Ephesians 5:15
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Walk circumspectly - Our word circumspect, from the Latin circirmspicio, signifies to look round about on all hands; to be every way watchful, wary, and cautious, in order to avoid danger, discern enemies before they come too nigh, and secure a man's interest by every possible and lawful means. But the original word ακριβως signifies correctly, accurately, consistently, or perfectly. Be ye, who have received the truth, careful of your conduct; walk by the rule which God has given you; do this as well in little as in great matters; exemplify your principles, which are holy and good, by a corresponding conduct; do not only profess, but live the Gospel. As you embrace all its promises, be careful also to embrace all its precepts; and behave yourselves so, that your enemies may never be able to say that ye are holy in your doctrines and profession, but irregular in your lives. Not as fools, but as wise - Μη ὡς ασοφοι, αλλ' ὡς σοφοι. The heathens affected to be called σοφοι, or wise men. Pythagoras was perhaps the first who corrected this vanity, by assuming the title of φιλοσοφος, a lover of wisdom; hence our term philosopher, used now in a much prouder sense than that in which the great Pythagoras wished it to be applied. The apostle here takes the term σοφος, and applies it to the Christian; and, instead of it, gives the empty Gentile philosopher the title of ασοφος, without wisdom, fool.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
that--rather as Greek, "See how ye walk," &c. The double idea is compressed into one sentence: "See (take heed) how ye walk," and "See that ye walk circumspectly." The manner, as well as the act itself, is included. See how ye are walking, with a view to your being circumspect (literally, accurate, exact) in your walk. Compare Col 4:5, "Walk in wisdom (answering to 'as wise' here) toward them that are without" (answering to "circumspectly," that is, correctly, in relation to the unbelievers around, not giving occasion of stumbling to any, but edifying all by a consistent walk). not as fools--Greek, "not as unwise, but as wise."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherefore be ye not unwise,.... No one would be thought to be unwise, but such are, who do not redeem time, and are ignorant of the will of the Lord; believers should not act the unwise part, neither in their talk, nor in their walk and conversation, nor in their use of time: but understanding what the will of the Lord is; or "of God", as read the Alexandrian copy, the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Ethiopic versions: there is the secret will of God, which is the rule of all his proceedings; and is unknown to men, till facts make it appear; this is always fulfilled, and sometimes by persons who have no regard to his revealed will; to this the wills of the people of God should be always resigned: and there is his revealed will, which lies partly in the Gospel; which declares it to be his will, that Christ should work out the salvation of his people, which is what he came to do; that whoever believes in him shall be saved; that all that are redeemed shall be sanctified; and that they shall persevere to the end, and be glorified; and partly in the law, in the precepts and commands of it, which contain the good, perfect, and acceptable will of God: and the understanding of it is not a mere speculative knowledge of it, but a practical one; when a man not only knows, but does the will of God, and his heart and actions agree with it; and this is to be done in faith, in virtue of grace and strength received, with a view to the glory of God, having no dependence on what is done; and to the right understanding of it, so as to act according to it, as should be, the word of God, and the illuminations, instructions, and grace of the Spirit, are necessary: the Alexandrian copy, Syriac, Arabic, and Ethiopic versions, read the words as an exhortation, "understand ye the will of God".
Ephesians 5:15
Children of Light
14So it is said: “Wake up, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”15Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk, not as unwise but as wise,16redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Life Changing Prayer
By Charles Stanley20K15:40PrayerEPH 5:8EPH 5:15COL 1:9COL 1:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of ceaseless prayer and provides a six-fold request for believers to pray for one another. He encourages fathers and mothers to pray for their children and husbands and wives to pray for each other, believing that God will bring about transformation in their lives. The speaker also highlights the significance of living a life that is worthy of the Lord, reflecting the character and influence of Jesus Christ. He urges believers to consider the direction and quality of their lives, striving to make a lasting impact on others.
(Dangers in the Way Series): Dangers of Bondage and Liberty
By A.W. Tozer7.7K36:54BondageROM 8:3GAL 5:1EPH 5:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding and embracing the freedom that comes from being in Christ Jesus. He warns against using this freedom as an excuse to indulge in sinful behavior or to neglect the responsibility of living a good and righteous life. The preacher encourages believers to walk circumspectly, being wise and vigilant in their actions. He also addresses the dangers of superstition and legalistic forms of worship, urging listeners to break free from these bondage and have a proper understanding of the greatness and sovereignty of God.
(Hebrews - Part 44): The Root of Bitterness
By A.W. Tozer5.0K23:22ExpositionalMAT 6:33GAL 5:16EPH 5:15HEB 12:141PE 5:81JN 1:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for believers to be vigilant and watchful in their spiritual lives. He compares the challenges and dangers faced by believers to various threats in the natural world, such as blight, insects, birds, drought, and frost. The preacher highlights the importance of not failing to respond to God's grace and warns against allowing roots of jealousy, evil temper, pride, deceit, and spite to take hold in one's heart. He likens the church to an army in the field, constantly facing danger and requiring constant vigilance to stay alive. The preacher urges believers to follow peace with all men in holiness and to be on guard against any root of bitterness that may trouble them and defile others.
The True Way of Keeping Christmas (Reading)
By George Whitefield4.7K22:26Audio BooksROM 3:20EPH 5:15The sermon transcript emphasizes the importance of not wasting time on worldly entertainments, especially during this season. It urges individuals to spend their time wisely, engaging in conversations that are profitable and centered around the wonders of redeeming love. The transcript encourages believers to share with one another the great things the Lord has done for their souls and to focus their conversations on Jesus. It also highlights the need to use time for reading, praying, and religious conversation, rather than indulging in activities that do not glorify God. The sermon concludes with a plea for individuals to consider the significance of their time and to prioritize the glory of God and the welfare of their souls.
(Clip) How to Resurrect Dead Faith
By Shane Idleman2.9K03:23EPH 5:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of being watchful like a watchman on the wall, walking circumspectly, and being perceptive to the things of God. It calls for self-examination, acknowledging areas of weakness such as modesty, purity, gossip, and anger, and urges listeners to strengthen what remains, to awaken, and to fight against spiritual complacency.
A Disciplined Life
By Zac Poonen2.1K31:07EPH 5:152TI 1:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of self-evaluation as the new year approaches, focusing on discipline in three key areas: time management, financial stewardship, and bodily discipline. It highlights the need to make the most of our time, be faithful in handling money, and practice self-control over our bodies to grow spiritually and fulfill God's purposes.
Holy Spirit Revival
By David Legge1.9K47:37EPH 5:15This sermon focuses on the theme of Holy Spirit Revival, urging believers to awaken from spiritual slumber and seek the fullness of the Holy Spirit. The speaker emphasizes the need for repentance, confession of sins, and surrender to God's will to experience personal revival. Addressing common hindrances like unbelief, idolatry, immorality, and disunity, the sermon calls for a deep desire for God and obedience to be continually filled with the Holy Spirit.
(The Spiritual Man) Spiritual Mindedness
By Denny Kenaston1.8K1:02:58Spiritual MindednessPSA 119:11DAN 1:8MAT 6:33ROM 10:17EPH 5:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of walking with God and living a spiritual lifestyle. He shares a personal experience of missionary work in Africa, highlighting the dedication and spiritual discipline required. The preacher encourages the audience, particularly young people, not to disregard their previous spiritual experiences but to embrace a major lifestyle change. He emphasizes the need to align one's life with the standards set in God's Word and to be prepared for judgment based on it.
Personal Holiness - Part 2
By William MacDonald1.5K43:25HolinessLUK 16:9EPH 5:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being found doing the right things when the Lord returns. The imminent return of Jesus is seen as a powerful motive for living a holy life. The speaker encourages believers to feed their new nature and not indulge in the desires of their old, corrupt nature. The sermon also addresses the need to make wise decisions regarding the use of money and to consider if certain actions are fitting behavior for a child of God. The speaker references 1 John 2:28 and highlights the importance of having confidence and not being ashamed before the Lord at his coming.
Redeem the Time
By Erlo Stegen1.1K25:14Redeeming The TimeEPH 5:15In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of living wisely and making the most of our time in a world filled with evil. He highlights the issue of legalized prostitution and the concern it raises for parents, particularly in protecting their children. The preacher then speaks about the deceased brother, praising his character and faithfulness. He emphasizes that the brother never complained or murmured, even in difficult times, and stood firm in his faith until his dying day. The sermon concludes with a reminder that we should always strive to speak the truth and avoid lies.
