What does Ephesians 5:7 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 5:7 reads, "Be not ye therefore partakers with them." In this verse, the Apostle Paul urges the readers not to associate themselves with certain behaviors and practices of non-believers that he previously mentioned.

Specifically, he is referring to various forms of immorality, impurity, and greed, which he notes should not even be named among those who follow Christ (Ephesians 5:3).

The verse conveys a deeper meaning that encourages believers to live a life that is distinctly different from that of non-believers, suggesting that their actions should reflect their identity as children of light (Ephesians 5:8).

Historical Context

The book of Ephesians was written by the Apostle Paul around A.D. 60 while he was imprisoned in Rome.

The letter was addressed to the church in Ephesus, a major city in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), which was culturally and religiously diverse.

Ephesus was known for its worship of the goddess Artemis, and it was common for the city's inhabitants to engage in activities and rituals that Paul and other early Christians considered to be inconsistent with the teachings of Jesus.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives offer various insights on this verse.

From a traditional evangelical viewpoint, the verse is a clear call to personal holiness and the separation from worldly practices.

Catholics might view this in light of the idea of “avoiding occasions of sin,” which means steering clear of situations or relationships that might lead one to sin.

Liberation theologians could interpret this as an imperative to the church to not participate in unjust systems that oppress the marginalized, ensuring that their actions reflect the justice and purity of God's kingdom.

Practical Applications

The teachings of this verse have practical applications in terms of personal behavior and community standards.

For believers today, it suggests a thoughtful approach to everyday decisions and interactions, avoiding ways of living that are contrary to Christian values.

This can extend to the kinds of entertainment one chooses, the nature of one’s business dealings, and the relationships one forms and maintains.

It can also inform community standards in churches, guiding collective actions and social stances.

Cross-References

• 2 Corinthians 6:14 - "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?"
• 1 Thessalonians 5:22 - "Abstain from all appearance of evil."
• 1 Corinthians 15:33 - "Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners."
• 1 Peter 4:3-4 - "For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries: Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you:"

Language Study

The key phrase "partakers with them" is translated from the Greek "συμμέτοχοι" (symmetochi), which means to become a companion or partner in a particular activity, implying sharing in actions or behaviors.

The negative particle "μή" (me) is a strong imperative that forbids the action of sharing or associating in the context used.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparison to other ancient religions, such as those practiced in Ephesus, Paul's admonition to not be "partakers" with non-believers reflects a significant departure from the syncretism that was often present in the Greco-Roman world.

In contrast, other religious practices of the time might have encouraged participation in a variety of religious rites and festivals as a way of placating different gods or joining in the civic life, whereas Paul insists on exclusivity to Christian ethical and moral standards.

Scientific Perspectives

While this verse does not directly relate to scientific perspectives, modern understandings of psychology and social science may affirm the principle that behaviors and company influence individual attitudes and actions.

Studies on moral development and social conformity illustrate that association with a group often impacts one's norms and values, which can reflect the idea that partaking with certain groups can lead to assimilation of certain behaviors.

commentaries

Various Bible commentators offer perspectives on this verse:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes the call to purity and notes that the saints should not associate with those indulging in the works of darkness.
• The MacArthur Study Bible stresses the importance of believers living as children of light, with no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness.
• The ESV Study Bible comments on the stark contrast Paul draws between children of God and those engaged in practices against God's will, suggesting a call to discernment and separation from such actions.
• The New International Commentary on the New Testament explores the social implications of this verse for the early Christian community, urging it to visibly differ from the surrounding pagan culture.