work, and getting the people to do their work, then the churches will be building up. They will be growing in numbers, piety, good works, and happiness.
Fact Questions
For what purpose were the gifts given?
When the saints are perfected, what work will they do?
Unto what will the perfecting and ministering of the saints lead?
**Text (Ephesians 4:13)
13 till we all attain unto the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a fullgrown man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:13)**
What is it that was to last till we all attain unto the unity of the faith? (Ephesians 4:11-12 can help you answer this.)
When did, or when will, we all attain unto the unity of the faith?
By what means should the church be able to come to a unity of the knowledge of the Son of God?
Is the fullgrown man a description of what we are to become as individuals, or a description of the whole church when it is fully matured?
Unto what measure are we to grow? Is it actually possible to attain unto this measure?
Paraphrase
The gifts which Christ gave to the church for its building up are to continue until we all attain unto the unity of the faith, and the unity of the knowledge of Christ the Son of God; unto a state of development when we shall be like a fullgrown man; and indeed develop unto that required measure of growth wherein we shall have reached the stature of the fullness of Christ.
Notes (Ephesians 4:13)
According to Ephesians 4:3, we already have a unity which needs only to be kept or guarded. Here we are told that we must attain unto unity, We may be only one body in the sight of God, but this oneness is often strained to the breaking point. Even in Paul’s time the Jewish and Gentile Christians had little unity. They would probably have had no unity at all if Paul and others had not labored as they did. The word of God was not yet fully revealed at that time. Hence, there were many things that we know and can be united upon which were at that time matters of uncertainty.
The phrase, unity of the faith, probably means the unity demanded by faith in Christ. Our differing gifts and backgrounds should not keep us from having unity. In fact, the differences among us only serve to meet many needs. No one member can do everything necessary. Every member depends on every other member to do those things that he cannot do. Therefore, our differences should help us to attain unity, rather than hinder it.
We are also to attain to the unity of the knowledge of Christ, The knowledge mentioned here is precise, personal knowledge of Christ, not merely a knowledge of who He is, but a close personal acquaintance and a profound understanding of Him. The church should have been able to attain unto such knowledge when the apostles had finished their teachings and writings.
Verse Ephesians 4:13 seems to set a time limit on the gifts of Christ. They were to last till we all attain to the unity of the faith. It might seem that the church has never yet attained to the unity of the faith. However, this goal was almost a reality in the latter part of the first century. The church then reached a degree of unity of belief, fellowship, and practice that it has not duplicated since that time.
In the early generations after the church was established, Christ gave it many gifts and powers to hasten its growth from infancy to a fullgrown man. (See 1 Corinthians 12:8-11 and Ephesians 4:11 for lists of such gifts.)
While these gifts may have sometimes been given directly from Christ, we know that they were given by the laying on of the apostles-’ hands. However, those upon whom the apostles laid their hands apparently could not pass on the gifts that they received (2 Timothy 1:6; Romans 1:11; Acts 8:17-18).
At that time, the New Testament was not completed, as we have it today. Not all of the New Testament books had been written, nor were those which were written collected together into one group and widely distributed. If a man wished to preach the gospel, he had no book of authority and information to rely upon as we have. To take care of this temporary deficiency, Christ bestowed various gifts upon the church. For example: A man who received the gift of knowledge or prophecy could know and preach the gospel without having to spend years in study and preparation. WE, however, are told to study in order to show ourselves approved unto God (2 Timothy 2:15). A person with the gift of tongues, or interpretation of tongues, could go into a foreign area and speak so as to be understood without the struggle of having to learn a new language. The power to do this would be a mighty sign to unbelievers. A person with the gift of discerning of spirits could detect false teaching without having a Bible to prove that the teacher was a deceiver.
By these gifts, Christ enabled the church to become quickly rooted and to spread rapidly. It was very important in that early age that the gospel should quickly and securely take root all over the world.
But the gifts actually belonged to the childish age of the church. Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 13:8-11 that the spiritual gifts were like childish things. When the church became a fullgrown man, it would put away childish things, such as prophecies, tongues, knowledge.
In accordance with this, we find that the spiritual gifts that existed in the early generations of the church began to disappear after the lifetime of the apostles. While many people have claimed to have supernatural gifts even down to the present time, we do not find people on earth today who can work miracles like Christ and His apostles did. We are of the persuasion that the gifts were only to last till we all attain unto the unity of the faith, and we understand that this took place when the writings of the apostles were completed and made available to the church. Of course, the permanent officers which Christ gave to the church are still with us. They serve as God’s appointed agents to lead the church once again to the unity of the faith.
The church is described as the body of Christ in many places in Ephesians, It is therefore most appropriate to describe the fully matured church as a fullgrown man.
Ephesians 4:13 discusses the church as a whole, rather than as individual members, It is we all who are to come into the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a fullgrown man.
As stated in the notes on Ephesians 1:23, the term fulness has a passive sense: that which is filled. If we are to develop spiritually until we measure up to the stature of that which is filled by Christ, we ought to develop very greatly, and arrive at a time of life when we shall be like Christ Who has filled us.
Fact Questions
What was to last until the church attained unto the unity of the faith?
What are the three things listed in Ephesians 4:13 that the church was to attain unto?
According to the notes, when did the church attain unto the unity of the faith, etc.?
**Text (Ephesians 4:14)
14 that we may be no longer children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, in craftiness, after the wiles of error;
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:14)**
How is a young Christian who is exposed to many conflicting teachings like a ship on a stormy sea?
Why are the young easily led to accept falsehoods?
Are false teachers always bad, working by the sleight of men, in craftiness? Are not some of them sincere?
What are wiles? Why does error use wiles?
Paraphrase
The church must develop into a fullgrown man, so that we may no longer be children in spiritual development. Spiritual children are like ships on a stormy sea, tossed about and carried around by every wind of teaching they hear. And those teachings which toss the uninstructed to and fro are often most deceptive, being presented by the dishonest methods of men, and by every cunning way of working that is suited to the wiles of error.
