Ephesians 5:8
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For ye were sometimes (ποτε, formerly) darkness - While ye lived in darkness, ye lived in these crimes. But now are ye light in the Lord - When ye were in heathenish darkness ye served divers lusts and pleasures, but now ye have the light - the wisdom and teaching which come from God; therefore walk as children of the light - let the world see that ye are not slaves to the flesh, but free, willing, rational servants of the Most High; not brutish followers of devil gods.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
sometimes--"once." The emphasis is on "were." Ye ought to have no fellowship with sin, which is darkness, for your state as darkness is now PAST. Stronger than "in darkness" (Rom 2:19). light--not merely "enlightened"; but light enlightening others (Eph 5:13). in--in union with the Lord, who is THE LIGHT. children of light--not merely "of the light"; just as "children of disobedience" is used on the opposite side; those whose distinguishing characteristic is light. PLINY, a heathen writing to Trajan, bears unwilling testimony to the extraordinary purity of Christians' lives, contrasted with the people around them.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For the fruit of the Spirit,.... Either of the spirit of man, as renewed, or rather of the Spirit of God; the allusion is to fruits of trees: the believer is a tree of righteousness; Christ is his root; the Spirit is the sap, which supports and nourishes; and good works, under the influence of his grace, are the fruit: the Alexandrian copy, and some others, and the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Ethiopic versions, read "the fruit of light"; which agrees with the preceding words: and the genuine fruit of internal grace, or light, is in all goodness, and righteousness, and truth; the fruit of "goodness", lies in sympathizing with persons in distress; in assisting such according to the abilities men have in a readiness to forgive offences and injuries; and in using meekness and candour in admonishing others: "righteousness" lies in living in obedience to the law of God; in attending the worship and service of him; and in discharging our duty to our fellow creatures; and this as goodness, is very imperfect, and not to be boasted of, or trusted to, nor is salvation to be expected from it: "truth" is opposed to lying, to hypocrisy, to error and falsehood; and where the Spirit of God, and the work of grace are, there will be more or less an appearance of these fruits.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:8 Darkness is ignorance of God and his ways and being dominated by sin (see 4:18). • Light from the Lord is Christ’s good news (see John 8:12). As people of light, believers live in fellowship with God, in whom there is no darkness (see 1 Jn 1:5-7; 5:9; cp. Matt 5:14-16; John 8:12; 12:35-36, 46; Rom 13:12; 2 Cor 6:14; 1 Thes 5:4-8; 1 Pet 2:9).
Ephesians 5:8
Children of Light
7Therefore do not be partakers with them.8For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light,9for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth.
- 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.
Be Ye Holy for I Am Holy
By Keith Daniel7.6K1:13:04Practical HolinessROM 12:22CO 6:17EPH 5:81TH 5:23HEB 12:141PE 1:141PE 4:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being transformed and renewed in our minds to align with God's will. He quotes from 1 Peter 1:14, urging believers to be obedient children and not conform to their former lusts. The preacher emphasizes that holiness is a personal choice and not influenced by external factors such as peer pressure or societal corruption. He shares a personal story about a man who was burdened by the moral decay in society and eventually preached at a convention, moving the young people to tears. The sermon highlights the need for believers to maintain their holiness and not compromise their faith.
1 John - Grace of Fellowship
By Stephen Kaung4.7K59:04FellowshipMAT 6:33EPH 5:81JN 1:51JN 1:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of young people knowing and understanding the word of God. He explains that as believers grow in their faith, they will inevitably face conflicts, but they can overcome them because of the strength they receive from the word of God. The preacher also highlights how Satan uses the world to tempt and deceive believers, specifically through the lust of the eye, the lust of the flesh, and the pride of life. He then reads from 1 John 1:5-10, emphasizing the need for believers to walk in the light and confess their sins to receive forgiveness and cleansing through the blood of Jesus Christ. The preacher concludes by reminding listeners that spiritual growth is a gradual process and cannot be achieved instantly.