Walking in Ephesians
By Anton Bosch1.0K44:18WalkingROM 12:1EPH 2:1EPH 2:4EPH 4:1EPH 4:17EPH 5:15EPH 6:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of making progress and moving forward in our good works. The book of Ephesians is divided into two sections, with the first three chapters focusing on our relationship with God and the next three chapters focusing on our relationship with others and the world. The preacher urges believers to walk worthy of their calling, reflecting the character of Christ and being ambassadors for Him. He also highlights the need to differentiate ourselves from the world and not walk in the same futile ways as unbelievers.
(Ephesians) Be Filled With the Spirit
By Brian Brodersen1.0K58:59EPH 5:15In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of living a different lifestyle as believers compared to unbelievers. He emphasizes the need to understand and follow the will of the Lord, rather than being influenced by worldly desires. The preacher also highlights the negative consequences of drunkenness and the disapproval of God towards those who are habitually drunk. He encourages believers to spend time with the Lord and be filled with the Holy Spirit, which will be evident in their countenance and actions. Additionally, the preacher mentions the importance of speaking to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, and making melody in our hearts to the Lord.
World Mission at Pip N Jay 25.6.77
By George Verwer83256:01World MissionsPRO 29:18MAT 6:33ROM 15:202CO 10:16EPH 5:15In this sermon, Martin Lloyd-Jones discusses the importance of aiming high in our Christian lives and not settling for small ambitions. He emphasizes the need to preach the gospel in regions beyond, highlighting the urgency of reaching tribes and people groups who have not yet heard the message of Jesus Christ. Lloyd-Jones challenges the audience to consider the contrast between the dedication and determination of mountain climbers in conquering physical challenges, and the lack of effort in reaching the world for Christ. He encourages the audience to read books such as "Spiritual Depression" by Michael Griffith and "Give Up Your Small Ambitions" to gain a deeper understanding of living a life of discipline and purpose in serving God.
The Urgency of the Hour
By Erlo Stegen80400:00EPH 5:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being faithful to the calling of spreading the gospel. He warns that the day of the Lord is coming and everyone will be tested on their faithfulness. The preacher highlights the evil times we are living in and urges believers to redeem the time and shine their light in the world. He shares a personal story of a minister who had a dream about the second coming of the Lord and was unable to account for the congregations and young people under his care. The sermon serves as a reminder to be diligent in our mission to spread the gospel and be prepared for the return of the Lord.
Live Wisely
By Erlo Stegen6551:02:21PSA 46:1PRO 3:5EPH 5:15This sermon reflects on the passage from Ephesians 5:15, emphasizing the importance of living wisely in the face of evil days and uncertainty. It urges listeners to be vigilant in their conduct, make the most of every opportunity, and seek to understand and follow the Lord's will. The speaker draws parallels between the challenges faced by early Christians in Ephesus and the struggles of modern-day believers, encouraging perseverance and faithfulness amidst adversity.
Press Into Christ While We Can
By Robert B. Thompson6361:15:53MAT 6:33JHN 14:15EPH 5:15PHP 2:12REV 1:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency of being prepared for the future and not being consumed by the distractions of the American way of life. He warns that those who do not make the most of their opportunities and talents will face an angry Christ. The preacher discusses the significance of technology and the United Nations, highlighting the scheming and lack of transparency in the world. He urges listeners to pray and seek God's guidance in navigating these challenging times and to prioritize their relationship with God over worldly pursuits.
When Jesus Comes Unannounced
By Hans R. Waldvogel61843:23Spiritual PreparednessRedemption of TimeJesusEPH 5:15Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the urgency of being spiritually prepared for the unannounced return of Jesus, urging believers to redeem their time and live in constant fellowship with Him. He warns against the distractions of the world and the importance of keeping one's spiritual garments unspotted. Waldvogel reassures that Jesus is deeply interested in our lives and offers restoration for wasted time if we surrender to Him. He encourages the congregation to praise God continually and to recognize the significance of their relationship with Christ in navigating life's challenges. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to live in obedience to God's Word as we await Christ's return.
