What does Ephesians 5:16 mean?

Explanation

"Redeeming the time, because the days are evil" from Ephesians 5:16 is a call for the readers to live wisely amid a morally corrupt era.

The term "redeeming" here translates to making the best use of or buying back.

It suggests that time is a commodity that can be wasted or invested.

This verse encourages believers to grasp every opportunity to do good and grow in wisdom and character because the current age is fraught with moral decay and temptations.

The deeper meaning indicates the urgency of the Christian mission and the need for vigilance. Time is fleeting, and the surrounding evils can easily distract or derail devotion and good works.

Therefore, it implores the readers to act intently, consciously choosing to live out their faith in a manner that aligns with God's will, despite the pervasive negative influences in society.

Historical Context

Ephesians is an epistle traditionally attributed to the Apostle Paul, written around 60-62 A.D. while he was in prison in Rome. The early Christians at this time were minorities often living in hostile environments.

Many pagan cultures surrounded them with practices and ideologies conflicting with Christian teachings. The Roman Empire, characterized by various excesses and moral vices, created a challenging climate for Christians to maintain their faith and conduct.

Theological Insights

In Christianity, the concept of "redeeming the time" has been interpreted in different ways.

From a theological standpoint, it accentuates the sovereignty of God over time and the idea that followers of Christ are to be good stewards of the time given to them.

The verse also reflects the eschatological sense that believers are living in the "end times," which demands a higher standard of spiritual vigilance and activity.

Another viewpoint focuses on sanctification – the process of being made holy. This interpretation implies that making the most of time is integral to the sanctification process, as believers are continuously being shaped into the likeness of Christ.

Practical Applications

In today's context, redeeming the time can be interpreted as a call to prioritization and purposeful action.

Christians are encouraged to evaluate how they spend their time and to prioritize activities that align with their faith, such as service, prayer, and studying scripture.

It could also mean engaging in meaningful conversations, being present for others, and avoiding time-intensive activities that do not contribute positively to one's life or community.

Cross-References

• Colossians 4:5 - "Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time."
• Psalm 90:12 - "So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom."
• Proverbs 4:23 - "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."

Language Study

The key term "redeeming" in the original Greek is "ἐξαγοράζων" (exagorazón), which comes from "ἐκ" (ek, "out") and "ἀγοράζω" (agorazó, "to buy"). It carries the meaning of buying up for oneself, making the most of, or ransoming.

"Time" is translated from the Greek "καιρός" (kairos), which refers to a fixed or special occasion, a definite time, season, or opportunity rather than the more general concept of time, "χρόνος" (chronos).

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The idea of valuing time is shared across various cultural and religious traditions.

In Stoicism, the use of time is critical for living a virtuous life, similar to the call in Ephesians for ethical living.

In Judaism, time is viewed as a creation of God, and there is a focus on its sanctification through rituals and observances.

In Buddhism, the impermanence of all things suggests the importance of living mindfully and purposefully.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science, especially psychology, recognizes the importance of how time is perceived and used.

Effective time management and the pursuit of meaningful activities contribute to mental and emotional well-being.

This aligns with the Biblical notion of "redeeming the time" – the wise and intentional use of time is beneficial for personal growth and community well-being.

Commentaries

Various Bible commentators have reflected on Ephesians 5:16.

Matthew Henry's commentary suggests that the followers need to rescue or recover their time from the evil and improve it for the best purposes.

John Gill's exposition talks about "redeeming" in the sense of being diligent and active, making the most of every opportunity to do good, because of the wickedness and corruption in the world.

The Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary notes that, in keeping with the Jewish market transactions analogy, time should be bought out from the commonplace purposes of this world for the sacred purpose of the heavenly life.