Ephesians (W9D1) God's Example
Week 9. Monday: God’s Example
PRAY: Ask God to speak to you from His Word.
READ: Ephesians 5:1-2
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.
UNDERSTAND: get a deeper understanding of the key words
Follow God’s Example (Greek: ginomai mimētēs theos): be imitators of God
Growing spiritually to become more like Christ is the goal.
In this context, Paul is referring to imitating God’s holiness (Matthew 5:48).
Walk (Greek: peripateō): to conduct oneself, to live
In Greek, this work refers to continual, daily action.
Walking in love cannot be a one-time action, it must be continuous.
Way of Love (Greek: en agapē): the way of unconditional love
We are called to love others the way that God loves us.
Christ’s love for us is clearly seen in John 10:7-18.
Gave Himself Up (Greek: paradidōmi heautou): freely offered Himself
God’s example is to freely give Himself to others.
God calls us to follow His example and give ourselves away (John 15:13).
Fragrant Offering (Greek: euōdia prosphora): sweet-smelling aroma
Paul is using a word picture from the Old Testament offerings in the temple.
The offerings would have a unique aroma symbolizing that God is pleased.
Paul is saying that Christ’s death on the cross pleased and glorified God.
Sacrifice (Greek: thysia): surrendered or devoted object or person
Christ’s death was the ultimate sacrifice for sin.
Christ finished God’s work of redemption once and for all (Hebrews 10:11-14)
APPLY: What is this passage calling me to do?
Christ gave Himself for God’s glory and our good. That is the ultimate example to follow in our daily lives. We have to find ways to sacrifice our selfishness for the sake of God’s glory and the good of others. This is the goal of the Christian life.
What does it mean to walk in the way of love?
In what ways should you give yourself up for the sake of others?
PRAY: Ask God to show you more ways to give yourself up for the sake of others.