The State of the Church and Our Lives
By Richard Langworthy49449:51ChurchACT 19:131CO 4:12CO 5:142CO 5:20EPH 5:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not wasting time on worldly distractions such as TV and cell phones. He encourages the audience to redeem their time and prioritize spiritual matters. The preacher quotes Spurgeon, who compares the beating of the heart to a muffled drum leading to the grave, highlighting the finite nature of our time on earth. The sermon concludes with a focus on living for Christ and allowing His love to compel us to live for Him rather than ourselves.
Qualities That Measure Spiritual Maturity - Part 4
By Phil Beach Jr.291:11:17BrokennessSpiritual MaturityISA 57:15JOB 41:25ISA 66:1EPH 5:15HEB 12:2Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of spiritual maturity, focusing on three key aspects: brokenness, redeeming the time, and character qualities. He highlights that true maturity requires a willingness to let go of childish ways and embrace the Father's desire for growth in our lives. The preacher encourages believers to recognize the need for brokenness as a pathway to spiritual strength and to actively redeem their time for God's purposes. He also stresses that maturity is characterized by a willingness to be led by God rather than pursuing personal desires. Ultimately, the message calls for a deep commitment to follow the Lord wherever He leads.
The Power of a Focused Life
By Mike Bickle271:03:11VisionPurpose in LifePRO 29:18EPH 5:15Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of having a focused life, rooted in a clear vision that guides our choices and actions. He references Proverbs 29:18, explaining that without vision, people live aimlessly and waste their potential. Bickle encourages individuals to develop a specific life vision that aligns with God's purpose, which can lead to disciplined living and fulfillment of one's destiny. He shares personal anecdotes about how he and his family cultivated their visions and goals, stressing the importance of measurable objectives and an actionable plan to achieve them. Ultimately, he calls believers to redeem their time wisely to walk in their God-given purpose.
How to Strengthen Your Marriage
By Shane Idleman1848:10MarriageSpiritual LeadershipEPH 5:15Shane Idleman emphasizes the importance of spiritual leadership in marriage, urging men to walk circumspectly and be filled with the Holy Spirit to foster a loving and respectful environment at home. He highlights that men set the spiritual tone of their families and must prioritize purity, passion for God, and mutual submission in their relationships. Idleman encourages husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church, which requires humility, accountability, and a commitment to personal holiness. He also stresses the need for men to surround themselves with uplifting influences and to actively seek God's will in their lives. The sermon concludes with a call to action for men to take steps towards reconciliation and spiritual growth in their marriages.
Our Tragic Waste of Time
By A.W. Tozer1Time ManagementAccountabilityEPH 5:15A.W. Tozer emphasizes the critical importance of time management in his sermon 'Our Tragic Waste of Time,' reminding us that while God grants us gifts freely, we are accountable for how we use them, particularly our limited time. He reflects on the fleeting nature of life, urging listeners to recognize the value of each moment and to avoid wasting time on trivial pursuits. Tozer warns that wasted time is irretrievable and encourages us to make the most of our days, as we will ultimately answer for our stewardship before Christ. He calls for a sense of urgency in our actions, reminding us that we must work while we still have the opportunity.
Our Obligations to God and Men.
By Edward Payson0PSA 24:1PRO 3:27MRK 12:17ROM 13:11CO 6:19GAL 6:10EPH 5:15EPH 6:1Edward Payson preaches on the importance of rendering unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God, the things that are God’s, emphasizing the sacredness of respecting the rights of all beings and giving them what is rightfully theirs. He delves into what is due to God, highlighting that all things are God's property, including our souls, bodies, time, knowledge, possessions, and influence. Payson also explores what is due to men, stressing the obligation to love, do good, show kindness, and fulfill duties towards our fellow human beings, superiors, inferiors, and family members.
Alcohol - Liberty Has Limits
By Shane Idleman0LUK 4:13ROM 14:211CO 6:12GAL 5:13EPH 5:15Shane Idleman emphasizes the importance of true freedom in Christ, which allows for personal liberties but within the framework of social responsibility. He warns against the dangers of alcohol abuse, highlighting how over-indulgence can lead to sin and disqualify individuals from leadership roles. Idleman shares personal experiences and stories of families and churches in crisis due to alcohol abuse, stressing the need for humility, teachability, and self-examination to avoid crossing the line of responsibility. He encourages Christians to practice abstinence, especially in cases of frequent and excessive drinking, to prevent harm to oneself and others, and to uphold the message of the gospel.
Dangers in the Way #3 "Dangers of Idleness and Busyness"
By A.W. Tozer0BusynessIdlenessEPH 5:15A.W. Tozer addresses the dangers of idleness and busyness in the Christian life, emphasizing the importance of being active in God's work while also recognizing the need for rest and reflection. He warns that idleness can lead to temptation and spiritual stagnation, while excessive busyness can hinder our relationship with God and our effectiveness in ministry. Tozer encourages believers to walk wisely, balancing work and rest, and to engage in productive activities that align with God's purpose. He illustrates his points with biblical examples and practical advice, urging Christians to avoid both extremes and find a healthy rhythm in their spiritual lives.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Walk circumspectly - Our word circumspect, from the Latin circirmspicio, signifies to look round about on all hands; to be every way watchful, wary, and cautious, in order to avoid danger, discern enemies before they come too nigh, and secure a man's interest by every possible and lawful means. But the original word ακριβως signifies correctly, accurately, consistently, or perfectly. Be ye, who have received the truth, careful of your conduct; walk by the rule which God has given you; do this as well in little as in great matters; exemplify your principles, which are holy and good, by a corresponding conduct; do not only profess, but live the Gospel. As you embrace all its promises, be careful also to embrace all its precepts; and behave yourselves so, that your enemies may never be able to say that ye are holy in your doctrines and profession, but irregular in your lives. Not as fools, but as wise - Μη ὡς ασοφοι, αλλ' ὡς σοφοι. The heathens affected to be called σοφοι, or wise men. Pythagoras was perhaps the first who corrected this vanity, by assuming the title of φιλοσοφος, a lover of wisdom; hence our term philosopher, used now in a much prouder sense than that in which the great Pythagoras wished it to be applied. The apostle here takes the term σοφος, and applies it to the Christian; and, instead of it, gives the empty Gentile philosopher the title of ασοφος, without wisdom, fool.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
that--rather as Greek, "See how ye walk," &c. The double idea is compressed into one sentence: "See (take heed) how ye walk," and "See that ye walk circumspectly." The manner, as well as the act itself, is included. See how ye are walking, with a view to your being circumspect (literally, accurate, exact) in your walk. Compare Col 4:5, "Walk in wisdom (answering to 'as wise' here) toward them that are without" (answering to "circumspectly," that is, correctly, in relation to the unbelievers around, not giving occasion of stumbling to any, but edifying all by a consistent walk). not as fools--Greek, "not as unwise, but as wise."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherefore be ye not unwise,.... No one would be thought to be unwise, but such are, who do not redeem time, and are ignorant of the will of the Lord; believers should not act the unwise part, neither in their talk, nor in their walk and conversation, nor in their use of time: but understanding what the will of the Lord is; or "of God", as read the Alexandrian copy, the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Ethiopic versions: there is the secret will of God, which is the rule of all his proceedings; and is unknown to men, till facts make it appear; this is always fulfilled, and sometimes by persons who have no regard to his revealed will; to this the wills of the people of God should be always resigned: and there is his revealed will, which lies partly in the Gospel; which declares it to be his will, that Christ should work out the salvation of his people, which is what he came to do; that whoever believes in him shall be saved; that all that are redeemed shall be sanctified; and that they shall persevere to the end, and be glorified; and partly in the law, in the precepts and commands of it, which contain the good, perfect, and acceptable will of God: and the understanding of it is not a mere speculative knowledge of it, but a practical one; when a man not only knows, but does the will of God, and his heart and actions agree with it; and this is to be done in faith, in virtue of grace and strength received, with a view to the glory of God, having no dependence on what is done; and to the right understanding of it, so as to act according to it, as should be, the word of God, and the illuminations, instructions, and grace of the Spirit, are necessary: the Alexandrian copy, Syriac, Arabic, and Ethiopic versions, read the words as an exhortation, "understand ye the will of God".