Family Series Part 2 (Honor, the Gateway to Blessings)
By Paul Washer3.9K51:32FamilyPRO 22:6MAT 27:46GAL 3:13EPH 5:8EPH 6:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of fathers spending quality time with their children, particularly on weekends. He argues that all truth is revealed truth, meaning that even young children can understand and be transformed by the Gospel if the Spirit of God reveals it to them. The preacher shares a personal anecdote about a nine-year-old boy who approached him after a sermon, expressing his deep conviction of sin and desire for salvation. The sermon concludes with a call for parents to prioritize teaching their children about the Gospel and to lead culture out of darkness.
Confronting the Homosexual Agenda
By Michael L. Brown3.7K1:10:02HomosexualityMAT 5:10MAT 5:14MAT 5:16MAT 5:20EPH 5:8In this sermon, the speaker discusses the spiritual state of young people in America, as revealed by a survey conducted by George Barna. The survey found that many young people have a moral standard of "whatever" and lack strong convictions. The speaker emphasizes the need for the church to engage in holy conflict with the world and live as children of light. They also address the opposition faced by those who speak against the homosexual agenda, being labeled as hate-filled bigots. The sermon concludes with an invitation to attend a conference focused on taking back cities for God.
(Exodus) Exodus 25:31-40
By J. Vernon McGee3.2K06:16ExpositionalEXO 25:31MAT 4:4JHN 1:9JHN 16:14EPH 5:8COL 2:81TI 4:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of worshiping God and walking in the light. He compares the lampstand in the tabernacle to Christ, describing it as a perfect picture of his deity. The preacher explains that true worship involves feeding on Christ, rather than being entertained or discussing social issues. He also highlights the need to avoid being deceived by worldly philosophies and vain deceit. The sermon references verses from the Bible, such as John 1:9 and Colossians 2:8, to support these teachings.
Do I Believe (Compilation)
By Compilations3.0K11:04Compilation1CO 6:19EPH 5:8EPH 5:14HEB 3:17HEB 11:61JN 1:91JN 2:1JUD 1:24In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of walking in the light and not focusing on one's weaknesses and abilities. He refers to the story of the 10 spies who gave an evil report about the land of milk and honey, highlighting their lack of faith and belief in their own abilities. The preacher shares examples of witnessing God's power to transform and raise the dead, emphasizing the need for faith in order to please God. He warns against the dangers of unbelief and encourages listeners to fully commit their lives to trusting in God rather than seeking miracles.
Loving the Appearing of Christ
By Carter Conlon2.8K55:02Second Coming Of ChristJER 6:16EPH 5:5EPH 5:82TI 4:1In this sermon, the preacher highlights the lack of conviction and moral compass in society, even among those who claim to know God. He references Jeremiah 6:16, where God calls for people to return to the old paths and find rest for their souls, but they refuse. The preacher emphasizes that there is a rebellion against truth and a preference for religion and worldly pleasures over the presence of Christ. He concludes by urging the church to call out to the Lord and love His appearing. The sermon also references 2 Timothy 4, where Paul charges Timothy to be diligent in preaching the word, as there will come a time when people will reject sound doctrine and turn to false teachings.
Nature and Purpose of the Church Now and in the After Ages
By T. Austin-Sparks2.4K1:17:22Eternal PurposeGEN 1:3MAT 6:33JHN 1:4ACT 26:182CO 4:6EPH 5:81PE 2:9In this sermon, T. Austin Sparks discusses the great transition from one humanity to another in the divine economy. He emphasizes the importance of having a heavenly vision, as Apostle Paul did, which reveals the place and destiny of man, the nature and dynamic of ministry, the nature and purpose of the Church, and the significance of Christ's crucifixion, resurrection, and exaltation. Sparks emphasizes that true ministry is centered on Christ and that people should encounter Christ when they meet a minister. He also highlights the importance of personally seeing Jesus in order to truly understand the Church.
