Ephesians | Reading Plan + Study QuestionsSample

EPHESIANS 5

PAUL’S GUIDANCE FOR MUTUAL RESPECT

Calling believers to be imitators of God, Paul gives instructions for walking in love. Paul warns against sexual immorality, impure speech, and idolatry. Encouraging believers to avoid partnering with disobedient people, Paul wants the believers to be set apart as God’s light. Paul challenges followers of Jesus to examine their lives and look carefully at the decisions they are making. Because there is evil all around, Paul wants the believers to be cautious and thoughtful.

Paul gives directions for husbands and wives to honor each other. Husbands are called to be loving toward their wives and make sacrifices for them. Just as Christ cares for the Church, men are called to cherish and nourish their wives. In response, the wives are called to respect and trust their husbands. Although this verse is commonly criticized for misogyny, it is important to note that it also holds men to an exceptionally high standard. Women are called to follow the leadership of their husband, assuming they are following in the love and sacrifice of Christ. In a time when women were often considered property, Paul is advocating that men honor and value their wives, not oppress or diminish them.

STUDY QUESTIONS

Based on Ephesians 5:1-21, what does it mean to walk in love?

What instructions did Paul give to wives? What instruction did Paul give to husbands? Which do you think is a more difficult calling? Have you ever seen these verses distorted or taken out of context?

What other instructions did Paul provide regarding mutual respect?