Ephesians 5:11
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Have no fellowship - Have no religious connection whatever with heathens or their worship. Unfruitful works of darkness - Probably alluding to the mysteries among the heathens, and the different lustrations and rites through which the initiated went in the caves and dark recesses where these mysteries were celebrated; all which he denominates works of darkness, because they were destitute of true wisdom; and unfruitful works, because they were of no use to mankind; the initiated being obliged, on pain of death, to keep secret what they had seen, heard, and done: hence they were called απορῥητα μυστηρια, unspeakable mysteries - things that were not to be divulged. That the apostle may refer to magic and incantations is also probable, for to these the Ephesians were greatly addicted. See the proofs in the notes on Act 19:19. Rather reprove them - Bear a testimony against them; convince them that they are wrong; confute them in their vain reasons; reprove them for their vices, which are flagrant, while pretending to superior illumination. All these meanings has the Greek word ελεγχω, which we generally render to convince or reprove.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
unfruitful works of darkness--Sins are terminated in themselves, and therefore are called "works," not "fruits" (Gal 5:19, Gal 5:22). Their only fruit is that which is not in a true sense fruit (Deu 32:32), namely, "death" (Rom 6:21; Gal 6:8). Plants cannot bear "fruit" in the absence of light. Sin is "darkness," and its parent is the prince of darkness (Eph 6:12). Graces, on the other hand, as flourishing in "the light," are reproductive, and abound in fruits; which, as harmoniously combining in one whole, are termed (in the singular) "the FRUIT of the Spirit" (Eph 5:9). rather, &c.--Translate as Greek, "rather even reprove them" (compare Mat 5:14-16). Not only "have no fellowship, but even reprove them," namely, in words, and in your deeds, which, shining with "the light," virtually reprove all that is contrary to light (Eph 5:13; Joh 3:19-21). "Have no fellowship," does not imply that we can avoid all intercourse (Co1 5:10), but "avoid such fellowship as will defile yourselves"; just as light, though it touch filth, is not soiled by it; nay, as light detects it, so, "even reprove sin."
John Gill Bible Commentary
But all things that are reproved,.... As all sins should be, by the ministers of the Gospel, and by other saints, and will be by God; either by his Spirit convincing of them, or by his judgments, and the letting out of his wrath and fury, either here or hereafter, for the punishment of them: are made manifest by the light: either by the saints, who are made light in the Lord, and detect and reprove the sins of others; or by the word of the Lord, which discovers the heinousness of sins; or by Christ the light of the world, who as Judge will bring to light the hidden things of darkness; or by the omniscience of God, to whom darkness and light are both alike for whatsoever doth make manifest, is light; this is true in things natural and spiritual, whether of the sun in the firmament, or of Christ the sun of righteousness; or of the divine word, or of good men.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:11 expose them: By the light shining from their lives (cp. John 3:20-21; Rom 13:12; 1 Pet 2:9), not by verbally accusing or condemning people (see 1 Cor 5:9-13).
Ephesians 5:11
Children of Light
10Test and prove what pleases the Lord.11Have no fellowship with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.12For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
"Where Are the Praying People?"
By David Wilkerson22K01:432CH 7:14PSA 51:10PRO 4:23MAT 5:81CO 10:132CO 6:17EPH 5:111TI 4:12JAS 4:81PE 5:8This sermon emphasizes the speaker's strong desire to remain separate from the sinful influences of the world, committing to prayer, Bible reading, and standing against immorality. The urgency to address the moral decline within churches and society, calling for a return to genuine faith and purity, especially in the face of prevalent sins like pornography. The plea for God to raise up voices of righteousness and intercessors to combat the spiritual apathy and compromise that is leading a generation astray.
Beware of Good Liars
By Francis Chan9.3K27:55MAT 7:152CO 11:13GAL 1:6EPH 5:111TI 4:12PE 2:11JN 4:1JUD 1:4This sermon challenges believers to examine their beliefs and mindset, urging them to align their thinking with biblical truths rather than cultural norms. It emphasizes the importance of sacrificial love and compassion, drawing attention to the persecution faced by Christians in India and the need for believers to prioritize caring for the marginalized and oppressed. The speaker warns about false teachers who subtly introduce destructive heresies within the church, urging listeners to discern truth from deception and to live according to biblical principles.
