Ephesians 5:20
always giving thanks to God the Father for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
always
The Greek word for "always" is "pantote," which signifies a continuous, unbroken practice. This word emphasizes the perpetual nature of gratitude that believers are called to maintain. In a historical context, this reflects the early Christian community's understanding of life as a constant act of worship and thanksgiving, regardless of circumstances. The call to "always" give thanks challenges believers to adopt an attitude of gratitude that transcends situational happiness, rooting their joy in the eternal and unchanging nature of God.

giving thanks
The phrase "giving thanks" comes from the Greek "eucharisteo," which is the root of the word "Eucharist," a term used for the Lord's Supper. This connection highlights the sacramental nature of thanksgiving, suggesting that gratitude is not merely a verbal expression but a profound spiritual act that aligns believers with the grace of God. Historically, thanksgiving was a central element of Jewish worship, and the early Christians adopted and expanded this practice, recognizing it as a vital response to God's grace and provision.

to God the Father
This phrase underscores the relational aspect of Christian thanksgiving. "God the Father" emphasizes the intimate and personal relationship believers have with God, who is not a distant deity but a loving parent. Theologically, this reflects the Trinitarian understanding of God, where the Father is the source of all blessings. In the historical context of Ephesus, where various deities were worshiped, this affirmation of God as Father would have been a radical declaration of monotheism and the personal nature of the Christian faith.

for everything
The Greek word "hyper panton" translates to "for everything," indicating a comprehensive scope of gratitude. This phrase challenges believers to recognize God's sovereignty and goodness in all circumstances, whether perceived as good or bad. Historically, this reflects the early Christian understanding of God's providence, where every aspect of life is seen as under God's control and worthy of thanksgiving. This perspective encourages believers to trust in God's ultimate plan and purpose, even amidst trials.

in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ
The phrase "in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ" signifies the authority and mediation of Jesus in the believer's relationship with God. The name of Jesus is central to Christian identity and practice, representing His power, presence, and redemptive work. Historically, invoking the name of Jesus was a declaration of allegiance and faith in His lordship, especially in a context where other lords and powers were acknowledged. This phrase reminds believers that their access to God and their ability to give thanks is made possible through Jesus, who reconciles them to the Father and empowers them to live lives of gratitude.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the letter to the Ephesians, Paul was a key figure in the early Christian church, known for his missionary journeys and theological teachings.

2. Ephesus
A major city in Asia Minor where the early church was established. It was known for its diverse culture and the Temple of Artemis.

3. God the Father
The first person of the Trinity, to whom believers are instructed to give thanks.

4. Jesus Christ
The Son of God, through whom believers have access to God the Father and in whose name thanks are given.

5. The Early Church
The community of believers in Ephesus and beyond, who were recipients of Paul's teachings and letters.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Gratitude
Gratitude is a central aspect of Christian life, reflecting a heart aligned with God's will.

Giving thanks in all circumstances demonstrates trust in God's sovereignty and goodness.

The Role of Jesus Christ
Our relationship with God the Father is mediated through Jesus Christ, emphasizing the importance of His role in our spiritual lives.

Praying in Jesus' name signifies acknowledging His authority and our dependence on Him.

Continuous Thanksgiving
The phrase "always giving thanks" suggests a lifestyle of gratitude, not limited to specific occasions or feelings.

Cultivating a habit of thanksgiving can transform our perspective and interactions with others.

Thanksgiving in All Things
Recognizing God's hand in every situation, whether good or challenging, helps us maintain a positive outlook and strengthens our faith.

This practice encourages us to look for God's purpose and provision in every aspect of life.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the practice of giving thanks in all circumstances impact your daily life and relationship with God?

2. In what ways can you incorporate more gratitude into your prayer life, following the example set in Ephesians 5:20?

3. How does understanding the role of Jesus Christ in our prayers enhance your approach to thanksgiving?

4. Reflect on a challenging situation in your life. How can you find reasons to give thanks to God in that context?

5. Compare Ephesians 5:20 with Philippians 4:6 and 1 Thessalonians 5:18. What common themes do you find, and how can they be applied to your spiritual growth?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Philippians 4:6
This verse encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving, highlighting the importance of gratitude in prayer.