Notes (Ephesians 4:14)
The word children used here refers to little children or infants, those who are young Christians. Such little children will believe almost anything that they may be told, even if it is a lie. We should not long remain in spiritual infancy, and there is no need of so remaining.
The force of false doctrine upon the uninstructed is like the force of a storm upon a ship without a rudder.
The winds of doctrine that blow the uninstructed around blow in (or by) two things:
(1)
In the sleight of men.
(2)
In craftiness after the wiles of error. (Rotherham translates this: In knavery suited to the artifice of error.)
The word sleight (from Kubos, meaning cube) actually refers to dice-playing. The false doctrines that are taught are sometimes presented by dishonest means, even as dice players use dishonesty. Like a small child who finds himself the victim of card sharks, so is an untrained soul before the winds of doctrine.
The term craftiness carries the idea of bad working. The root of the word means all workings. False teachers do not overlook a single opportunity to promote their doctrines.
This craftiness is practiced by the wiles (or trickeries) of error. Wiles are tricks, or sneaky schemes. Error never comes out into the open and honestly represents itself. It uses wiles to deceive the unsuspecting. (Compare Ephesians 6:11.)
Error is never harmless, nor are false teachers good. They may be morally outstanding, like wolves in sheep’s clothing. In fact, they may not even be aware of their own errors. But this does not make them harmless. In truth, those who live good and exemplary lives but do not teach the truth are the most dangerous people of all.
Fact Questions
What are we no longer to be (Ephesians 4:14)?
What is it that tosses and blows about those who are spiritual children?
In (or by) what two things do the winds of doctrine blow?
To what does the word sleight refer? What does this indicate about those who teach false doctrines?
**Text (Ephesians 4:15)
15 but speaking truth in love, may grow up in all things into him, who is the head, even Christ;
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:15)**
Why must truth be spoken in love? Can truth be spoken without love? Can love be demonstrated without speaking the truth?
Is there any difference between becoming like Christ and growing up into Christ?
Paraphrase
Rather than remaining spiritual children who are subject to such perils, we must grow up. As we grow, we must live according to truth in everything we do. Then we shall grow up in all things into Christ, who is the head of the church.
Notes (Ephesians 4:15)
Verse fourteen told us what we should not do: Be no more children. This verse tells us what we should do: Grow up into Christ.
We should not merely imitate some of Christ’s good characteristics. We must grow up INTO Him. Our nature, thoughts, and deeds should be absorbed into those of Christ. As we serve Him, pray unto Him, and learn of Him, we shall grow into Him.
Speaking truth carries the idea of living the truth, or of truthing it, or pursuing truth (Rotherham). It is very hard to be completely truthful at all times, but such is the will of God for us.
Truth and love must be joined together, Together they are powerful. Truth can be uttered without love. We can have such a superior attitude that the truth we speak will repel people instead of attracting them.
However, you cannot show real love without holding to the truth. It is not true love to allow a person to go to hell to avoid hurting his feelings. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. For this is the love of God that we keep his commandments (1 John 5:2-3).
The New Testament repeatedly emphasizes that Christ is the head of the church.
Fact Questions
How must we speak truth?
Into whom are we to grow?
In what things are we to grow up into Christ?
**Text (Ephesians 4:16)
16 from whom all the body fitly framed and knit together through that which every joint supplieth, according to the working in due measure of each several part, maketh the increase of the body unto the building up of itself in love.
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:16)**
Who is it from whom all the body (is) fitly framed?
Can you find the principal parts (subject, predicate, and object) of verse sixteen?
This verse says that the body (the church) must be fitly framed and knit together. What does the word knit mean when applied to the human body, as to a broken bone, for example? How would this indicate that the members of the church should be joined together?
What must each several part do if the body is to make increase?
What is that which every joint supplieth that causes the body to be knit together and to make increase?
When does the church build itself up in love?
Paraphrase
From Christ, the head, all the body is bound together closely, indeed even coalesced or grown together. This joining is done as that vital supply of spiritual life passes from Christ through every joint (contact) to the parts next to it. And when every single member of the body is thus functioning in the measure that it should, the whole body will make the increase of the body, and it will build itself up in love.
Notes (Ephesians 4:16)
Stripped of its many qualifying phrases, the gist of verse sixteen is this: The whole body makes the increase of the body, In other words, all the members of the church must work together if the church is going to grow.
The evil in the church today is that we lay too much stress on certain offices and too little on the work required of every member of the body.
Fitly framed means bound together, joined together closely, As bones are bound together at the joints by ligaments, so all members of the body of Christ are closely joined together.
Knit together suggests growing together, or coalesced. The members of the church are not just placed side by side, but should become coalesced into one living body. The ties that bind brethren in Christ are as close as those that bind the leg bone to the thigh bone.
Through that which every joint supplieth literally reads, through every joint of the supply.
Christ, of course, furnishes the supply, the vital nourishment of the spiritual body, This vital supply goes out from Christ through every joint of the body to the parts next to it. Thus the members are knit together.
This suggests that as we have been nourished in spiritual things from Christ, we must pass on our spiritual sustenance to the members of the body next to us. Thus the whole body will be knit together.
Each member of the body (church) must function according to the working in due measure of each single part. When one part of the human body fails to function, the whole body suffers. The same thing happens in the church.
The church builds itself up in love when every member is working to make the increase of the body. A church that is busy, and has its members working to win souls, usually has no time for quarreling. It builds itself up in love.
Fact Questions
What is the gist of Eph 4:16, stripped of its many qualifying phrases?
What is supplied from Christ? Through what does it pass?
How must each several part of the body work?
In what does the body build itself up when it is increasing?
FROM CHRIST (The Head)
ALL THE BODY MAKES THE INCREASE OF THE BODY.
THE BODY MUST BE
JOINED TOGETHER HARMONIOUSLY AND KNIT TOGETHER INTO
ONE ORGANISM
EACH MEMBER WORKING IN THE
MEASURE THAT IS DUE
**EVERY MEMBER MUST WORK
IF THE CHURCH IS TO INCREASE**
Ephesians 4:9
**SPECIAL STUDY IDID CHRIST GO TO HELL?
Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? Ephesians 4:9.**
Some people have thought that during the time between Christ’s death on the cross and His resurrection, He went down into hell (or Hades) to preach to the people there, and to bring out the saints of Old Testament times who could not previously be taken into God’s presence because no atonement price had been paid for their sins.
THE INTERPRETER’S BIBLE says of Eph 4:9 that it is certainly a reference the earliest in Christian literature to the descent of Christ into Hades.
The Apostles-’ (?) Creed says, He (Christ) descended into hell. This doctrine is elaborately set forth in the Gospel of Nicodemus, an apocryphal gospel, which, according to the general consensus of scholars, was composed in the fifth century.
Those who accept this doctrine maintain that such references as 1 Peter 3:19; 1 Peter 4:6, Ephesians 4:9; and Matthew 27:52-53 support it.
However, there is much disagreement as to WHAT Christ may have done in hell (or really, Hades, the unseen world of all the dead). According to the Gospel of Nicodemus (a highly imaginary legend), Christ, between the time He died and rose again, went down to Hades to rescue Adam, Noah, Moses, Isaiah, and all the other Old Testament saints. They were being kept away from God’s presence until the time when Christ should die and make complete atonement for the sins of all mankind of all ages.
Such teaching as this contradicts Romans 3:25, which says that God passed over. the sins done aforetime during the time of His forbearance. Apparently the Old Testament saints were ushered into heaven when they died, even as we are. Elijah was taken into heaven (2 Kings 2:1; 2 Kings 2:11), and apparently Enoch was also (Hebrews 11:5). We read that Abraham was accounted righteous by faith (Romans 4:3). If God accounted him righteous, why should he have been shut off from God in a prison? It is true that full payment had not yet been made for the sins of these people until Christ died. But Christ is the Lamb of God, slain from the foundation of the world (Revelation 13:8; Revelation 5:6). Therefore, in anticipation of that sacrifice, God passed over the sins of the Old Testament saints.
1 Peter 3:19 tells of Christ preaching to those who were in prison. Therefore, some have understood that Christ preached to the sinners in Hades, such as those who had been disobedient in the days of Noah.
There are many unanswerable questions and objections to the idea that Christ preached to the sinners in Hades.
(1)
Why did He preach JUST to the sinners who were disobedient in the days of Noah, as the text indicates? Other ages had many disobedient, lost people who would have needed Christ.
(2)
WHAT could Christ have preached to them? Between His death and resurrection, Christ could not have preached the gospel. For the gospel consists of His death, burial, AND RESURRECTION (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). We know that Christ was raised for our justification (Romans 4:25). Therefore, during the period between His death and resurrection, Christ could not have offered them justification. Did He, then, go to hell to taunt those who were lost?
(3)
WHAT PURPOSE would Christ have had for going to Hades? It is certain that the wicked were offered no second chance (2 Peter 2:5; 2 Peter 2:9). And the righteous with their sins passed over did not need to be rescued.
(4)
WHAT RESULTS could Christ have expected from such a preaching expedition? No one doubts that one could hold a hot revival meeting in hell! Note how concerned the rich man in Hades was about his soul and the souls of his brothers (Luke 16:24-28). But note also that Abraham said it was impossible for the rich man to change his state. Christ did not raise the wicked dead from the graves, and He could not have preached justification to them until He arose Himself.
To test any interpretation of a difficult Bible passage, such as 1 Peter 3:19, three questions may be asked:
(1)
Exactly what does the text say? Are we reading ideas into it that are not actually stated in the text?
(2)
Does the interpretation contradict other more plain passages of Scripture? Does it harmonize with other Scriptures?
(3)
Does the interpretation fit into the context of the passage, so as to make one harmonious teaching with what goes before and what follows?
Let us consider the doctrine that Christ went to preach in hell in the light of the three questions given above:
(1)
The text says that Christ was put to death in His flesh; but that He was quickened, or made alive, in (His) spirit. The word spirit should not be capitalized here, as it is in the King James Version. The Greek text simply says, in spirit, rather than in THE (Holy) Spirit Now we know that Christ’s spirit never actually died, but went into Paradise (Luke 23:46). The spirit of Christ was quickened in the sense that it received an increased vigor and power after His sufferings in the flesh. Read 1 Peter 3:22 to see how His spirit was quickened.
In speaking of the spirit of Christ, which was quickened, Peter says that Christ also went in spirit and preached unto the spirits in prison. Just WHEN He preached is not clearly indicated here. From this verse alone one could not determine whether the spirits were in prison when Christ preached to them, or were in prison when Peter wrote this letter, which was many years later.
(2)
The doctrine that Christ preached to sinners in Hades contradicts Peter’s own writings. 2 Peter 2:4-5; 2 Peter 2:9: For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to Hell (Tartarus), and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment, and spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person (with seven others) - - - the Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished. These verses positively rule out the doctrine that Christ offered these sinners of ancient times a second chance (and we can conceive of no other reason why Christ should have preached to them).
Furthermore, the doctrine contradicts Christ’s statement in Luke 23:43 that He would be in Paradise after His death. Certainly the sinners who had been disobedient in the days of Noah were not in Paradise where Christ went.
(3)
The thought of the whole passage, 1 Peter 3:17-22; 1 Peter 4:1-2, is that it is better to suffer, if need be, in well-doing than to compromise with evil. (Note especially 1 Peter 3:17 and 1 Peter 4:1.) To prove this point, the sufferings of Christ are set forth as an illustration. (See 1 Peter 3:18.) The glory that came to Him after His sufferings (see 1 Peter 3:22) shows us that we will also do well to endure sufferings patiently.
Question Does the supposed preaching expedition into Hades show that Christ’s sufferings were rewarded? And does it thus set forth His sufferings as an encouragement to us in suffering? The answer is no to both of these questions. Since we know nothing whatever about what this supposed preaching expedition accomplished, why should it encourage us to bear sufferings? There is no hope or encouragement for us in thinking that Christ’s sufferings were followed by a preaching expedition into Hades, when we do not know the results of that preaching. This doctrine does not fit into the context of the passage, as required by question (3) above.
THE TRUE INTERPRETATION OF 1 Peter 3:19
Naturally we are unsatisfied to say, I don-’t believe that Christ went to hell, We want to know what we may believe as truth. It seems to us that the true interpretation of 1 Peter 3:19 may be perceived from what has been written before in this special study, and from these verses:
(1)
1 Peter 1:11 The prophets - - - prophesied - - - searching what manner of time the Spirit of Christ, which was in them, did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ.
(2)
2 Peter 2:5 Noah was a preacher of righteousness.
(3)
Genesis 6:3 And the Lord said, My Spirit shall not strive with man forever, for that he also is flesh.
God’s Spirit, which is the same as the Spirit of Christ, or the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:9), strove with men in the days of Noah. But it was through the prophets (preachers) that the Spirit of Christ testified. Noah was a preacher of righteousness. In the days of Noah, Christ’s Spirit preached through Noah to those who were disobedient in those days, and who have therefore ever since been reserved in prison unto judgment. And, of course, they were in prison when Peter wrote his epistle.
Let us test this interpretation in the light of the three questions given before:
(1)
There is nothing in this interpretation out of harmony with the exact words and thoughts of the text (1 Peter 3:19).
(2)
This view is in harmony with the Scriptures given above (1 Peter 1:11; 2 Peter 2:5; Genesis 6:3). A parallel thought is in Ephesians 2:17. In that passage Paul told the Ephesians that Christ came and preached peace to you that were far off. Of course, Christ came and preached to the Ephesians in the persons of His apostles, just as He went and preached in Noah’s day through Noah. In both cases, the Spirit of Christ preached, but the words were uttered through human lips.
(3)
This interpretation fits wonderfully into the context of the passage, which is designed to teach us that we should suffer, if need be, for well doing, because Christ so suffered. Note how well it fits into the argument:
Peter mentioned (Ephesians 3:18) that Christ’s Spirit was quickened after His sufferings. Having mentioned Christ’s Spirit, he said that ALSO Christ went in that Spirit and preached to the spirits now in prison. Of course, that preaching was done long before He suffered. Note that FEW (only eight) were saved as a result of that preaching.
Since that time Christ has suffered and died to bring us unto God. He wished to bring the men in Noah’s day to God, but few obeyed. Behold now the increased power in the preaching of Christ since His sufferings. Millions of souls have been saved through water (baptism), while only eight were saved through water in the days of Noah before Christ suffered. Those who read Peter’s letter could themselves testify that Christ’s preaching to them through His apostles was vastly more fruitful than His preaching in old times through Noah before He suffered.
According to 1 Peter 3:21, we are saved by baptism through the resurrection of Christ. If there had been no suffering, there would have been no resurrection. With no resurrection, there would have been no baptism and no salvation. Christ’s sufferings were therefore necessary and very fruitful. We should take courage by the example of His sufferings.
Christ once said (John 12:32), And I, IF I be lifted up from the earth (that is, crucified), will draw all men unto me. This increased spiritual power of Christ to draw all mankind since His suffering, is what Peter meant by Christ being quickened in spirit.
What about the other Scriptures that are set forth as support for the doctrine that Christ went into Hades?
(1)
Ephesians 4:8-9. See the notes in this book on these verses.
(2)
Matthew 27:52-53 We know nothing whatsoever about this event, except the bare facts as recorded. It is pure speculation to try to make these verses fit into a theory about Christ going into Hades, The temporary resurrection of these saints is no greater a miracle than the resurrection of Lazarus and similar events. Many things occurred during the earthly sojourn of Christ that proved His deity. This event certainly proved that Christ was the very Son of God, More we cannot say.
(3)
1 Peter 4:6 Who are the dead to whom the gospel was preached? They were not the souls of the dead, but those who were once alive, and are now dead. When they were living, the Word of God was preached to them. Now they are dead, Thus the gospel was preached to the dead. This verse should help us to understand 1 Peter 3:19, which tells of Christ preaching to the spirits in prison.
1 Peter 4:5, the verse immediately preceding the one we are now considering, speaks of Christ as being ready to judge the quick (or living) and the dead. This obviously refers to those who will have died before Christ returns, as contrasted to those who will be living when He comes back.
Our conclusion is that the doctrine that Christ went into Hades is not taught in the Bible, and contradicts the Bible. It is an unprofitable, speculative, controversial, confusing teaching. A man could hold this doctrine and still be a Christian, but the doctrine itself is error.
Ephesians 4:17-32
Previewing in Outline Form (Ephesians 4:17-32; Ephesians 5:1-2)
B.
Walk as becometh saints. Ephesians 4:17-32; Ephesians 5:1-20.
Walk not as the Gentiles walk. Ephesians 4:17-24.
a.
The command. Ephesians 4:17 a.
b.
The Gentile walk. Ephesians 4:17 b - Ephesians 4:19.
(1)
In the vanity of their mind. Ephesians 4:17 b.
(2)
Darkened in understanding. Ephesians 4:18 a.
(3)
Alienated from the life of God. Ephesians 4:18 b.
(a)
Because of the ignorance in them.
(b)
Because of the hardening of their heart.
(4)
Given over to lasciviousness. Ephesians 4:19.
(a)
Because they were past feeling.
(b)
To work all uncleanness with greediness.
c.
The Christian’s walk. Ephesians 4:20-24.
(1)
Different from the Gentile’s walk. Ephesians 4:20-21.
(2)
Must put away our former manner of life. Ephesians 4:22.
(3)
Must be renewed in the spirit of your mind. Ephesians 4:23.
(4)
Must put on the new man. Ephesians 4:24.
Seven practical exhortations. Ephesians 4:25-32; Ephesians 5:1-2.
a.
Speak the truth. Ephesians 4:25.
b.
Control your anger. Ephesians 4:26-27.
c.
Steal no more. Ephesians 4:28.
d.
Speak that which is good. Ephesians 4:29.
e.
Grieve not the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 4:30.
f.
Put away angry talk and attitudes. Ephesians 4:31.
g.
Be imitators of God. Ephesians 4:32; Ephesians 5:1-2.
(1)
Be kind.
(2)
Be tenderhearted.
(3)
Be forgiving.
(4)
Walk in love. Ephesians 5:2.
**Text (Ephesians 4:17-19)
17 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye no longer walk as the Gentiles also walk, in the vanity of their mind, 18 being darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardening of their hearts; 19 who being past feeling gave themselves up to lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:17-19)**
Was it a simple task for the Ephesian Christians to walk no longer as the Gentiles walk?
Paul seems to condemn the Gentiles quite heavily. Did the Gentiles as a whole live baser lives than the Jews?
Did Paul mean to imply by his use of the word Gentile that non-Christians should be called Gentiles, regardless of their race?
What is vanity? What Old Testament book exposes many things as being vanity?
Describe the condition of the Gentiles-’ understanding.
Are the Gentiles aware that they are alienated from the life of God? Is there any other source of life, except from God?
Note that the Gentiles are alienated from God because of the ignorance that is in them. What should this teach us about the state of the heathen who do not know God at present?
What happens to the conscience when we harden our hearts and do not do what we know we should?
Can a person get to the point that he is no longer pained by conscience?
To what type of conduct do people without feelings of guilt and shame always give themselves (Ephesians 4:19)?
Paraphrase
Now this I say, and bear testimony with all the seriousness of one who knows the Lord and is serving Him, that you must no longer be walking, that is, living each day, as other Gentiles walk. For they live according to the useless and perverse disposition of their minds, and not according to what is good and of God.
The Gentiles are covered with darkness in their understanding. They are shut off from the life which God bestows, on account of the ignorance that is in them, and on account of the callusing of their hearts.
They have gone so far in sin that they have lost all feeling of guilt and pain of conscience when they do wrong. Having no restraints within them, they have given themselves over to unbridled lust and shamelessness, to work all manner of uncleanness with unrestrained desires to have more of forbidden pleasures.
Notes (Ephesians 4:17-19)
It took a lot of courage for the Ephesian Christians to no longer walk as the Gentiles walk. They lived in the shadow of the glorious temple of Diana, and with milling thousands of her worshippers, To refuse to associate in the practices of their former friends took much conviction and courage.
It still takes a lot of courage to walk no longer as the Gentiles walk. Social drinking, lewd motion pictures, night clubs, dancing, card-playing, and many other things that are displeasing to God are so much a part of modern American life that many Christians compromise their standards. Let us resolutely refuse to walk any longer as the Gentiles walk.
Some modern commentaries make a great deal of the use of the word Gentiles in verse seventeen, attempting to prove that Paul could not have written Ephesians. It is alleged that Gentiles is contrasted with Christians, and that Paul never conceived of such a contrast as church members being Israelites, and non-Christians being Gentiles.
It is by no means implied in this verse that all non-Christians are to be called Gentiles. The word Gentiles in the verse obviously refers to non-Christian Gentiles. There were far more Gentiles living in and around Ephesus than there were Jews. The Ephesian church was predominantly Gentile. Quite naturally, therefore, Paul would speak to the Ephesians about how the Gentiles lived when he wanted to make a contrast between the lives of the Christians and the lives of the non-Christians.
The Gentiles around Ephesus were much given to magic, immorality, and high-mindedness before their conversion to Christ. Generally they lived much more sinful lives than the Jews. The Jews were not perfect, but they had known God and His Law for centuries, and did not walk in the idolatry and vain practices that were nearly universal among the Gentiles. Paul did not want his converts to continue to live as the Gentiles had always lived. However, even if Paul did use the word Gentiles to denote non-Christians, it would not be un-Pauline. For in Galatians 6:16 he speaks of the church as the Israel of God. (Compare also Romans 2:28-29; Romans 9:6-8; Philippians 3:3.)
Vanity is that which is devoid of truth and appropriateness; that which is worthless, useless, and has no good about it, In the book of Ecclesiastes, King Solomon exposed many things that the world thinks are excellent (such as laughter, lust, liquor, learning, real estate, riches) as vanity, and a striving after wind. But the Gentiles (and also most unconverted Jews) are still striving after such things. Christians have been redeemed from their vain manner of life (1 Peter 1:18).
The world considers itself too wise to believe the teachings of the Bible. Actually, this attitude is not due to wisdom, but to a darkening in its mind. Satan has blinded the minds of the unbelieving (2 Corinthians 4:4).
God gives life to all. Hence, it is a perversion of nature to depart from the life of God. But the Gentiles are shut off from the life of God, being aliens to God’s kingdom. (See the notes on Ephesians 2:12; Ephesians 2:19.) They are alienated for two reasons:
(1)
The ignorance that is in them.
(2)
The hardening (callusing) of their heart.
Note that the Gentiles did not know much, and that God does not excuse ignorance. Furthermore, they hardened their hearts against that which they did know.
The King James Version wrongly has blindness for hardening in Ephesians 4:18. The skin on the hands develops a hardening or callus when it is exposed to pressure and work. Likewise, when the conscience is rubbed hard and its guidance ignored, it develops a hardening or callus. However, instead of being a protection from injury, this is merely a dulling of our finest nature.
Sin is like anesthesia. At first, it is offensive, and our conscience revolts against it. However, if we do not get away from it, it soon becomes less offensive to us, and then finally overpowering. We could also compare it to the cold of the great North, which can benumb its victims until they are doomed, but feel no cold. Being past feeling is the last stage before destruction. If your conscience never bothers you any more, you are in terrible peril.
Those who lose all feeling of guilt go readily into lasciviousness. Lasciviousness is a term that includes adultery, fornication, immodesty, shameless dress and speech, indecent behavior, etc. All of these things are natural for one who has thrown aside the feelings of conscience. Nothing is more terrible than the loss of shame. Immodesty should embarrass or anger us. If it does not, we need only to remove the checks of circumstances to complete the descent into sin.
The Gentiles do not do iniquity hesitantly, but with greediness or eagerness. This term greediness (Authorized Version, covetousness) refers to a greedy desire to have more. They desire the pleasures of sin, and go greedily after them.
Fact Questions
How were the Ephesians forbidden to walk?
In what do most Gentiles walk (Ephesians 4:17)?
What was the condition of the understanding of the Gentiles?
For what two reasons were the Gentiles alienated from the life of God?
To what did the Gentiles give themselves (Ephesians 4:19)?
**Text (Ephesians 4:20-22)
20 But ye did not so learn Christ; 21 if so be that ye heard him, and were taught in him, even as truth is in Jesus: 22 that ye put away, as concerning your former manner of life, the old man, that waxeth corrupt after the lusts of deceit;
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:20-22)**
Can one be taught of Christ so as not to be taught as the truth is in Jesus?
If we have heard of Christ according to truth, what are we to put away?
Are we Christians in truth because we know and accept correct words and doctrines (Ephesians 4:22)?
Is putting away our old man to be done once for all, or is it a gradual process?
Do sinners get better with age and experience? What does it mean when it says the old man waxeth corrupt?
What are lusts of deceit? What is deceitful about lusts?
Paraphrase
You Ephesians who learned the gospel did not learn of Christ to work uncleanness with greediness, so as to think these things allowable.
Assuming that you have heard of Christ and were taught according to what is truth in Jesus,
then ye were taught that you must put away all that concerns your manner of life before becoming a Christian; for that old man was getting worse and worse, decaying more and more, just as deceitful lusts always cause a spiritual decay.
Notes (Ephesians 4:20-22)
Learn Christ means more than to learn certain doctrines. True knowledge of Christ must produce a transformed life.
Truth in Jesus consists in putting away our former manner of life, and of putting on the new man, and of being renewed in the spirit of our mind. The Romish doctrine that a person can be morally bad and still be in good standing in the church is not of truth as it is in Jesus.
Put away and put on (Ephesians 4:22; Ephesians 4:24) are verbs in the aorist imperative which indicates completed action, done one time. Be renewed (Ephesians 4:23) is in the present imperative, indicating continuous progressive action. This teaches us that repentance must be a thorough break with sin. There should be no gradual putting away the old man. However, the development of the new man is a progressive process.
Lusts of deceit are deceitful lusts. The things we desire (lust for) in this world promise thrills, and satisfaction, Instead they bring only disappointment, shame, disgrace, and contention.
Our old man, our former life before we accepted Christ, was becoming more and more corrupt through the deceitful desires he sought after. (See 2 Timothy 3:13.) Age and experience usually do not improve sinners. Their consciences become duller, and habits of evil more firmly fixed.
Conversation in the King James Version (Ephesians 4:22) means our manner of life.
Fact Questions
If the Ephesians learned of Christ as truth is, what would they put away?
What is happening to the sinner’s nature (the old man)?
**Text (Ephesians 4:23-24)
23 and that ye be renewed in the spirit of your mind, 24 and put on the new man, that after God hath been created in righteousness and holiness of truth.
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:23-24)**
What is the spirit of our mind?
How can the spirit of our mind be renewed?
What is the new man which we are to put on?
After whom have we been created? In what sense is the converted man created?
How does God create us in righteousness? Do we not perform our own righteousness?
What do you think the phrase holiness of truth means?
Paraphrase
You Ephesians must not only put off the old nature, but be renewing yourselves in the spirit that directs your mind.
Put on the new man, that new disposition and nature which has been created in the likeness of God in righteousness and true holiness.
Notes (Ephesians 4:23-24)
Be renewed is a continuous duty and process.
The spirit of your mind is the spirit that directs your mind. Before conversion it was a disobedient spirit. Now it must be a spirit of meekness, humility, and obedience.
How often in the Bible are righteousness and Christian character compared to garments which may be put on or off! Thus we note that Christians can improve themselves with God’s help. We do not have to be the same old detestable persons always. We can put on a new man.
The new man, or new nature, is created (2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:10). The change in people that comes through faith and the incoming of the Holy Spirit is as great as the act that God wrought when He created the material universe. We are created after GOD. We are not created to be like the great men of this world, but to be like God (1 John 3:1).
We are created in righteousness, because we have no righteousness in ourselves. Christ Jesus is our righteousness (1 Corinthians 1:30). God takes away our sins when we are saved, and declares us righteous as a result of what He has done for us. Of course, after being thus created in righteousness, we must live soberly, righteously, and godly (Titus 2:12).
Holiness of truth means true holiness, not holiness which is just ceremonial or pretended. We were created to develop a Godlike character, true holiness. We are not saved merely to escape from hell and receive blessings.
Fact Questions
In what are we to be renewed?
What are we to put on?
After whom are we created?
In what two ways are we created after God?