The Great Cost of Unbelief - Part 10
By W.F. Kumuyi2.1K07:04JER 32:17LUK 18:272CO 5:17EPH 5:8PHP 2:51TH 5:23HEB 12:141PE 1:15This sermon emphasizes the power of God to transform lives, bring people back from sin, and prepare them for righteousness. It encourages believers to trust in God's ability to save, sanctify, and purify, leading to a life of holiness and dedication to the Lord. The message highlights the importance of faith, belief in God's promises, and the transformation that comes from surrendering to His will.
(Through the Bible) Ephesians 5-6
By Chuck Smith2.1K1:15:26EPH 4:32EPH 5:3EPH 5:8EPH 5:20EPH 5:25EPH 5:33In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of forgiveness and walking in love as believers. He emphasizes that before instructing believers on how to live, the Bible first lays the foundation of God's love, grace, and blessings. The preacher highlights that God's forgiveness is our example, and we are called to be followers of God in forgiving others. He also mentions that holding bitterness and animosity in our hearts can harm our mental health, emphasizing the importance of having a forgiving spirit.
One Sin Will Destroy You
By Bob Jennings1.7K08:35PSA 119:105PRO 4:18JHN 3:19EPH 5:81JN 1:7Walking in the light is emphasized as the path to finding joy, a clear conscience, and a close relationship with God. The sermon highlights the importance of addressing any darkness in our hearts, as it hinders our spiritual growth and effectiveness in God's kingdom. It warns against the deception and destructive nature of hidden sins, urging believers to step into the light for repentance and restoration.
Collection of a.w. Tozer's Prayers - Volume 2
By A.W. Tozer1.7K11:00PrayerGEN 3:6PSA 119:105MAT 6:331CO 11:24EPH 5:81PE 1:161PE 2:9The sermon transcript emphasizes the importance of a genuine and impulsive faith in God, rather than relying on formulas or carefully laid out sermons. The speaker urges the audience to turn away from the world's temptations and self-centeredness, and instead turn towards Jesus Christ. The prayer is for God to awaken people's souls and turn their eyes away from worldly vanities, so they may focus on holy things and be saved from their own foolishness and laziness. The sermon concludes with a prayer for God's help in preparing the hearts of the audience to receive communion in a worthy manner.
(Happenings Ahead) the Demands of the Last Days
By Willie Mullan1.5K1:13:52Last DaysMAT 5:16MRK 16:15ROM 13:11EPH 5:8PHP 2:151TH 5:2TIT 2:11In this sermon, the preacher discusses the dangers of unbelief in the last days. He emphasizes the urgency of accepting Jesus' invitation to come to him for salvation, as the opportunity may be lost in the future. The preacher also highlights the need for Christians to actively spread the gospel and not be complacent in their faith. He references 2 Timothy 3, which describes the characteristics of people in the last days, and warns against having a form of godliness without true faith. The sermon concludes with a call to action for the congregation to wake up and live according to the teachings of Jesus.
The Canadian Revival - Part 6
By Bill McLeod1.5K09:25PSA 85:61CO 6:19GAL 5:25EPH 5:82TI 1:61JN 4:7This sermon emphasizes the transformative power of revival, sharing stories of individuals who sold possessions, repented, and dedicated their lives to missions after experiencing revival. It highlights the impact of revival on churches, communities, and individuals, showcasing how God works through ordinary people like a truck driver and farmers. The sermon also discusses the importance of humility, selflessness, and walking in the light, spirit, and love as key aspects of revival.
Acceptable Sacrifice - Part 2
By Hoseah Wu1.3K1:30:50SacrificeEPH 1:4EPH 5:8EPH 5:101PE 2:5In this sermon, the speaker shares a vivid dream that a brother had about believers standing before the judgment seat of Christ. The brother noticed that some believers carried heavy burdens of achievements, while others carried smaller packages, and some seemed to carry nothing at all. The speaker emphasizes that what was once acceptable in ministry may not be acceptable now, and that God is always looking for Christ's increase in us. The sermon encourages believers to live a life that is acceptable to God by offering up spiritual sacrifices through Jesus Christ and walking as children of light.
Forsake Natural Understanding and Follow God’s Way
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.3K16:55God's WayPSA 107:2EPH 5:8PHP 3:131PE 2:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of persistent prayer and not giving up. He shares a story of a woman who had a transformative experience with God during an altar service. After seeking God earnestly, she experienced a profound change in her life and even testified about it. The preacher also talks about the power of praising God and how it can bring victory and healing. He encourages others to seek salvation and to praise the Lord with all their hearts.
Jesus Is the Light of the World - Part 1
By Joshua Daniel1.2K09:42EXO 20:15PRO 11:1PRO 22:6MAL 4:2JHN 8:12JHN 8:23EPH 5:8This sermon by Joshua Daniel emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus as the light of the world and the need for transparency and integrity in our lives. He challenges listeners to live in the light of Christ, exposing and repenting of hidden sins and dishonest practices. The message highlights the significance of moral revival beyond just economic prosperity, stressing the foundational role of God's Word in restoring integrity and righteousness in society.
A Light in the Darkness
By Ian Paisley1.1K55:25PSA 27:1PSA 112:4ISA 42:16JHN 1:5JHN 8:122CO 4:6EPH 5:81JN 1:5This sermon emphasizes the theme of light in the darkness, highlighting the struggles faced by the upright, the dangers of apostasy, and the need for God's intervention and guidance. It traces historical events where God's light shone in times of darkness, leading to victories and the preservation of truth. The speaker reflects on the formation of the Free Presbyterian Church amidst opposition, celebrating God's faithfulness and the ongoing battle against apostasy.
Perfect Faith, 1980
By Norman Grubb1.1K1:00:51FaithJOS 1:11MAT 6:33JHN 8:12JHN 14:61CO 6:192CO 6:14EPH 5:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of total commitment to God. He shares his personal experience of committing himself to God three years ago and witnessing the power of God in his life. The speaker also mentions the movement called the Interfaces of Fellowship, which was started as a result of God breaking through in his life. He highlights the concept of being a son of God and how God can reexpress himself through believers. The speaker concludes by expressing the joy and fulfillment that comes from seeing Christ living his life in people and the importance of prayer in experiencing this reality.
Reflect the Light of the Son
By Arno Stegen1.0K1:01:53Son Of GodMAT 5:16MAT 12:36EPH 5:3EPH 5:8EPH 5:201JN 1:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of walking in the light and avoiding the works of darkness. He shares a story of a man who was converted and became a preacher of the gospel. The preacher also discusses the prevalence of silly talk and coarse jesting in society and how it goes against the teachings of the Bible. He highlights the need to be connected to God, who is always close by and a source of light. Additionally, the preacher mentions the decline of church attendance in some countries and the need to bring the gospel to far away nations.
Discernment in the Church
By Vance Havner1.0K25:18ISA 29:13JHN 3:3ROM 8:81CO 1:181CO 2:14EPH 5:8COL 3:11TH 5:21HEB 5:14JAS 1:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of spiritual discernment in a time of confusion and uncertainty within the Church. It contrasts the clear, unwavering beliefs of past leaders like Spurgeon with the current trend of ambiguity and compromise. The speaker highlights the need for believers to have discernment to distinguish truth from falsehood, to understand the times, and to recognize the spirits at work. The sermon also addresses the shallowness of worship, the danger of idol worship, and the necessity of being spiritually reborn to truly grasp divine truth.
Capital City Church - Part 3
By David Ravenhill1.0K41:38Christian LifeMAT 5:16JHN 13:8ACT 1:8ROM 13:13EPH 5:8JAS 1:22REV 22:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being aware of the time we are living in and being spiritually awake. He highlights the choice we have to either continue in sin or avail ourselves of the grace and power of Jesus Christ to transform our lives. The speaker also discusses the need to dress up spiritually, to be prepared and ready for the coming of the bridegroom. He uses the example of Peter falling asleep when he should have been praying, and how this led to Peter denying Jesus. The overall message is to be conscious of the time, clean up our lives, and be spiritually awake and prepared for the return of Christ.
Win Your Loved Ones
By John R. Rice95558:38Lost SoulsISA 60:1MAT 5:14LUK 19:10JHN 8:12ROM 13:12EPH 5:81JN 1:5In this sermon, the preacher encourages the congregation to fill up the empty seats in the church. He emphasizes the importance of singing with passion and intensity, with the chords standing out on their necks and their eyes bugging out. The preacher also emphasizes the need to share the message of Christ's love and salvation with others. He reminds the congregation that Jesus is the light of the world and that they have the responsibility to be a light for the lost to see. The sermon concludes with a call to worship and praise God, acknowledging His glory and the eternal life that believers have in Him.
When a Pastor Lives a Double Life
By Eric Ludy8821:32:51PSA 51:10PRO 28:13MAT 6:24JHN 3:20ROM 12:21CO 10:31EPH 5:8JAS 4:81PE 2:91JN 1:7This sermon emphasizes the need for the body of Christ to yield to the Spirit of God, be stirred, convicted, and driven to the foot of the cross for purification. It calls for alignment with God's kingdom pattern, avoiding compromise with truth, and a plea for sin to be exposed and God's light to shine brightly. The message also delves into the dangers of living a double life, seeking validation from the world, and the importance of being serious about following Jesus Christ.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For ye were sometimes (ποτε, formerly) darkness - While ye lived in darkness, ye lived in these crimes. But now are ye light in the Lord - When ye were in heathenish darkness ye served divers lusts and pleasures, but now ye have the light - the wisdom and teaching which come from God; therefore walk as children of the light - let the world see that ye are not slaves to the flesh, but free, willing, rational servants of the Most High; not brutish followers of devil gods.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
sometimes--"once." The emphasis is on "were." Ye ought to have no fellowship with sin, which is darkness, for your state as darkness is now PAST. Stronger than "in darkness" (Rom 2:19). light--not merely "enlightened"; but light enlightening others (Eph 5:13). in--in union with the Lord, who is THE LIGHT. children of light--not merely "of the light"; just as "children of disobedience" is used on the opposite side; those whose distinguishing characteristic is light. PLINY, a heathen writing to Trajan, bears unwilling testimony to the extraordinary purity of Christians' lives, contrasted with the people around them.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For the fruit of the Spirit,.... Either of the spirit of man, as renewed, or rather of the Spirit of God; the allusion is to fruits of trees: the believer is a tree of righteousness; Christ is his root; the Spirit is the sap, which supports and nourishes; and good works, under the influence of his grace, are the fruit: the Alexandrian copy, and some others, and the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Ethiopic versions, read "the fruit of light"; which agrees with the preceding words: and the genuine fruit of internal grace, or light, is in all goodness, and righteousness, and truth; the fruit of "goodness", lies in sympathizing with persons in distress; in assisting such according to the abilities men have in a readiness to forgive offences and injuries; and in using meekness and candour in admonishing others: "righteousness" lies in living in obedience to the law of God; in attending the worship and service of him; and in discharging our duty to our fellow creatures; and this as goodness, is very imperfect, and not to be boasted of, or trusted to, nor is salvation to be expected from it: "truth" is opposed to lying, to hypocrisy, to error and falsehood; and where the Spirit of God, and the work of grace are, there will be more or less an appearance of these fruits.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:8 Darkness is ignorance of God and his ways and being dominated by sin (see 4:18). • Light from the Lord is Christ’s good news (see John 8:12). As people of light, believers live in fellowship with God, in whom there is no darkness (see 1 Jn 1:5-7; 5:9; cp. Matt 5:14-16; John 8:12; 12:35-36, 46; Rom 13:12; 2 Cor 6:14; 1 Thes 5:4-8; 1 Pet 2:9).