What does Ephesians 6:5 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 6:5 exhorts servants (or slaves, in the historical context of the time) to obey their earthly masters with a respectful and sincere attitude, as they would obey Christ Himself.

This notion of obedience is not simply external compliance but calls for an inward submission and integrity, where actions are done not merely out of fear of punishment, but with the recognition that serving their masters becomes a way of serving Christ.

Thus, it elevates the mundane task of a servant to a spiritual act of worship.

Historical Context

When this letter was written by the Apostle Paul to the Christian community in Ephesus, slavery was a prevalent institution in the Roman Empire.

Slaves were considered property and had very few rights.

Early Christians came from various social strata, including both slaves and free individuals.

Paul's guidance was primarily designed to ensure that Christian slaves behaved in a manner that was consistent with their faith and testimony about Christ, likely so that their actions could serve as a witness to the transformative power of the Gospel.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse reflects several key concepts:

• Servitude to Christ: It represents the broader biblical theme of believers being servants of Christ.

Just as servants obey their earthly masters, Christians must obey their heavenly master.

• Work as Worship: There is an implicit teaching that work, irrespective of its nature, can be a form of worship if done with the right attitude and intention.

• Christian Testimony: The admonition for slaves to obey with fear and trembling corresponds to a humble demeanor that should characterize all believers. Such behavior was meant to shine forth the transformative power of being in Christ, possibly influencing others, including their masters.

Practical Applications

In today's terms, this passage has implications for the employer-employee relationship.

Essentially, it instructs people to perform their duties with sincerity and respect, as if they were serving God Himself.

This inherently discourages a resentful or lackadaisical approach to work and encourages one of wholehearted service and integrity.

Cross-References

• Colossians 3:22-24: “Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God.”

• 1 Peter 2:18: “Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward.”

• Titus 2:9-10: “Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again; Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.”

• 1 Timothy 6:1-2: “Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed.”

Language Study

• Servants (Greek: 'douloi'): Although translated as 'servants,' this term often refers to slaves who were legally owned by their masters.
• Obedient (Greek: 'hypakouo'): This term denotes attentive hearkening, listening, and complying with what is heard.
• Fear and Trembling (Greek: 'phobos kai tromos'): This phrase signifies a respectful dread and avoidance of offending, rather than a terror that paralyzes.
• Singleness (Greek: 'haplotēs'): Suggests simplicity and purity of motivation without ulterior motives or duplicity.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient cultures, such as Rome and Greece, the master-slave relationship was a recognized and ingrained part of societal structure.

Unlike some ancient religious and mythological texts that often exclude or marginalize slaves, biblical teachings offer instructions for both masters and slaves, thereby acknowledging their spiritual worth despite their social status, which was rather progressive for its time.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science research into workplace psychology may correlate with the principles implied in this verse, suggesting that intrinsic motivation and a sense of serving a higher purpose can significantly impact job satisfaction and performance, echoing the sentiments of serving "as unto Christ."

Commentaries

Different commentators have provided various insights into this verse:

• John Stott emphasizes that Christian slavery is an internal condition, implying that true freedom is found in Christ, while external circumstances are secondary.

• Matthew Henry points out that fidelity and sincerity in service are duties required by Christianity and display the influence of divine grace in a person's life.

• William Barclay suggests that the early Christians were to live exemplary lives within the existing social framework, transforming it not through rebellion but through living proof of the Christian way.

Commentators generally agree that the Ephesians were called to live out their earthly roles with heavenly standards, showcasing their new identity in Christ regardless of their earthly status or position.