**Ephesians 4:25-32; Ephesians 5:1-2
SEVEN PRACTICAL EXHORTATIONS**
SPEAK THE TRUTH; Ephesians 4:25
CONTROL YOUR ANGER; Ephesians 4:26-27
STEAL NO MORE; Ephesians 4:28
SPEAK THAT WHICH IS GOOD; Ephesians 4:29
GRIEVE NOT THE HOLY SPIRIT; Ephesians 4:30
PUT AWAY ANGRY TALK AND ATTITUDES; Ephesians 4:31
BE IMITATORS OF GOD; Ephesians 4:32; Ephesians 5:1-2
BE KIND
TENDERHEARTED
FORGIVING
WALK IN LOVE Ephesians 5:2
**Text (Ephesians 4:25-27)
25 Wherefore, putting away falsehood, speak ye truth each one with his neighbor: for we are members one of another. 26 Be ye angry and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: 27 neither give place to the devil.
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:25-27)**
What is the force of the wherefore in Ephesians 4:25? Compare the preceding verses before you answer.
Why should the fact that we are members one of another curb our lying?
Did Paul command us to be angry? Harmonize Ephesians 4:26 with Ephesians 4:31.
Did Paul forbid us to be angry?
What is the danger in anger?
How long is wrath to be permitted to continue?
What does it mean when it says, Neither give place to the devil?
Is there any connection between being angry and giving place to the devil?
Paraphrase
Because you are new creatures in Christ, created by God in true holiness, you must observe such practical duties as to stop lying to one another, and to speak the truth to your neighbors. This we must do because we are members one of another in the church.
Furthermore, we must keep anger under control that we sin not. You may have anger arise at times, but let it not be prolonged. Put it away before the sun goes down.
Neither give an opportunity to the devil to control your actions, which can easily be done if anger is prolonged.
Notes (Ephesians 4:25-27)
After the lofty exhortations of Eph 4:23-24, Paul brings us down to earth with a jolt in these verses, We have been created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore, on account of that, certain duties are laid upon us.
Ephesians 4:25 begins a series of seven practical exhortations concerning the walk of the Christian. See the outline.
The admonition to put away falsehood and speak the truth always is very hard to keep, but it is repeatedly commanded in the New Testament. Verse Ephesians 4:25 is a quotation from Zechariah 8:16.
In the church we are all members of Christ, and therefore members of one another. Now, in the human body, if one member, the nerves, were paralyzed, and lied to the stomach by carrying no sensations of hunger, the body might refuse all food and destroy itself. Likewise in the church, any lie by one member affects all the other members of the body. When one member is known to have lied, the whole church is discredited.
Verse Ephesians 4:26 is a quotation of Psa 4:4, where the reading is, Stand in awe and sin not. (The Revised Version margin reads, Be ye angry and sin not.) This is not a command to be angry but a caution not to sin when we are angry. People often do things when they are angry that they would not normally do.
While it is not a command to be angry, neither is it a prohibition of anger. Sometimes anger is necessary. Paul was occasionally angry (Acts 13:9-10; Acts 23:3). Even Christ Jesus felt anger (Mark 3:5). We need to have convictions strong enough to have strong feelings about wickedness.
Nonetheless, while anger may sometimes be justified, it must be speedily cooled down. Anger should subside the same day it arises. When the sun has gone down, let anger be gone. The anger upon which the sun is not to go down is anger that expresses itself in exasperation and wrath, the anger in which one is almost beside himself.
If anger is held very long, it becomes malice, hatred, and resentment, and produces a desire for revenge. It gives a place (opportunity) to the devil to lead us into transgression and self-ruination.
While there is a connection between anger and giving place to the devil, there are also other ways we can give a place to the devil. For examples, (1) meditating upon lustful things, (2) meditating upon our unfair share of earthly riches, (3) reading books that undermine faith and morals.
Fact Questions
What is the reason we are to speak truth to our neighbors?
What are we to be careful not to do when angry?
How long is anger to be allowed to continue?
To whom are we not to give place?
**Text (Ephesians 4:28)
28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing that is good, that he may have whereof to give to him that hath need,
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:28)**
Are there thieves in the church?
Can this verse be harmonized with the Communist doctrine of state ownership of all property?
What is the grand purpose of our labor?
Paraphrase
Let anyone in the church who is stealing steal no more. But rather let him toil, working with his own hands which were formerly used to steal, doing work which is good, so that he may have the means to maintain himself, and to share with those who have need.
Notes (Ephesians 4:28)
It may seem strange that Christians should have to be taught not to steal. But stealing is not uncommon. Nowadays there are many sophisticated forms of stealing embezzlement, cheating on tax reports, driving hard bargains, misrepresenting goods, loafing on the employer’s time, shortening an employee’s time, cheating on examinations, etc. Let him that stole regardless of how he did it, or what he stole steal no more.
The best antidote for stealing is working. The word labor here implies wearisome, exhausting toil.
It is plainly taught here that work is not only for selfish gain, but to help others. Honesty is inculcated by an appeal to the highest motives, And this verse certainly does not teach us to steal from the rich to give to the poor. We must work if we want to have the means to help those in need.
This verse cannot be harmonized with Communist doctrine. The verse commands private generosity. But private ownership of property is a necessity if we are to have anything to give to others. Communism destroys private ownership, and makes all things state property.
Fact Questions
What is the one who steals to do?
With what is the ex-thief to work?
What type of work is the ex-thief to do?
What is the noble objective for which we toil and labor?
**Text (Ephesians 4:29)
29
Let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth, but such as** is **good for edifying as the need may be, that it may give grace to them that hear.
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:29)**
How often is our conversation actually uttered with a purpose in mind of edifying and giving grace to those who hear us?
What types of utterance could be called corrupt speech?
How can speech give grace to them that hear?
Paraphrase
Let no rotten utterances go out from your mouth, but rather let that go out of your mouth which is good for building up people who may be in need of encouragement, correction, or instruction. Such speech will bring pleasure and profit to them that hear.
Notes (Ephesians 4:29)
Christians must carefully control their speech at all times. Do not let any speech that is rotten and corrupt go out of your mouth. (Compare Ephesians 5:4; Matthew 12:36-37.) Words are not simply so much wind. They carry with them the personality and thoughts of the speaker. As character can be rotten and produce evil, words can also be corrupt, for they reflect character.