God Is Trying to Get at That Thing in You
By David Wilkerson5.6K1:01:32JudgmentDEU 11:18DAN 9:10MAT 6:332CO 6:14EPH 5:11JAS 4:41JN 2:15In this sermon, the preacher, inspired by the Spirit of God, reveals the reason for the ruin of the city. He explains that sin was the cause, specifically the mixing of the holy seed with the world and its system. The preacher then shares his personal journey of searching his heart and realizing that God is going after something in him. He emphasizes the importance of repentance and turning away from sin, particularly the sin of being tied to the world. The preacher believes that God is giving America a little time and space to repent, but expresses concern over the nation's failure to address issues like abortion.
Sharing the Grief of God
By David Wilkerson5.1K54:39PSA 97:10AMO 6:1MAT 6:33ROM 12:91CO 5:9EPH 5:11JAS 4:4In this sermon, the preacher begins by thanking God for his blessings and acknowledging Jesus and the Holy Ghost. He asks for forgiveness for forgetting what God has done and prays for open eyes and understanding. The preacher expresses a desire to remain humble and broken before God's word and asks for cleansing and surrender of sins and unbelief. He emphasizes the need to know God's heart and to live for Him, expressing a desire to weep with God and do things His way. The preacher concludes by discussing the importance of grieving over sin and compromise in the church, highlighting the need for genuine sorrow and repentance.
Voices From Hell Speaking to America - Part 1
By Alan Cairns3.4K09:08PSA 33:12PRO 14:34PRO 29:2MIC 6:8MAT 22:21ROM 6:232CO 10:5EPH 5:111TI 2:11PE 5:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of discerning between different sins and understanding that while all sin is damnable, not all sin is equal. It encourages believers to engage in the political process with a discerning eye, recognizing the threats to Christian morality and the right of Christianity to exist in society. The message underscores the need for God's people to stand against anti-Christian ideologies and to make informed decisions based on God's truth.
Judges and Jesters
By Scott Hynds1.9K32:06Revival1SA 16:4JER 20:9MAT 7:15JHN 10:1EPH 5:11In this sermon, the preacher highlights various concerning practices and beliefs within the church. He mentions instances of people claiming to have encounters with angels and supernatural experiences, such as having their intestines replaced with gold. He also discusses a man caught planting fake jewels in a church to increase people's faith. The preacher emphasizes the need for judgment and discernment within the church, as well as the importance of being attentive and focused on God's word. He criticizes churches that have become complacent, lacking spiritual discernment and indulging in luxury. The preacher calls for a stripping away of hindrances and distractions, such as materialism and celebrity culture, and emphasizes the importance of true beauty and authenticity. He also criticizes false prophets who are stubbornly fixed in their own opinions and agendas. The preacher urges the church to be vigilant and watchful, exposing false teachings and staying true to the Word of God.
I Want to Be Among Those (Compilation)
By Compilations1.7K03:37CompilationMAT 6:331CO 10:212CO 6:17EPH 5:111TI 6:102TI 4:3JAS 4:4In this sermon, the speaker urges listeners to run away from certain types of churches and teachings that do not align with the true message of the Gospel. He emphasizes the importance of avoiding churches that focus solely on success, prosperity, and self-improvement, as well as those that prioritize the glorification of men over Christ. The speaker also warns against churches that lack the Bible, the cross, soul-searching, repentance, and the mention of the blood of Jesus. He encourages listeners to flee from churches where worship is cold and where they can comfortably remain in their sins. Additionally, the speaker advises running away from preachers who use manipulative tactics to gain money and those who promote division between races and cultures.
Mind the Light
By Erlo Stegen1.4K1:00:15Light Of GodEXO 33:20ISA 6:1MAT 4:16ROM 13:11EPH 5:11EPH 5:141JN 1:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of examining one's own life and the impact they have on others. He urges listeners to consider whether they are living according to the Bible and if they are shining the light of God's holiness in the world. The preacher acknowledges the darkness and immorality present in the world but encourages believers to be lighthouses and spread the gospel. He shares a personal experience of a powerful repentance moment and highlights the urgency of repentance and turning away from sin. The sermon also touches on the issue of people not listening and falling asleep in church, leading to spiritual death. The preacher warns against the influence of false teachings, such as the denial of hell, and emphasizes the richness of Africa, not in material wealth but in spiritual potential.
The Resurrection & the Believer
By Charles E. Fuller1.3K50:00Resurrection1CO 9:27EPH 5:112PE 3:9In this sermon transcript, the preacher begins by expressing gratitude for the support that allows them to spread the good news through radio broadcasts. The congregation is encouraged to sing a hymn for those going through difficult times. The preacher then acknowledges the joy of being able to understand and connect with the message without translation. The sermon includes references to hymns and the importance of faithfulness and salvation through Jesus Christ. The preacher also mentions receiving letters from listeners and asks for prayers for those in hospitals and on the battlefields.
