15"Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, 16making the most of your time, because the days are evil. 17So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is". Ephesians 5:15-17 (NASB)
Paul, summing up what he talked about in the previous section of his letter; emphasizing the importance of living according to the Spirit and not according to the flesh, now prepares to transition to his subsequent discussion on the filling of the Spirit (vs 18).
Paul is advising believers to “be careful how you walk1, not as unwise men but as wise.” This is a statement of fact, not a command. “Walk” symbolizes living a faithful life (Eph. 4:1,17; 5:2). Genuine wisdom is seen in living a godly life (cf. Col. 4:5), not in false teachers’ secret knowledge or godless freedom. This is Paul’s response to the deceptive teachings of the Gnostic false teachers who claim to have exclusive knowledge about God, leading people away from the truth in the gospel. These heretics misuse the idea of freedom to live ungodly lives.
In a parallel passage in Colossians 4:5-6 Paul exhorts believers to be wise in their interactions with non-believers and to make the most of every opportunity to share the gospel. He emphasizes the importance of representing the teachings of Christ through the way we speak and live when engaging with people who may not share our beliefs.
In essence, Paul advises believers to not only illuminate the darkness around them with their own light, but also to be mindful of their own behavior. They are encouraged to live as if in the presence of God at all times, and to wisely regulate their lives by following God’s will. Paul stresses the significance of living cautiously and learning from the Lord as the source of true wisdom (cf. Proverbs 2:6; 1 Corinthians 1:24).
In verse 16, Paul continues to say, “making the most of your time2 because the days are evil”. The word “making the most” or “redeeming” in KJV comes from the ancient Greek word “ἀγοράζω” (“agorázō”), which means “to buy” or “to purchase.” at the opportune time. In a broader sense. This concept was used in ancient Greek commerce and trade practices. Paul employs this idea in emphasizing the importance of using time wisely and purposefully. He is urging believers to seize the opportunities that come their way and to live their lives with intention, considering the moral challenges present in the world around them. Believers must be mindful about how time is utilized and the significance of making positive choices in the midst of difficult circumstances.
“do not be foolish” 3– Here in verse 17, Paul uses the word “foolish” which is a stronger word than the word “fools” or “unwise” in vs 15. The reason is because, the believers in Asia Minor were already listening to these false teachers, and he wanted them to stop once and for all! He emphasizes his previous warning, and then explains that being “wise” means to understand what the will of the Lord is – to know His purpose for us and for the world, and doing it.
The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of doing God’s will and trusting in Jesus. The Synoptic Gospels, Paul’s letters, and John’s writings all underscore the significance of aligning with God’s will, enduring challenges, and living a Spirit-filled life. Doing the will of God results in enjoying the “abundant life” (John 10:10) Jesus promises to everyone whosoever will.
Practical Application:
- Seek Spiritual Understanding: Regularly seek God’s will through prayer, meditation, and studying scripture, to align your life with His purpose.
- Live Wisely, Not Carelessly: Exercise discernment in your daily decisions and interactions, aiming to represent Christ’s teachings through your speech and conduct.
- Redeem the Time: Be intentional with your time, making the most of every opportunity to make positive choices and positively impact the world around you.
- Embrace God’s Will: Strive to understand and follow God’s will for your life, trusting in Jesus and persisting through challenges in a Spirit-filled life.
- This is a PRESENT ACTIVE INDICATIVE, not another PRESENT ACTIVE IMPERATIVE. It is a statement of fact, not a command. “Walk” is biblical imagery for lifestyle faith (cf. Eph. 4:1,17; 5:2). freebiblecommentary.org ↩︎
- This is a PRESENT MIDDLE PARTICIPLE. It is a marketing term which meant “to buy out something completely” at a good time or price. Believers are to take advantage of every spiritual opportunity (cf. Col. 4:2-6; 1 Pet. 3:15) because we know that the night is coming when no one can work (cf. John 9:4; 12:35). There is an open window in time for the gospel. We must seize the moment! freebiblecommentary.org ↩︎
- This is a PRESENT MIDDLE (deponent) IMPERATIVE with the NEGATIVE PARTICLE which usually means to stop an act in process. The believers in Asia Minor were being foolish because they were listening to the false teachers! freebiblecommentary.org ↩︎
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