Ephesians 5:1

¶ Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;

Be {G1096} ye {G3402} therefore {G3767} followers {G3402} of God {G2316}, as {G5613} dear {G27} children {G5043};

So imitate God, as his dear children;

Be imitators of God, therefore, as beloved children,

Be ye therefore imitators of God, as beloved children;

Commentary

Ephesians 5:1 serves as a foundational exhortation, calling believers to actively embody the character of God in their daily lives. This verse transitions from the theological truths and ethical commands of the previous chapter into practical application, emphasizing the profound relationship between God and His people.

Context

The apostle Paul's letter to the Ephesians is rich with both doctrinal teaching and practical instruction for Christian living. Chapter 4 concludes with a strong emphasis on putting off the old self and putting on the new, which is "created in righteousness and true holiness" (Ephesians 4:24). The word "therefore" in verse 1 indicates a direct consequence of the spiritual transformation and renewal discussed previously. Having been redeemed and reconciled to God, believers are now expected to live in a manner consistent with their new identity and calling.

Key Themes

  • Divine Imitation: The core command is to "be followers of God." This isn't merely passive admiration but an active, conscious effort to emulate God's attributes, particularly His love, mercy, and holiness. It suggests that our actions should reflect the nature of the One we worship.
  • Beloved Children: The phrase "as dear children" highlights the intimate, affectionate relationship believers have with God. Just as children naturally imitate parents they love and admire, so too should Christians imitate their heavenly Father, motivated by love and gratitude for His adoption of them into His family (Galatians 4:6).
  • Transformation and Holiness: This verse underscores the ongoing process of sanctification. Having been made new in Christ, believers are called to live out that newness, progressively conforming their lives to God's character.

Linguistic Insights

  • The Greek word for "followers" is mimētai (μιμηταί), from which we get the English word "mimic." It implies an active imitation or emulation. Believers are not just to be admirers of God, but active imitators of His character.
  • "Dear children" translates from the Greek tekna agapēta (τέκνα ἀγαπητά). Tekna emphasizes the natural relationship of children to their parents, while agapēta highlights the deep, cherished love God has for them. This affectionate term provides the motivation for imitation: we follow God because we are His beloved children.

Practical Application

This verse challenges believers to examine how their lives reflect the nature of God. To "be followers of God" means actively striving to exemplify His attributes in our daily interactions. This includes:

  • Walking in Love: As the subsequent verse (Ephesians 5:2) immediately clarifies, the primary way we imitate God is by walking in love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself for us.
  • Forgiveness and Compassion: Just as God has forgiven us, we are called to forgive others (Ephesians 4:32).
  • Holiness and Purity: Living as God's children means shunning the darkness of the world and living in light and righteousness, reflecting His moral character.
  • Trust and Obedience: Recognizing ourselves as "dear children" fosters a spirit of trust and obedience, knowing that our Father's commands are for our good.

In essence, Ephesians 5:1 is a powerful reminder that Christian living is not merely about avoiding sin, but about actively pursuing and reflecting the divine nature, motivated by the profound love and acceptance we receive as God's beloved children.

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Cross-References

  • 1 John 4:11

    Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.

  • 1 Peter 1:15

    But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;

  • 1 Peter 1:16

    Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

  • Ephesians 4:32

    And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.

  • Matthew 5:48

    Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

  • Luke 6:35

    But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and [to] the evil.

  • Luke 6:36

    Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.
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