1 Thessalonians 5:18
Paul instructs believers to give thanks in all circumstances, reinforcing the idea of continual gratitude.

Colossians 3:17
This verse emphasizes doing everything in the name of Jesus, similar to Ephesians 5:20, and giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
A Day of ThanksgivingC. Nevins.Ephesians 5:20
Common MerciesN. Macleod, D. D.Ephesians 5:20
Praise At All TimesA. Fuller.Ephesians 5:20
Praise in DeathRomaine.Ephesians 5:20
Thankfulness to GodJ. Lathrop, D. D.Ephesians 5:20
ThanksgivingW.F. Adeney Ephesians 5:20
The Deity of Christian ThanksgivingW. Jay.Ephesians 5:20
The Duty and Scope of ThanksgivingH. Melvill, B. D.Ephesians 5:20
The Duty of Giving ThanksEphesians 5:20
The Duty of Giving Thanks to GodBishop Harvey Goodwin.Ephesians 5:20
The Duty of ThanksgivingI. Barrow, D. D.Ephesians 5:20
The Music of the Christian LifeW. V. Robinson, B. A.Ephesians 5:20
Varieties of PraiseP. B. Power.Ephesians 5:20
Exhortation to Exercise Wisdom in Regard to Our Manner of WalkR. Finlayson Ephesians 5:15-21
Two Worlds of One RaceD. Thomas Ephesians 5:15-21
Inspiration, Spirituous and SpiritualR.M. Edgar Ephesians 5:17-21
The True Antidote to DrunkennessT. Croskery Ephesians 5:18-21
People
Christians, Ephesians, Paul
Places
Ephesus
Topics
Always, Christ, Giving, Praise, Presented, Thanks
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Ephesians 5:20

     2224   Christ, the Lord
     2369   Christ, responses to
     4019   life, believers' experience

Ephesians 5:18-20

     3218   Holy Spirit, and praise
     3251   Holy Spirit, filling with
     7028   church, life of
     8666   praise, manner and methods

Ephesians 5:19-20

     5420   music
     7960   singing
     8352   thankfulness

Ephesians 5:20-21

     5763   attitudes, positive to God

Library
January 1. "Redeeming the Time" (Eph. v. 16).
"Redeeming the time" (Eph. v. 16). Two little words are found in the Greek version here. They are translated "ton kairon" in the revised version, "Buying up for yourselves the opportunity." The two words ton kairon mean, literally, the opportunity. They do not refer to time in general, but to a special point of time, a juncture, a crisis, a moment full of possibilities and quickly passing by, which we must seize and make the best of before it has passed away. It is intimated that there are not
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

June 27. "Be Filled with the Spirit" (Eph. v. 18).
"Be filled with the Spirit" (Eph. v. 18). Some of the effects of being filled with the Spirit are: 1. Holiness of heart and life. This is not the perfection of the human nature, but the holiness of the divine nature dwelling within. 2. Fulness of joy so that the heart is constantly radiant. This does not depend on circumstances, but fills the spirit with holy laughter in the midst of the most trying surroundings. 3. Fulness of wisdom, light and knowledge, causing us to see things as He sees them.
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

April 22. "Christ is the Head" (Eph. v. 23).
"Christ is the head" (Eph. v. 23). Often we want people to pray for us and help us, but always defeat our object when we look too much to them and lean upon them. The true secret of union is for both to look upon God, and in the act of looking past themselves to Him they are unconsciously united. The sailor was right when he saw the little boy fall overboard and waited a minute before he plunged to his rescue. When the distracted mother asked him in agony why he had waited so long, he sensibly replied:
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

Third Sunday in Lent
Text: Ephesians 5, 1-9. 1 Be ye therefore imitators of God, as beloved children; 2 and walk in love, even as Christ also loved you, and gave himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for an odor of a sweet smell. 3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as becometh saints; 4 nor filthiness, nor foolish talking, or jesting, which are not befitting: but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this ye know of a surety, that no fornicator, nor unclean
Martin Luther—Epistle Sermons, Vol. II

