1 Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. 3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.[a] 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7 Therefore do not be partners with them. 8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord. 11 Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. 12 It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. 13 But everything exposed by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light. 14 This is why it is said: “Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” 15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. 18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
There are 3 things I learned from this.
- Jesus is the Sacrifice.
- We Are Commanded to Abstain from All Things Associated with the World
- Be Filled with the Spirit and Sing to One Another, Giving Thanks to God
Let’s expand on each one to draw out their spiritual depth and practical implications:
1. Jesus Is the Sacrifice
This passage begins by reminding us of the ultimate act of love: “Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”
- Fragrant offering evokes imagery from the Old Testament, where sacrifices were made to God and described as pleasing aromas. Jesus’ death wasn’t just a tragic event—it was a deliberate, holy act of love that fulfilled the law and reconciled humanity to God.
- Sacrifice here means substitution. Jesus took our place, bearing the weight of sin so we could be free. This sets the tone for how we are to live: not for ourselves, but in response to that love.
- Implication: Our lives should reflect gratitude and reverence. We don’t earn salvation—we respond to it by walking in love, just as Christ did.
2. We Are Commanded to Abstain from All Things Associated with the World
The passage draws a sharp contrast between the way of the world and the way of God’s people:
- “Not even a hint…” of immorality, impurity, or greed. This isn’t about legalism—it’s about holiness. God’s people are called to be set apart, not just in actions but in heart and thought.
- Obscenity, foolish talk, coarse joking—these aren’t just bad manners; they’re symptoms of a deeper disconnect from the Spirit. Instead, we’re called to cultivate thanksgiving, which reorients our hearts toward God.
- Idolatry is redefined—not just bowing to statues, but placing anything (pleasure, wealth, self) above God. The warning is clear: those who live this way have no inheritance in God’s kingdom.
- Implication: Holiness isn’t optional—it’s the natural fruit of being transformed by Christ. We’re not just avoiding sin; we’re actively pursuing righteousness, truth, and goodness.
3. Be Filled with the Spirit and Sing to One Another, Giving Thanks to God
This is a beautiful vision of Spirit-filled community:
- “Be filled with the Spirit…” is a command, not a suggestion. It’s a continual posture of surrender, openness, and worship.
- Speaking to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs isn’t just poetic—it’s practical. Our words should build up, encourage, and reflect the joy of the Lord.
- Making music from your heart to the Lord suggests authenticity. Worship isn’t just external—it’s a heart overflowing with gratitude.
- Giving thanks always—not just when things go well. Gratitude is the antidote to bitterness, fear, and pride. It keeps our eyes fixed on God’s goodness.
- Implication: The Spirit-filled life is marked by joy, unity, and worship. It’s not just personal—it’s communal. We lift each other up, sing truth over one another, and live in constant gratitude.
Final Reflection
This passage is a call to transformation. It’s not just about behavior—it’s about identity.
We were once darkness, but now we are light in the Lord. That changes everything: how we speak, how we think, how we love, and how we live.
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