The Desperate Need for Holiness
By Shane Idleman1.2K08:40ROM 12:12CO 6:17EPH 5:11EPH 6:11PHP 2:51TH 5:22HEB 12:14JAS 4:41PE 1:15This sermon emphasizes the critical need for holiness in our lives, highlighting the prevalence of sin in our culture and the importance of separating ourselves from worldly influences. It addresses the impact of sin on the church, marriages, and our relationship with God, stressing the urgency to put on the whole armor of God and renew our minds in Christ. The speaker challenges lukewarm Christians to seek true holiness and warns against the deception of worldly pleasures that quench the Spirit of God.
Preaching Up a Storm by Ian Paisley
By Compilations1.2K04:30ACT 1:8ROM 12:1GAL 1:8EPH 5:112TI 4:2This sermon emphasizes the need for Christians to be fully committed and passionate in their faith, putting every part of themselves on the altar for God without reservations. It calls for churches that are alive with the power of God, where sinners are convicted and transformed by the Holy Spirit. The message also addresses the darkness present in religious institutions and the importance of standing against false teachings and apostasy, focusing on preaching the true Word of God with boldness and authority.
Obtaining Pardon From God
By Erlo Stegen1.1K1:09:25PardonGEN 3:9PSA 90:8PSA 91:1PRO 28:13ISA 30:1ISA 30:9EPH 5:11In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a woman who had a dream of seeing people in hell, which led to her brother's conversion and becoming a pastor. The brother's church saw a large number of children attending Sunday school. The speaker emphasizes the importance of surrendering one's life to the Lord and not hiding from Him. They also highlight the idea that sin is like a chain, with one sin leading to another. The sermon references the story of Adam and Eve hiding from God and the words of Jesus in John 3:20 about those who do evil hating the light.
Why I Don't Have a Television
By Mose Stoltzfus9781:28:42ISA 1:16MAT 6:33ROM 12:91CO 10:14EPH 5:112TI 2:19JAS 1:27In this sermon, the speaker addresses the negative impact of television on society, particularly on children. The speaker expresses concern about the frequency of violence portrayed on television and how it desensitizes people to real-life violence. They emphasize the importance of redeeming time and making good use of it, contrasting the amount of time spent on television versus in church. The speaker also highlights the harmful effects of television on children, stating that it offends and leads them astray. They reference several scriptures, including Proverbs 4, Ephesians 5:14-16, and Mark 9:42, to support their arguments.
If My People Turn From Sin - Part 5
By Shane Idleman77634:282CH 7:14PSA 51:10PSA 107:20PRO 28:13ROM 5:1ROM 6:23EPH 5:11HEB 12:6JAS 5:161JN 1:9This sermon emphasizes the importance of repentance, confronting sin, and turning back to God. It discusses the need to address sin and repentance, even though it may not be a popular topic in today's culture. The message highlights the power of confession, repentance, and the healing that comes from seeking God's forgiveness and mercy.
The Cry for Prophetic Power
By Ian Paisley63738:401KI 17:1MAT 6:332CO 6:17EPH 5:111TH 5:19JAS 4:71PE 2:9In this sermon, delivered by Dr. Ian Paisley at a Bible conference service in 1967, he focuses on the characteristics of the prophet Elijah. He emphasizes the importance of not being indifferent to the word of God and the need to stand against opposition. Dr. Paisley shares a personal anecdote about being in prison and the welcome home meeting he attended afterwards. He encourages the audience to be equipped with God's power and wisdom in order to be effective ministers in their generation.
Why the 10 Commandments Offend
By Shane Idleman59023:11EXO 20:72CH 7:14PSA 51:10PRO 28:13MAT 5:17JHN 14:21ROM 7:7EPH 5:112TI 4:2JAS 4:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of the Ten Commandments, particularly focusing on the third commandment 'hallowed be thy name.' It discusses how the Commandments reveal our need for God, the misconception that keeping them saves us, and the role of the Commandments in pointing us to Christ. The sermon also addresses the moral divide in society, the offense of the Commandments, and the need for revival through worship, prayer, and seeking God amidst a culture moving away from Him.
The History, Mystery and Tragedy of Samson - Part 4
By Ian Paisley53125:42JDG 14:1MAT 4:1JHN 2:13JHN 19:381CO 1:181CO 15:542CO 6:14EPH 5:11This sermon delves into the life of Samson, focusing on the lessons learned from his associations and the consequences of his choices. It emphasizes the importance of avoiding dangerous associations that lead to temptation and ruin, highlighting the need for believers to maintain separation from worldly influences. The sermon also explores how Samson's life prefigures aspects of the life of Jesus Christ, drawing parallels between their circumstances and actions, ultimately pointing to Christ's victory over death and the redemption He offers.