Words are very powerful. They can fill many needs, such as giving instruction, encouragement, and correction.
Fact Questions
What type of speech is not to be let out of our mouths?
What type of speech is to be uttered?
What is our speech to give unto those that hear?
**Text (Ephesians 4:30)
30 And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, in whom ye were sealed unto the day of redemption.
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:30)**
If the Holy Spirit can be grieved, is the Holy Spirit a personality, or some impersonal influence?
How can we grieve the Holy Spirit?
Where does the Holy Spirit live (1 Corinthians 6:19)?
Paraphrase
In all of life’s activities, such as working, speaking, etc., be not grieving the Holy Spirit of God, that divine one in whom we are sealed and stamped as God’s own until that day when our bodies are redeemed at the resurrection.
Notes (Ephesians 4:30)
We grieve the Holy Spirit by wicked actions and rotten speech. We grieve Him when we violate the commandments of the Spirit as given in Ephesians, chapter four. The Holy Spirit is sensitive. Holiness is always sensitive. Purity grows in sensitivity.
Israel grieved the Holy Spirit by their sins in the wilderness and in the land of Canaan (Isaiah 63:10).
How terrible it is to make the Holy Spirit which strengthens our inward man to be sorrowful and offended (Ephesians 3:16)!
See notes on Ephesians 1:13-14 for comments on being sealed with the Holy Spirit until the day of redemption.
Fact Questions
Whom are we not to grieve?
Unto what day are we sealed?
**Text (Ephesians 4:31-32)
31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and railing, be put away from you with all malice: 32 and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, even as God also in Christ forgave you.
Thought Questions (Ephesians 4:31-32)**
Is a Christian’s personality any concern to God?
Is it really possible to control feelings of bitterness, malice, etc.?
How should we forgive each other?
Paraphrase
In particular, grieve not the Holy Spirit by an evil disposition. Let all of the sharp, spiteful ways of feeling and speaking, along with anger, both in outbursts and temperament, and loud clamor, and blasphemous speech, be put away from you along with all ill will toward others. For these things displease the Spirit.
Having put away evil traits and dispositions, be kind one to another, tenderhearted, graciously forgiving each other, as also God in Christ has graciously forgiven you of even greater offences against Himself.
Notes (Ephesians 4:31-32)
Bitterness is sharpness, harshness, spitefulness, resentment.
Wrath is anger erupting, anger that boils over but soon subsides.
Anger is a settled disposition of indignation, an angry outlook upon everything.
Clamor is a loud outcry, loud speech based on ungoverned feelings.
Railing is blasphemy, slander, speech injurious to another’s good name, especially against God.
Malice is ill will, desire to injure.
These evils are common among many disciples of Christ, in spite of the fact that they are utterly contrary to our calling, contrary to the Father, and contrary to the Holy Spirit within us. They are old cruel hounds from past life, from which we should have escaped long ago, but find baying at our heels.
The word translated forgiving (Ephesians 4:32) does not simply mean to release from guilt, but to be gracious unto, be kind, be benevolent, pardon.
Kind This word is usually used to describe God. It describes one who is virtuous, good, mild, pleasant.
The motive for Christian goodness is different from that of worldly righteousness, Out in the world people are good because it pays. They get something in return. We are good and forgiving toward our fellow men because God has forgiven us. We realize how much we are indebted unto God. We therefore forgive the small offences our neighbors commit against us.
Fact Questions
Name the six things mentioned in Ephesians 4:31 that we are to put away from us.
Quote Ephesians 4:32 from memory.
**Text (Ephesians 5:1-2)
Be ye therefore imitators of God, as beloved children; 2 and walk in love, even as Christ also loved you, and gave himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for an odor of a sweet smell,
Thought Questions (Ephesians 5:1-2)**
What are we told about God’s actions in Ephesians 4:32 that we are here urged to imitate?
Which would God prefer, learning and greatness, or a childlike spirit? Can we have both?
What does it mean to walk in love?
Is there any difference between an offering and a sacrifice? Explain any difference.
What Bible incidents does the expression an odor of a sweet smell bring to your mind?
Paraphrase
Seeing that God in Christ has forgiven you, be ye therefore imitators of God’s forgiving mercy as beloved children who imitate the actions of their parents.
And live your lives in a disposition of love, even as Christ loved you, and gave himself up for you when he died on the cross, and made himself an offering and a sacrifice for an odor (savor) of a sweet smell unto God.
Notes (Ephesians 5:1-2)
Many types of offerings in the Old Testament are called a sweet savor (odor) unto the Lord: the burnt offering (Leviticus 1:9; Leviticus 1:13), the meal (meat) offering (Leviticus 2:3; Leviticus 2:9), offering of first fruits (Leviticus 2:12; Leviticus 2:16), peace offerings (Leviticus 3:5; Leviticus 3:16), and sin offerings (Leviticus 4:21). The trespass offering is not so described.
Noah offered up his offering unto the Lord after the flood, and the Lord smelled the sweet savor (Genesis 8:21). The critics have had much sport out of belittling such descriptions of God as if He were in human form (anthropomorphisms). But if the Scriptures say that God smelled the sweet savor, we are not so wise that we can describe what God did any more accurately. The important thing is that the offering pleased the Lord and made the worshipper accepted. Like the people of ancient times, we sorely need an offering that will be accepted of and well-pleasing to God. We are a people of unclean hands, minds and lips. We thank God that Christ is our sacrifice and odor of sweet smell, and that through His sacrifice we may be accepted by God.
The offering of Christ goes up to God for us in two respects:
(1)
A sacrifice for our transgressions. We deserve to die. Christ’s death is a substitute for our death. He bore the punishment which we justly deserve to bear.
(2)
An offering to be presented when the transgression has been put out (or expiated), as an act of worship.
Fact Questions
Whom are we to imitate? In what way are we to imitate Him?
Christ gave Himself up for us as two things. Name them.