Ephesians 5:17

KJV

Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord [is].

KJV (with Strong's)

Wherefore {G1223}{G5124} be ye {G1096} not {G3361} unwise {G878}, but {G235} understanding {G4920} what {G5101} the will {G2307} of the Lord {G2962} is.

Complete Jewish Bible

So don’t be foolish, but try to understand what the will of the Lord is.

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.

American Standard Version

Wherefore be ye not foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ephesians 5:17 serves as a pivotal exhortation for believers to live with intentionality and spiritual discernment, urging them to move beyond thoughtless existence and actively pursue comprehension of God's divine purpose. This verse underscores the critical importance of spiritual wisdom in navigating daily life, contrasting the folly of ignorance with the profound benefit of understanding the Lord's will, thereby aligning one's conduct with God's revealed desires and eternal plan.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within Paul's broader ethical instructions in [Ephesians 4-5](/ephesians/4-5 "Ephesians 4-5 - Living a New Life in Christ"), which call believers to "walk worthy of the calling with which you were called" ([Ephesians 4:1](/ephesians/4-1 "Ephesians 4:1 - Walk Worthy")). Specifically, it immediately follows the profound admonition in [Ephesians 5:15-16](/ephesians/5-15-16 "Ephesians 5:15-16 - Walk Circumspectly"), "See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil." Verse 17 directly explains *how* one walks wisely and redeems the time: by understanding the Lord's will. It then sets the stage for the subsequent command in [Ephesians 5:18](/ephesians/5-18 "Ephesians 5:18 - Be Filled with the Spirit") to "be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit," implying that Spirit-filling is the means by which believers are empowered to discern and live out God's will. Thus, [Ephesians 5:17](/ephesians/5-17 "Ephesians 5:17 - Understanding the Will of the Lord") acts as a critical bridge between the general call to wise living and the specific means of spiritual empowerment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Greco-Roman world of Ephesus was a melting pot of philosophical ideas, mystery religions, and pervasive immorality. Paul's audience would have been familiar with various schools of thought, some of which emphasized human reason or fate, but none offered a definitive, divinely revealed "will." In this environment, Christians were called to live distinctly, not conforming to the prevailing "unwise" (ἄφρονες) patterns of thought and behavior that characterized pagan society, often marked by drunkenness, idolatry, and sexual promiscuity. The concept of discerning a divine will would have been alien to many, who instead relied on omens, oracles, or personal desires. Paul's instruction thus provided a radical counter-cultural directive, urging believers to seek guidance not from human wisdom or worldly impulses, but from the sovereign God, a pursuit that would set them apart as truly wise in a world steeped in spiritual darkness.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Ephesians and Pauline theology. It reinforces the theme of **Spiritual Wisdom vs. Worldly Folly**, a recurring motif where Paul contrasts the enlightened understanding available to believers with the ignorance of the unredeemed world. This wisdom is not merely intellectual but involves a spiritual discernment that impacts practical living, as seen in the call to "walk circumspectly" in [Ephesians 5:15](/ephesians/5-15 "Ephesians 5:15 - Walk Circumspectly"). Furthermore, it highlights the theme of **Discerning God's Will**, a central concern for believers seeking to live a life pleasing to God. This "will of the Lord" encompasses both God's moral commands (His prescriptive will for righteous living) and His sovereign purposes (His overarching plan for humanity and creation). Finally, the verse undergirds the theme of **Intentional Christian Living**, emphasizing that the Christian life is not passive but requires active engagement, spiritual vigilance, and a deliberate pursuit of God's purposes, rather than a drift into thoughtlessness or worldly conformity. This intentionality is foundational for the believer's walk in holiness and love, as outlined throughout [Ephesians](/ephesians/1 "The Book of Ephesians").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **unwise (Greek, _áphrōn'_):** From G878, derived from 'A' (negative particle) and 'phrēn' (mind). It literally means "mindless" or "without sound judgment." It denotes someone who is stupid, ignorant, or rash, lacking proper use of their intellect, often leading to practical folly or moral error. In this context, it describes a person who lives without spiritual discernment, failing to consider God's perspective or purposes.
* **understanding (Greek, _syníēmi'_):** From G4920, meaning "to put together" or "to comprehend." It implies an active mental process of bringing concepts together to grasp meaning, perceive clearly, or discern truth. It's more than mere knowledge; it's the ability to apply spiritual insight to life's situations, leading to wise action.
* **will (Greek, _thélēma'_):** From G2307, referring to a "determination," "choice," "purpose," or "decree." It encompasses both God's active volition (what He desires or wills to happen) and His passive inclination (what is pleasing to Him). In this verse, it refers to God's revealed purpose and moral expectations for His people, which believers are called to actively discern and obey.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Wherefore be ye not unwise":** This phrase, introduced by "Wherefore" (G1223, G5124), connects directly to the preceding exhortation to "walk circumspectly" ([Ephesians 5:15](/ephesians/5-15 "Ephesians 5:15 - Walk Circumspectly")). The negative imperative "be ye not unwise" (G3361, G878) serves as a prohibition against living thoughtlessly, foolishly, or without spiritual discernment. It condemns a life characterized by spiritual ignorance or a lack of moral judgment, urging believers to avoid the mental and spiritual laziness that leads to unwise choices in a world that is "evil" ([Ephesians 5:16](/ephesians/5-16 "Ephesians 5:16 - Redeeming the Time")).
* **"but understanding what the will of the Lord [is]":** This clause introduces a strong contrast ("but," G235) and presents the positive command that defines wise living. The participle "understanding" (G4920) implies an active, ongoing process of comprehending and discerning. The object of this understanding is "what the will (G2307) of the Lord (G2962) is." This refers to God's revealed purpose, His moral expectations, and His overall design for the lives of His people. It is a call to actively seek and grasp God's desires, not merely in a general sense, but in the practical outworking of daily life, ensuring that one's actions align with divine intention.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in [Ephesians 5:17](/ephesians/5-17 "Ephesians 5:17 - Understanding the Will of the Lord") to convey his imperative. Foremost is **Antithesis** or **Contrast**, where he directly opposes "unwise" (ἄφρονες) with "understanding what the will of the Lord is." This stark dichotomy highlights the two paths available to believers: one of thoughtless folly, the other of discerning wisdom. The **Imperative Mood** is implicit in the command "be ye not unwise" and the implied "be understanding," conveying a direct, authoritative instruction for believers' conduct. The use of "Wherefore" (διό) functions as a **Logical Connector**, indicating that this verse is a conclusion or consequence drawn from the preceding verses, particularly the call to walk wisely and redeem the time. The overall tone is **Didactic** and **Exhortative**, characteristic of Paul's pastoral teaching, aiming to instruct and encourage spiritual growth and responsible living within the Christian community.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ephesians 5:17 profoundly connects the believer's daily conduct with the overarching purposes of God, asserting that true wisdom is found not in human philosophy or worldly pursuits, but in discerning and aligning with the divine will. This pursuit of God's will is not merely an intellectual exercise but a spiritual discipline that shapes character, guides decisions, and impacts all areas of life. It underscores the biblical truth that God has a specific plan for His people, and walking in wisdom means actively seeking to understand and participate in that plan. This verse also implicitly highlights the role of the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to comprehend spiritual truths and discern God's will, transforming them from thoughtless individuals into those who live with divine purpose and intentionality. The call to understand God's will is a call to spiritual maturity, reflecting a deep desire to honor God in every aspect of existence.

* [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Transformed by the Renewing of Your Mind")
* [Colossians 1:9-10](/colossians/1-9-10 "Colossians 1:9-10 - Filled with the Knowledge of His Will")
* [1 Thessalonians 4:3](/1_thessalonians/4-3 "1 Thessalonians 4:3 - God's Will for Sanctification")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ephesians 5:17 challenges every believer to a life of profound intentionality, urging us to move beyond passive existence and actively engage with God's revealed purposes. It calls us to cultivate a mind and spirit that are attuned to divine wisdom, rather than succumbing to the thoughtless patterns of the world. Understanding "the will of the Lord" is not about finding a secret formula for every decision, but about immersing ourselves in God's Word, seeking His Spirit's guidance, and living in accordance with His moral character and redemptive plan. This means consciously choosing to prioritize what God values, using our time wisely, and making decisions that reflect His kingdom principles. It's a continuous journey of discernment, prayer, and obedience, leading to a life that truly honors Him and impacts the world for His glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I tend to act "unwise" or without intentional spiritual discernment?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to more actively seek and understand "the will of the Lord" in my daily decisions?**
* **How does my current use of time reflect or contradict the principle of "understanding what the will of the Lord is"?**
* **What role does prayer and Scripture study play in my personal pursuit of God's will, and how can I deepen these practices?**

### FAQ

**What does "the will of the Lord" mean in this context?**

Answer: In Ephesians 5:17, "the will of the Lord" (G2307, G2962) primarily refers to God's revealed will, encompassing His moral commands and His overarching purposes for humanity and individual believers. It's not about deciphering a hidden, specific plan for every minute detail of life (like which job to take or whom to marry), but rather understanding and living according to the clear principles and character of God revealed in Scripture. This includes His desire for believers to be holy ([1 Thessalonians 4:3](/1_thessalonians/4-3 "1 Thessalonians 4:3 - God's Will for Sanctification")), to love one another ([John 13:34](/john/13-34 "John 13:34 - A New Commandment")), to be filled with the Spirit ([Ephesians 5:18](/ephesians/5-18 "Ephesians 5:18 - Be Filled with the Spirit")), and to make disciples ([Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")). It's about living a life that is pleasing to God and aligns with His kingdom values, as opposed to living thoughtlessly or according to worldly wisdom.

**How can a believer practically "understand what the will of the Lord is" today?**

Answer: Practically understanding the will of the Lord involves several key spiritual disciplines. First and foremost is **diligent engagement with God's Word**, as the Bible is God's primary revelation of His character, commands, and purposes ([Psalm 119:105](/psalm/119-105 "Psalm 119:105 - Your Word is a Lamp")). Second, **consistent prayer** is crucial, as believers are encouraged to ask God for wisdom, which He gives generously ([James 1:5](/james/1-5 "James 1:5 - Asking for Wisdom")). Third, **being filled with the Holy Spirit** ([Ephesians 5:18](/ephesians/5-18 "Ephesians 5:18 - Be Filled with the Spirit")) empowers spiritual discernment and enables believers to walk in a way that pleases God. Fourth, **seeking godly counsel** from mature believers can provide valuable perspective and confirmation ([Proverbs 11:14](/proverbs/11-14 "Proverbs 11:14 - Wisdom in Counsel")). Finally, **obedience to what is already known** of God's will often clarifies the next steps, as Jesus taught that those who do God's will will know His teaching ([John 7:17](/john/7-17 "John 7:17 - Knowing the Doctrine")). It is a holistic process of spiritual growth and active pursuit.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ephesians 5:17, with its imperative to understand "the will of the Lord," finds its ultimate fulfillment and clearest expression in Jesus Christ. He is the perfect embodiment and revelation of God's will, declaring, "For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me" ([John 6:38](/john/6-38 "John 6:38 - Jesus Does the Father's Will")). Christ's entire life, from His incarnation to His crucifixion and resurrection, was a seamless demonstration of perfect obedience to the Father's will, culminating in His atoning sacrifice that fulfilled God's redemptive purpose ([Hebrews 10:7-10](/hebrews/10-7-10 "Hebrews 10:7-10 - Christ's Obedience Fulfills God's Will")). As believers, we are called to be "conformed to the image of His Son" ([Romans 8:29](/romans/8-29 "Romans 8:29 - Conformed to Christ's Image")), meaning our understanding and pursuit of God's will are intrinsically linked to following Christ's example and being transformed by His Spirit. The Holy Spirit, whom Christ sent, empowers us to discern and live out God's will, guiding us "into all truth" ([John 16:13](/john/16-13 "John 16:13 - The Spirit Guides into Truth")) and making the mind of Christ accessible to us ([1 Corinthians 2:16](/1_corinthians/2-16 "1 Corinthians 2:16 - We Have the Mind of Christ")). Thus, to understand the will of the Lord is to increasingly know Christ, follow His pattern of obedience, and allow His Spirit to lead us into a life that perfectly reflects the Father's desires, just as He did.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Romans 12:2

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

1 Thessalonians 5:18

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Ephesians 5:15

See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,

Colossians 1:9

¶ For this cause we also, since the day we heard [it], do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;

Jeremiah 4:22

For my people [is] foolish, they have not known me; they [are] sottish children, and they have none understanding: they [are] wise to do evil, but to do good they have no knowledge.

1 Thessalonians 4:1

¶ Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort [you] by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, [so] ye would abound more and more.

1 Thessalonians 4:3

For this is the will of God, [even] your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: