A note from our pastor:

“But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light.”

Ephesians 5:13

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

Our study verse this week continues the Apostle’s instruction regarding reproving sin. In order to fully understand the thoughts expressed in this week’s writing, it is important to go back and read the last two writings which examine Ephesians 5:11 and Ephesians 5:12. In summary though, the word reprove as used here by the Apostle means not to condemn or judge, but rather to convince. Thus, when the Apostle says to reprove the sins he means to convince the individual of the nature of their behavior through the actions of the disciple not through the judgement of words.

In the prior verse, the Apostle mentions sins which are committed in secrecy or darkness. Sins which individuals do not want their neighbors to know they are engaged in. The Apostle in this verse continues to address those hidden behaviors.

A different way of reading the first phrase of this verse is — but all things, when reproved, are illuminated by the light. In other words, the Apostle is telling disciples when you live a life filled with grace and mercy for those around you, you are reproving even the sins which are done in secret. There is not a need to call those out and speak in judgement regarding them but instead a need to love one another. The life of love which a disciple leads will convince the individual their actions are sinful and will show them the better way is to follow after Christ.

The second half of this verse is truly beautiful and a necessary reminder for the community of believers. To fully appreciate this verse, there are two insights which must be apprehended. First, when a disciple of Christ is living their life in such a way as to show grace, mercy, and love they become a light. Just as the moon reflects the rays of the sun and becomes a light in the night time sky, disciples of Christ reflect his light and become a light in darkness. The second aspect of understanding this verse is the potential impact a disciple can have on others.

When the disciple illuminates the world and the blessings of Christ through their actions they often make another person to be a light as well. Judging and condemning the person committing the sins precludes the opportunity in many situations to illuminate another person. But showing them the grace, mercy, and love of Christ and leading them to a life which desires those same things provides them the opportunity to reflect the light of Christ in their lives and illuminate the world for others as well.

Let us carefully choose to fill our lives with individuals which illuminate the world by reflecting the love, grace, and mercy of Jesus Christ.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah