A note from our pastor,

“For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret.”

Ephesians 5:12

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

In our study verse this week, the Apostle continues his instruction to the community of believers regarding the approach to the sinful behaviors of others. In our examination last week we considered how the word reproved means to convince rather than to condemn. I encourage you to go back and re-read the thoughts on the prior verse before continuing with this week’s study verse.

The Apostle now tells the disciples it is a shame even to speak of the worst sins which are done in secret. According to some teachers of scripture, the meaning of this verse is an implication that some sins are so horrific it is unseemly for the disciple to even speak of them. This thought presupposes disciples are weak in mind or heart and cannot stomach the naming of sins which are being committed around them. While there are certainly some behaviors which are so ghastly as to be difficult to consider, it is unlikely this is the meaning which the Apostle was setting forth in such an important passage of scripture.

Rather, the Apostle continues his instruction against judging and condemnation. Saying in our study verse, even judging and condemning the worst of sins done in secret is against the instructions of God. The disciple might be tempted to argue the necessity of publicly condemning these sins saying they must be brought to light. Arguing for the necessity of such condemnation in order to expose these behaviors to their proper wrath. Examination of this argument will continue in next week’s writing as the Apostle provides the counter point to this argument.

In this verse, the Apostle continues to remind disciples to walk in the light. To live a life which honors God and respects his instruction. A portion of doing so is avoiding the judgement and condemnation of others. Rather, when the community of believers lives in a way which shows forth grace, mercy, and love the pattern of behavior inherently condemns actions which are contrary to God.

Let us, as a community of believers, focus on living not with hate and anger, but rather with love and mercy so we might show the way of Christ.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah