Paul's Letter to the Ephesians | Ephesians 5:3-7 | J. Allen Mashburn

In our previous study of Ephesians 5, we explored verses 1-2, where we were instructed to be "followers of God, as dear children." This means we should emulate God in the same way a child mimics a parent. We are called to love as He loves, walk as He walks, speak as He speaks, and live as He lives—in essence, to reflect the Father in every aspect of our lives. This is a challenging directive, yet it is the standard we are urged to pursue daily.

 

In the verses we'll examine today, another command is given. Verse 7 states, "Be ye not therefore partakers with them." Just as we are to mirror the Lord in all possible ways, we are equally called to reject the behaviors, mindsets, and patterns of the world. This passage will guide us on what we should avoid as we navigate life in this world.

 

It’s all too simple to slip into the world’s routines and rhythms. It’s tempting to just go along with the crowd, adopting the ways of those who do not follow God. It’s easy to echo the sentiment of Ambrose of Milan: “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.”

 

Many Christians fall into this trap. We take on the world’s styles, its language, its values, its forms of entertainment—nearly everything it offers. Yet, the Lord calls us to stand apart, to be distinct from the world in every way.

 

The Lord Himself addressed this clearly: “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,” (2 Corinthians 6:17).

 

If we are to model ourselves after anyone, let it be the Lord. If we seek a pattern to follow, let us look no further than the Lord God Almighty.