Ephesians 5:8–21

Walking in the Light: A Call to Kingdom Living

Bible Passage: Ephesians 5:8–21

Summary: Ephesians 5:8-21 calls Christians to walk in the light, contrasting the light of Christ with the darkness of sin, emphasizing the necessity of wisdom and mutual encouragement within the church community.

Application: This passage challenges Christians to reflect on their lifestyle choices and community interactions, encouraging them to live in a way that glorifies God and shines His light in a dark world. It reminds believers that their actions have a profound impact on themselves and others, helping them navigate struggles with sin and despair.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that walking in the light involves a deliberate lifestyle change, empowered by the Holy Spirit, where believers reject sin and embrace the truth of the gospel. It also emphasizes the importance of community in fostering spiritual growth.

How this passage could point to Christ: This passage ultimately points to Christ as the Light of the World (John 8:12 “Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” ), who empowers believers to walk in light and dispel darkness. In the broader biblical narrative, Christ's work transforms lives from darkness to light, showing His ongoing redemptive work in the hearts of believers.

Big Idea: Living as children of light means actively seeking to reflect Christ in our daily lives, which requires intentional choices and reliance on the Holy Spirit to navigate the challenges of a dark world.

Recommended Study: As you prepare, consider delving into the cultural background of Ephesus to understand the challenges the early church faced. Use your Logos library to explore commentaries that discuss the contrasts between light and darkness in the Greco-Roman context. Pay attention to the original Greek terms for 'light' and 'darkness' and how they inform the text's implications for Christian ethics and community practices.

1. Discern the Light

Ephesians 5:8–10 “For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.”

Perhaps you could illustrate how walking as children of light involves discerning what is pleasing to the Lord. Emphasize how, through Christ, we have been transformed from darkness to light and are now called to live in a way that reflects that transformation. Encourage the congregation to evaluate their daily choices and actions in accordance with this new identity.

Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible Chapter 5

8. sometimes—“once.” The emphasis is on “were.” Ye ought to have no fellowship with sin, which is darkness, for your state as darkness is now PAST. Stronger than “in darkness” (

2. Expose the Darkness

Ephesians 5:11–14 “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret. But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.”

You could explore how exposing the darkness is essential in living out our faith. This passage challenges believers to gently but firmly highlight what is sinful, both within ourselves and our community, using Christ's example of truth and grace. Stress the importance of awakening to righteousness, shedding light on sin through Christ's empowering presence.

Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible Chapter 5

unfruitful works of darkness—Sins are terminated in themselves, and therefore are called “works,” not “fruits” (

3. Exercise Wisdom

Ephesians 5:15-17

Consider sharing how walking wisely involves understanding the Lord's will in our everyday context. This wisdom is obtained through a close relationship with Jesus, who exemplifies divine wisdom. Encourage intentional living and making the most of every opportunity to reflect Christ, urging the congregation to avoid mindless decisions that lead us away from God's light.

4. Engage the Spirit

Ephesians 5:18

Maybe suggest that being filled with the Spirit is key to walking in the light. Compare and contrast this filling with drunkenness, highlighting that a Spirit-filled life leads to clarity and purpose, much unlike the disorientation caused by alcohol. Encourage regular engagement with the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live as Christ's ambassadors.

5. Encourage the Community

Ephesians 5:19-21

You might focus on how encouraging one another in the community of faith is critical for spiritual growth. These verses call for mutual edification through speakings such as songs and hymns. Christ is central in uniting us in worship and gratitude. Foster a culture of encouragement and submission, which reflects Christ's humility and love.