Sermons on Ephesians 5:1

Ephesians 5:1 Interpretation:

Imitating God: The Power of Love and Gratitude (Beulah Baptist Church) offers a notably detailed and theologically rich interpretation of Ephesians 5:1, emphasizing that this is the only place in the Bible where the command to "be imitators of God" is stated so directly, though the principle is found throughout Scripture. The sermon highlights the Greek term for "imitator" (mim?t?s), drawing out the idea of mimicking or modeling one's life after God, especially as "beloved children." The preacher uses the metaphor of aroma and sacrifice, connecting the call to imitate God with Christ's sacrificial love, which is described as a "fragrant aroma" to God. This Old Testament language is unpacked to show that our sacrificial living, modeled after Christ, is pleasing to God and leaves a spiritual "aroma" in the world. The sermon also uniquely frames the call to imitation as a call to "walk in love," which is then contrasted with lists of vices, showing that imitation is not just about avoiding sin but about active, sacrificial love and gratitude. The preacher further interprets "walking" as a Hebraism for living or conducting one's life, emphasizing the regulatory, disciplined aspect of Christian living. This interpretation is distinguished by its focus on the linguistic, metaphorical, and sacrificial dimensions of the text, as well as its practical application of replacing sin with thankfulness and praise.

Walking in the Light: Lessons from Fanny Crosby (Grace Bible Church) interprets Ephesians 5:1 as a call to discipleship and sanctification, not just a one-time act of salvation. The sermon uses the analogy of children imitating their parents, and specifically references the process of sanctification as "becoming more like Christ." The preacher draws a distinction between the world's superficial love and the sacrificial love of Christ, which believers are called to imitate. The sermon also connects the imitation of God to practical holiness, purity, and wise living, emphasizing that being an imitator of God is a lifelong process that involves intentional effort and transformation. The analogy of a shopkeeper's bitterness is used to illustrate how failing to imitate God leads to destructive attitudes, while imitating God leads to love and forgiveness. This interpretation is unique in its focus on the ongoing, dynamic process of sanctification and the practical outworking of imitation in daily life.

God as Our Champion: Embracing Growth and Empathy (3W Church) interprets Ephesians 5:1 through the lens of spiritual growth and the daily striving to be more like Christ. The sermon uses the vivid analogy of children imitating their parents—such as daughters wearing their mother's heels or children following their parents around—to illustrate the naturalness and intentionality of imitation. The preacher emphasizes that while believers will never be sinless, they can strive to "sin less" each day, and that the closer one gets to God, the more one should reflect His character. The sermon also connects imitation to empathy, honor, and practical Christian living, urging believers to "walk in empathy," "outdo one another in showing honor," and to be patient in tribulation. This interpretation is notable for its focus on the incremental, humble, and relational aspects of imitation, as well as its use of contemporary and familial analogies to make the concept accessible.

Imitating God: Living as Loved Children (Desiring God) offers a unique interpretive angle by focusing on the logical connection of the word “therefore” in Ephesians 5:1, arguing that the imperative to imitate God is not simply a general moral command but is specifically rooted in the prior statement about God’s forgiveness. The sermon contends that Paul’s “therefore” is not a generic transition but a direct inference from God’s act of forgiving us in Christ, which both makes us God’s children and provides the model for our imitation. The preacher also distinguishes between the general love God has for the world and the “great love” with which he loves his adopted children, emphasizing that imitation flows from this particular, distinguishing love. This sermon also draws a nuanced distinction between imitating God as a burden versus as a privilege of being in the family, highlighting that imitation is a response to being loved, not a means to earn love.

Imitating God's Love in a Broken World (Alistair Begg) provides a notable interpretive expansion by delving into the Greek term for “imitators” (mim?tai), explaining that it means to “mimic” God, and by using the analogy of children copying their fathers to illustrate the familial and relational aspect of imitation. The sermon also explores the Greek word for “walk” (peripate?), emphasizing that “walking in love” is a continuous, practical lifestyle, not a one-time act. The preacher further clarifies that Paul’s exhortation is not a vague or sentimental call to be generally good, but a specific, demanding command rooted in the believer’s new identity as an adopted child of God, made possible by the Holy Spirit. The analogy of family honor and the visible representation of God’s character through his children is used to deepen the understanding of what it means to imitate God.

Imitating God: Walking in Love as His Children (Alistair Begg) and "Imitating God: Walking in Love and Responsibility" (Alistair Begg) both closely mirror the interpretive approach of "Imitating God's Love in a Broken World," using the same Greek word explanations, familial analogies, and the emphasis on adoption and Holy Spirit empowerment. They do not introduce new interpretive metaphors or linguistic details beyond what is already covered in "Imitating God's Love in a Broken World," and thus do not warrant separate analysis here.

Ephesians 5:1 Theological Themes:

Imitating God: The Power of Love and Gratitude (Beulah Baptist Church) introduces the distinct theological theme that thankfulness and gratitude are not just virtues but are active spiritual weapons against sin. The preacher frames gratitude as a "silver bullet" for temptation, teaching that replacing moments of sin with praise and thankfulness is a practical and immediate way to resist evil. This theme is further developed by connecting sacrificial living and giving to the Old Testament concept of a "fragrant aroma," showing that our acts of love and gratitude are pleasing to God in a deeply spiritual sense. The sermon also explores the idea that sanctification is God's will for every believer, and that God's will is a process, not a destination, emphasizing continual growth and transformation.

Walking in the Light: Lessons from Fanny Crosby (Grace Bible Church) adds the theological theme that discipleship is the curriculum for sanctification, and that true faith must produce works as evidence of transformation. The sermon also introduces the idea that imitation of God is not just about moral behavior but about embodying sacrificial love, purity, and wisdom. The preacher draws a sharp contrast between worldly love and Christ-like love, emphasizing that the latter is defined by sacrifice and self-giving. The sermon also explores the theme of idolatry as the root of many sins, teaching that impatience and the desire for immediate gratification lead to the worship of created things rather than the Creator.

God as Our Champion: Embracing Growth and Empathy (3W Church) presents the theme that spiritual growth is a lifelong journey marked by humility, self-awareness, and empathy. The preacher repeatedly affirms that "I have room to grow," modeling a posture of continual repentance and striving. The sermon also introduces the theme of empathy as a core aspect of imitating God, urging believers to "rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep." The idea that Christians should "outdo one another in showing honor" and live peaceably with all, as far as it depends on them, adds a relational and communal dimension to the theological understanding of imitation.

Imitating God: Living as Loved Children (Desiring God) introduces the distinct theological theme that the love referenced in “as loved children” is not merely general but is a “distinguishing, peculiar love” reserved for God’s elect, rooted in predestination and effected through Christ’s redemptive work. The sermon draws a sharp line between God’s universal love (as in John 3:16) and the “great love” (Ephesians 2) that results in spiritual adoption and new life, arguing that imitation of God is the natural outflow of this special, covenantal love. This theme is further developed by connecting the act of forgiveness (as the specific way we imitate God) to the very means by which we become children of God, making imitation a response to grace rather than a prerequisite for it.

Imitating God's Love in a Broken World (Alistair Begg) adds a new theological facet by emphasizing that the command to imitate God is both a privilege and a responsibility, with the world drawing conclusions about God’s character based on the conduct of his children. The sermon also uniquely stresses that the love believers are to imitate is defined by the cross—voluntary, propitiatory, and substitutionary—making the cross not just the means of salvation but the template for Christian love and imitation. This moves the discussion beyond generic love to a cruciform, sacrificial love that is both demanding and enabled by the Holy Spirit.

Ephesians 5:1 Historical and Contextual Insights:

Imitating God: The Power of Love and Gratitude (Beulah Baptist Church) provides historical and contextual insights by explaining the Old Testament background of the language used in Ephesians 5:1-2. The preacher unpacks the significance of "offering," "sacrifice," and "fragrant aroma," connecting these terms to the sacrificial system in Leviticus and Isaiah 53, where Christ's atoning death is described as a guilt offering that is pleasing to God. The sermon also explains the cultural context of immorality, impurity, and greed, noting that these vices were prevalent in the pagan world of Ephesus and that the call to holiness was radically countercultural. The preacher further explains the Hebraic concept of "walking" as a metaphor for living a disciplined, regulated life, drawing on Jewish and early Christian understandings of ethical conduct.

Imitating God's Love in a Broken World (Alistair Begg) provides detailed historical context about first-century Ephesus, describing it as a city steeped in magic, occult practices, and rampant sexual immorality. The sermon recounts the story from Acts 19, where the spread of the gospel threatened the economic and religious status quo, leading to riots instigated by the silversmiths who profited from idol-making. This context is used to highlight the radical nature of Paul’s call to live differently, showing that the exhortation to imitate God was not given in a morally neutral or supportive environment but in a setting deeply hostile to Christian values. The preacher also draws parallels between the challenges faced by the Ephesian church and those faced by contemporary Christians, emphasizing the timeless relevance of the command.

Imitating God: Walking in Love as His Children (Alistair Begg) and "Imitating God: Walking in Love and Responsibility" (Alistair Begg) repeat the same historical and contextual insights as "Imitating God's Love in a Broken World," without adding new details or perspectives.

Ephesians 5:1 Cross-References in the Bible:

Imitating God: The Power of Love and Gratitude (Beulah Baptist Church) references multiple passages to support and expand on Ephesians 5:1. 1 Peter 1:16 ("Be holy, for I am holy") is cited to show the biblical foundation for imitating God's holiness. Isaiah 53:10 is used to explain the concept of Christ as a guilt offering. Philippians 4:15-18 is referenced to illustrate how sacrificial giving is described as a "fragrant aroma" pleasing to God. Romans 12:9 ("hate what is evil, cling to what is good") and 2 Timothy 2:22 ("flee youthful lusts") are used to reinforce the call to holiness and separation from sin. 1 John 1:9, James 4:7, and Matthew 5:27-29 are cited to provide practical steps for repentance, resistance, and fleeing from sin. Ephesians 4:15 ("speak the truth in love"), Ephesians 4:29 ("let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth"), and Ephesians 5:11 ("do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them") are used to elaborate on the practical outworking of imitation and holiness. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 ("in everything give thanks") and Psalm 119:71 ("it is good for me that I was afflicted, that I may learn your statutes") are referenced to support the theme of thankfulness in all circumstances.

Walking in the Light: Lessons from Fanny Crosby (Grace Bible Church) references 1 Peter 1:15-16 to emphasize the call to holiness, Leviticus 1:9 to explain the "sweet smelling aroma" of sacrifice, Genesis 2-3 to illustrate the dynamics of abundance, lack, temptation, and shame, and Romans 12:2 to urge transformation by the renewing of the mind. The sermon also cites Luke 6:45 and Exodus 20:7 to discuss the importance of speech and not taking the Lord's name in vain, and Romans 1:18 to explain the suppression of truth by the "sons of disobedience."

God as Our Champion: Embracing Growth and Empathy (3W Church) references Romans 12:9-18 extensively to unpack the practical implications of imitating God, including abhorring evil, showing honor, living in harmony, and being patient in tribulation. Psalm 34:13-14 and Psalm 97:10 are cited to reinforce the call to hate evil. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 ("pray without ceasing") and Isaiah 40:31 ("those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength") are used to encourage perseverance and constant prayer. The sermon also references John 16 (Jesus' teaching on tribulation), 2 Corinthians 5:17 ("if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation"), and other passages to support its themes.

Imitating God: Living as Loved Children (Desiring God) references several passages to support and expand the meaning of Ephesians 5:1. Ephesians 4:32 is used to show the immediate context of forgiveness, while Ephesians 1 is cited to explain the connection between adoption, redemption, and forgiveness. Ephesians 2 is referenced to highlight the “great love” with which God loves his children, and 1 John 3:1 is brought in to underscore the wonder of being called children of God. John 3:16 is used to distinguish between God’s general love for the world and his particular love for his adopted children. These cross-references collectively serve to root the command to imitate God in the narrative of redemption, adoption, and distinguishing love, rather than in generic moralism.

Imitating God's Love in a Broken World (Alistair Begg) draws on several biblical cross-references to deepen the understanding of Ephesians 5:1. The sermon references Jesus’ words in the Sermon on the Mount (“Be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect”) to show the high standard of imitation. It also refers to John’s Gospel, where Jesus prays for his followers to be kept from the evil one while remaining in the world, and to John’s letters, which emphasize that the invisible God is made visible through the love of Christians. Galatians is cited to illustrate Paul’s personal experience of Christ’s love (“the Son of God loved me and gave himself for me”), and Romans is referenced to highlight the wonder of Christ dying for sinners. The preacher also alludes to Old Testament sacrificial imagery to explain the propitiatory and substitutionary nature of Christ’s love, making the cross the central reference point for understanding and practicing imitation.

Ephesians 5:1 Christian References outside the Bible:

Imitating God: The Power of Love and Gratitude (Beulah Baptist Church) explicitly references contemporary Christian figures such as Kosti Hinn and Justin Peters, commending them for their work in exposing the errors of prosperity theology and helping believers find true freedom in Christ. The preacher also mentions Pastor Jay Dennis and his ministry to help men break free from pornography, recommending his resources as practical tools for sanctification and victory over sin. These references are used to illustrate the importance of discernment, accountability, and practical help in the pursuit of holiness.

Walking in the Light: Lessons from Fanny Crosby (Grace Bible Church) explicitly references Dietrich Bonhoeffer, quoting him as saying, "Christianity without discipleship is always Christianity without Christ," to emphasize the necessity of discipleship for genuine faith. The sermon also quotes Tony Evans: "Real faith works. It is not static. It is dynamic, producing action and fruit in the life of the believer." Warren Wiersbe is cited for his insight that "two indications of a person's character are what makes him laugh and what makes him weep." Augustine is quoted on idolatry: "Idolatry is worshiping anything that ought to be used or using anything that ought to be worshiped." These references are used to deepen the theological and practical application of Ephesians 5:1.

Imitating God's Love in a Broken World (Alistair Begg) explicitly references several Christian authors and thinkers in connection with Ephesians 5:1. J.B. Phillips’ paraphrase is cited to illustrate the familial aspect of imitation (“as children copy their fathers, you as God’s children are to copy him”). The Paul Overstreet song “I’m Seeing My Father in Me” is used as a cultural touchstone for the idea of children naturally imitating their parents. Augustine is quoted as saying, “the cross is the pulpit from which God preaches his love to the world,” reinforcing the centrality of the cross in defining divine love. Eugene Peterson’s paraphrase in The Message is used to emphasize the practical, relational aspect of imitation (“watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn their behavior from their parents”). James S. Stewart, a Presbyterian preacher, is referenced for his critique of “a harmlessly vague and a hopelessly accommodating Christianity,” warning against diluting the gospel’s demands. These references collectively enrich the sermon's interpretation and application of Ephesians 5:1 by drawing on a wide range of Christian thought and expression.

Ephesians 5:1 Illustrations from Secular Sources:

Walking in the Light: Lessons from Fanny Crosby (Grace Bible Church) uses several detailed secular illustrations to illuminate Ephesians 5:1. The preacher tells a story of two rival shopkeepers whose bitterness leads to self-destructive choices, illustrating the dangers of failing to imitate God's love and forgiveness. The sermon also references the Beatles' song "All You Need Is Love," contrasting its superficial message with the sacrificial love of Christ. Additionally, the preacher shares a personal story about scuba diving at night, using the experience of total darkness and the necessity of light to illustrate the importance of walking in the light of Christ. The analogy of cell phone usage and idolatry is also used, challenging listeners to evaluate how much time they spend on their phones compared to time with God.

God as Our Champion: Embracing Growth and Empathy (3W Church) employs a variety of secular and everyday life illustrations to make Ephesians 5:1 relatable. The preacher uses the analogy of children imitating their parents by wearing their shoes or following them around, making the concept of imitation tangible. The sermon references the use of GPS and MapQuest to illustrate the need for direction in life, paralleling spiritual guidance with modern navigation tools. The preacher also shares a story about a student lying to a teacher about missing school for a birthday trip to Disney, highlighting the ease with which people justify small sins. The sermon references the film "Rocky" and the character Drago to describe the feeling of being convicted by Scripture, making the experience of spiritual challenge vivid. The preacher also tells a story about a family member's experience with a restaurant order gone wrong, using it to illustrate the importance of empathy and grace in everyday interactions. The mention of fantasy football leagues and the value of celebrating others' achievements further grounds the message in contemporary culture.

Imitating God's Love in a Broken World (Alistair Begg) uses a detailed illustration from Robert Harris’s novel “Conclave,” quoting the character Cardinal Scarvici: “We do not need a church that will move with the world but a church that will move the world.” This secular literary reference is employed to highlight the countercultural nature of the church’s calling, paralleling Paul’s exhortation to the Ephesians to live differently in a hostile environment. The sermon also uses the everyday image of school buses and a mother sending her child off for the first time as an analogy for the depth of parental love, which is then contrasted with the even greater love of the heavenly Father. Additionally, the preacher references the common parental experience of instructing children on how to behave at a birthday party, using it as a metaphor for the responsibility and privilege of representing the family’s honor—translating this to the Christian’s role in representing God to the world. These secular illustrations serve to make the biblical command relatable and vivid for contemporary listeners.