Ephesians 5

“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil” (15-16). The Ephesians faced influences tempting them to return to a ‘normal’ life of sexual immorality, coarse joking, greed, and family conflict (3-5). Instead, Paul urged them to cultivate a different kind of community. “Be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord” (19).

“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord” (8). Through Christ, God rescues us so we can live differently, as “children of light” (8), shining brightly in a dark world.