Twentieth Sunday after Trinity the Careful Walk of the Christian.
Text: Ephesians 5, 15-21. 15 Look therefore carefully how ye walk [See then that ye walk circumspectly], not as unwise, but as wise; 16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 17 Wherefore be ye not foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18 And be not drunken with wine, wherein is riot, but be filled with the Spirit; 19 speaking one to another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; 20 giving thanks always for all things
Martin Luther—Epistle Sermons, Vol. III

God's Imitators
Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children'--Eph. v. 1. The Revised Version gives a more literal and more energetic rendering of this verse by reading, 'Be ye, therefore, imitators of God, as beloved children.' It is the only place in the Bible where that bold word 'imitate' is applied to the Christian relation to God. But, though the expression is unique, the idea underlies the whole teaching of the New Testament on the subject of Christian character and conduct. To be like God, and
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

Pleasing Christ
'Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.'--Eph. v. 10. These words are closely connected with those which precede them in the 8th verse--'Walk as children of light.' They further explain the mode by which that commandment is to be fulfilled. They who, as children of light, mindful of their obligations and penetrated by its brightness, seek to conform their active life to the light to which they belong, are to do so by making experiment of, or investigating and determining, what is 'acceptable
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

Unfruitful Works of Darkness
'And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.'--Eph. v. 11. We have seen in a former sermon that 'the fruit,' or outcome, 'of the Light' is a comprehensive perfection, consisting in all sorts and degrees of goodness and righteousness and truth. Therefore, the commandment, 'Walk as children of the light,' sums up all Christian morality. Is there need, then, for any additional precept? Yes; for Christian people do not live in an empty world. If there were
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

Sleepers at Noonday
'Wherefore He saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light,'--Eph. v. 14. This is the close of a short digression about 'light.' The 'wherefore' at the beginning of my text seems to refer to the whole of the verses that deal with that subject. It is as if the Apostle had said, 'I have been telling you about light and its blessed effects. Now I tell you how you may win it for yours. The condition on which it is to be received by men is that they awake
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

What Children of Light Should Be
'Walk as children of light.'--Eph. v. 8. It was our Lord who coined this great name for His disciples. Paul's use of it is probably a reminiscence of the Master's, and so is a hint of the existence of the same teachings as we now find in the existing Gospels, long before their day. Jesus Christ said, 'Believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light'; and Paul gives substantially the same account of the way by which a man becomes a Son of the Light when he says, in the words preceding
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

The Fruit of the Light
'The fruit of the light is in all goodness and righteousness and truth.'--Eph. v. 9 (R.V.). This is one of the cases in which the Revised Version has done service by giving currency to an unmistakably accurate and improved reading. That which stands in our Authorised Version, 'the fruit of the Spirit' seems to have been a correction made by some one who took offence at the violent metaphor, as he conceived it, that 'light' should bear 'fruit' and desired to tinker the text so as to bring it into
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

Paul's Reasons for Temperance
'And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. 12. For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret. 13. But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. 14. Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. 15. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, 16. Redeeming the time, because the days
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

Redeeming the Time
'See, then, that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.'--Eph. v. 15, 16. Some of us have, in all probability, very little more 'time' to 'redeem.' Some of us have, in all probability, the prospect of many years yet to live. For both classes my text presents the best motto for another year. The most frivolous among us, I suppose, have some thoughts when we step across the conventional boundary that seems to separate the unbroken sequence
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

On Marriage.
TEXT: EPH. v. 22-31. IN completing lately the annual round of our Christian holy-days, I expressed to you the wish that the holy emotions which our hearts experience at such seasons might not pass away with them; but that the impressions then made might accompany us during the other half of the year, so that without any extraordinary festival incitement we might constantly retain a more lively sense of communion with the Redeemer, and a fuller enjoyment of what the eternal Father has done through
Friedrich Schleiermacher—Selected Sermons of Schleiermacher

The Light of God
Preached for the Chelsea National Schools.] Ephesians v. 13. All things which are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever is made manifest is light. This is a noble text, a royal text; one of those texts which forbid us to clip and cramp Scripture to suit any narrow notions of our own; which open before us boundless vistas of God's love, of human knowledge, of the future of mankind. There are many such texts, many more than we fancy; but this is one which is especially valuable
Charles Kingsley—Sermons for the Times

Against Foolish Talking and Jesting.
"Nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient."-- Ephes. v.4. Moral and political aphorisms are seldom couched in such terms that they should be taken as they sound precisely, or according to the widest extent of signification; but do commonly need exposition, and admit exception: otherwise frequently they would not only clash with reason and experience, but interfere, thwart, and supplant one another. The best masters of such wisdom are wont to interdict things, apt by unseasonable
Isaac Barrow—Sermons on Evil-Speaking, by Isaac Barrow

Sensual and Spiritual Excitement.
Preached August 4, 1850. SENSUAL AND SPIRITUAL EXCITEMENT. "Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit."--Ephesians v. 17, 18. There is evidently a connection between the different branches of this sentence--for ideas cannot be properly contrasted which have not some connection--but what that connection is, is not at first sight clear. It almost appears like a profane and irreverent juxtaposition
Frederick W. Robertson—Sermons Preached at Brighton

Members of Christ
"For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones."--Ephesians 5:30. YESTERDAY, when I had the painful task of speaking at the funeral of our dear friend, Mr. William Olney, I took the text which I am going to take again now. I am using it again because I did not then really preach from it at all, but simply reminded you of a favorite expression of his, which I heard from his lips many times in prayer. He very frequently spoke of our being one with Christ in "living, loving, lasting
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 38: 1892

Living, Loving, Lasting Union
With new portraits of Pastor C. H. Spurgeon and Mr. William Olney "For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones--Ephesians 5:30. BEFORE the funeral, at Norwood Cemetery, of the late Mr. William Olney, senior deacon of the church at the metropolitan Tabernacle, a service was held in the Tabernacle. The building was crowded with sympathizing friends, who came to testify the affection they bore to the beloved deacon who had been so suddenly called from their midst. The senior Pastor
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 38: 1892

Wary Walking.
(Twentieth Sunday after Trinity.) EPHESIANS v. 15. "See then that ye walk circumspectly." Some people tell us that salvation is the easiest thing in the world. We have only to feel that we believe in Jesus Christ, and all is done. Now neither Jesus Christ Himself, nor the Apostles whom He sent to teach, tell us anything of the kind. On the contrary, our Saviour, whilst He dwells on the fulness and freedom of salvation, offered to all without money, and without price, tells us that many are called,
H. J. Wilmot-Buxton—The Life of Duty, a Year's Plain Sermons, v. 2

Tenth Day. Love to the Brethren.
"And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us."--Eph. v. 2. "Jesus," says a writer, "came from heaven on the wings of love." It was the element in which he moved and walked. He sought to baptize the world afresh with it. When we find Him teaching us by love to vanquish an enemy, we need not wonder at the tenderness of His appeals to the brethren to "love one another." Like a fond father impressing his children, how the Divine Teacher lingers over the lesson, "This is My commandment!" If
John R. Macduff—The Mind of Jesus

"For to be Carnally Minded is Death; but to be Spiritually Minded is Life and Peace. "
Rom. viii. 6.--"For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace." It is true, this time is short, and so short that scarce can similitudes or comparisons be had to shadow it out unto us. It is a dream, a moment, a vapour, a flood, a flower, and whatsoever can be more fading or perishing; and therefore it is not in itself very considerable, yet in another respect it is of all things the most precious, and worthy of the deepest attention and most serious consideration;
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

"If So be that the Spirit of God Dwell in You. Now if any Man have not the Spirit of Christ, He is None of His. "
Rom. viii. 9.--"If so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his." There is a great marriage spoken of, Eph. v. that hath a great mystery in it, which the apostle propoundeth as the sample and archetype of all marriages or rather as the substance, of which all conjunctions and relations among the creatures are but the shadows. It is that marriage between Christ and his church, for which, it would appear, this world was builded, to be
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

"The Truth. " Some Generals Proposed.
That what we are to speak to for the clearing and improving this noble piece of truth, that Christ is the Truth, may be the more clearly understood and edifying, we shall first take notice of some generals, and then show particularly how or in what respects Christ is called the Truth; and finally speak to some cases wherein we are to make use of Christ as the Truth. As to the first. There are four general things here to be noticed. 1. This supposeth what our case by nature is, and what we are all
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life

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