Question Re Foolish Jesting and Gravity of Deacons
By G.W. North23836:43DeaconMAT 6:33EPH 5:1EPH 5:8EPH 5:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the tragic nature of life and the constant presence of crisis. He highlights the prevalence of tragedy in history and in everyday news, suggesting that it is a fundamental aspect of human existence. The preacher argues that God came into the world through the tragedy of Jesus' crucifixion to address the universal experience of tragedy in people's lives. He urges believers to embrace the reality of tragedy and find joy in the profound love of God, rather than seeking superficial happiness.
Politics: Expose the Unfruitful Works of Darkness
By Shane Idleman1757:24Christian Engagement in PoliticsExposing DarknessEPH 5:11Shane Idleman emphasizes the need for Christians to engage in politics, arguing that it is a biblical responsibility to expose the unfruitful works of darkness in society. He reflects on his own journey of awakening to the importance of political involvement, driven by a passion for righteousness and a desire to protect future generations. Idleman challenges the apathy of believers, urging them to take action through voting and civic engagement, as silence equates to complicity in the face of evil. He asserts that government is God-ordained and that Christians must not shy away from influencing it for good. Ultimately, he calls for a revival of boldness among believers to stand against cultural decay and uphold biblical values.
He Who Eats the Grapes of Sodom
By C.H. Spurgeon0Separation from SinHolinessNUM 6:4PRO 4:14MAT 5:8ROM 12:22CO 6:17GAL 5:16EPH 5:111TH 5:22JAS 4:71PE 1:15C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strict separation from sin, using the example of Nazirites who abstained from all grape products to illustrate the need for believers to avoid even the appearance of evil. He warns that yielding to worldly temptations, even in small ways, can lead to greater spiritual peril, comparing it to a small crack in a dam that can lead to disaster. Spurgeon encourages Christians to flee from tempting situations and to embrace a lifestyle of careful walking, which, though it may require self-denial, brings its own rewards and joy. The sermon serves as a reminder that true happiness and safety lie in a life dedicated to holiness and separation from sin.
Names Which the Holy Spirit Has Given Them
By Thomas Brooks0Spiritual DiscernmentWickednessPSA 1:1PRO 13:20MAT 7:15ROM 12:21CO 15:332CO 6:14GAL 5:9EPH 5:11JAS 4:41JN 2:15Thomas Brooks emphasizes the importance of perceiving wicked individuals through the lens of the names given to them in Scripture, such as lions, bears, and vipers, which reflect their true nature. By understanding these descriptions, believers can be warned against the dangers of associating with such individuals, recognizing that their company should be a burden rather than a delight. The sermon encourages Christians to maintain a distance from wickedness and to seek the sweetness of divine love instead.
Holy Hatred
By Thomas Brooks0SinHolinessPSA 119:104PRO 8:13MAT 5:29ROM 12:9GAL 5:17EPH 5:11HEB 12:1JAS 4:41PE 1:151JN 2:15Thomas Brooks emphasizes that true holiness is accompanied by a 'holy hatred' towards all forms of sin, as every sin is an affront to God's holiness and glory. A holy individual perceives sin as a direct attack on the nature of God and the sacrifice of Christ, leading to a passionate desire for its eradication. Brooks warns that even one favored sin can lead to spiritual ruin, comparing it to various biblical examples of downfall due to a single transgression. He contrasts the motivations of a holy heart, which detests sin for its defilement, with an unholy heart, which may only resent sin for its consequences. Ultimately, Brooks calls for a complete rejection of sin, urging believers to recognize its destructive nature and the necessity of a holy hatred towards it.
A Daniel-Ministry and a Lucifer-Ministry
By Zac Poonen0FaithfulnessLeadership in RighteousnessDAN 1:8MAT 5:16ROM 12:2EPH 5:112TI 2:19HEB 10:241PE 2:9REV 12:4Zac Poonen emphasizes the need for a 'Daniel-ministry' in today's world, highlighting how Daniel's unwavering commitment to God inspired others like Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah to stand firm in their faith. He contrasts this with the 'Lucifer-ministry,' which leads to rebellion and division within the church, allowing God to expose and purify the Body of Christ. Poonen calls for individuals to take a stand for righteousness, encouraging believers to lead by example rather than merely preaching. He stresses that true leadership in faith involves guiding others towards righteousness through both words and actions. Ultimately, the sermon challenges listeners to choose which ministry they will embody in their lives.
Undefiled in the Midst of Wickedness
By David Wilkerson0Commitment to GodSpiritual IntegrityPSA 119:9DAN 1:8MAT 5:14ROM 12:22CO 6:17EPH 5:11PHP 2:15JAS 4:41PE 2:91JN 2:15David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of maintaining spiritual integrity in a corrupt society, using Daniel's commitment to abstain from the king's food as a powerful example. Daniel and his friends chose to remain undefiled amidst the wickedness of Babylon, understanding that compromising their standards would lead to a loss of freedom. They made a pact to uphold their faith and values without imposing their beliefs on others, focusing instead on their personal relationship with God. Wilkerson challenges listeners to consider their own commitment to God's purposes, especially in times of crisis, and to be voices of purity in a morally declining world.
Restoration of Truth and Revival (December, 1887)
By C.H. Spurgeon0RevivalSpiritual Awakening2CH 7:14PSA 85:6ISA 57:15ACT 3:19ROM 12:2EPH 5:111TH 5:172TI 4:2JAS 5:161PE 1:16C.H. Spurgeon passionately calls for a genuine revival of true religion, emphasizing the need for a real awakening by the Holy Spirit rather than mere excitement. He warns that without divine intervention, churches risk descending into error and ungodliness, and he laments the spiritual death prevalent in many congregations. Spurgeon stresses the importance of purging worldliness and frivolity from worship, asserting that true doctrine and holiness must be upheld for the Spirit to work effectively. He encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with God through prayer and repentance, believing that a collective cry for revival can lead to a powerful transformation. Ultimately, he urges the faithful to pray fervently and preach the Word clearly, trusting in God's ability to restore truth and bring about revival.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Have no fellowship - Have no religious connection whatever with heathens or their worship. Unfruitful works of darkness - Probably alluding to the mysteries among the heathens, and the different lustrations and rites through which the initiated went in the caves and dark recesses where these mysteries were celebrated; all which he denominates works of darkness, because they were destitute of true wisdom; and unfruitful works, because they were of no use to mankind; the initiated being obliged, on pain of death, to keep secret what they had seen, heard, and done: hence they were called απορῥητα μυστηρια, unspeakable mysteries - things that were not to be divulged. That the apostle may refer to magic and incantations is also probable, for to these the Ephesians were greatly addicted. See the proofs in the notes on Act 19:19. Rather reprove them - Bear a testimony against them; convince them that they are wrong; confute them in their vain reasons; reprove them for their vices, which are flagrant, while pretending to superior illumination. All these meanings has the Greek word ελεγχω, which we generally render to convince or reprove.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
unfruitful works of darkness--Sins are terminated in themselves, and therefore are called "works," not "fruits" (Gal 5:19, Gal 5:22). Their only fruit is that which is not in a true sense fruit (Deu 32:32), namely, "death" (Rom 6:21; Gal 6:8). Plants cannot bear "fruit" in the absence of light. Sin is "darkness," and its parent is the prince of darkness (Eph 6:12). Graces, on the other hand, as flourishing in "the light," are reproductive, and abound in fruits; which, as harmoniously combining in one whole, are termed (in the singular) "the FRUIT of the Spirit" (Eph 5:9). rather, &c.--Translate as Greek, "rather even reprove them" (compare Mat 5:14-16). Not only "have no fellowship, but even reprove them," namely, in words, and in your deeds, which, shining with "the light," virtually reprove all that is contrary to light (Eph 5:13; Joh 3:19-21). "Have no fellowship," does not imply that we can avoid all intercourse (Co1 5:10), but "avoid such fellowship as will defile yourselves"; just as light, though it touch filth, is not soiled by it; nay, as light detects it, so, "even reprove sin."
John Gill Bible Commentary
But all things that are reproved,.... As all sins should be, by the ministers of the Gospel, and by other saints, and will be by God; either by his Spirit convincing of them, or by his judgments, and the letting out of his wrath and fury, either here or hereafter, for the punishment of them: are made manifest by the light: either by the saints, who are made light in the Lord, and detect and reprove the sins of others; or by the word of the Lord, which discovers the heinousness of sins; or by Christ the light of the world, who as Judge will bring to light the hidden things of darkness; or by the omniscience of God, to whom darkness and light are both alike for whatsoever doth make manifest, is light; this is true in things natural and spiritual, whether of the sun in the firmament, or of Christ the sun of righteousness; or of the divine word, or of good men.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:11 expose them: By the light shining from their lives (cp. John 3:20-21; Rom 13:12; 1 Pet 2:9), not by verbally accusing or condemning people (see 1 Cor 5:9-13).