Ephesians 5:8
“For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light…”
This command to “walk as children of light” points back to identity. Paul notes that there was a time when darkness characterized the Christians – as unbelievers – but now Christians are light. How we live and conduct our lives should be consistent with the identity claimed in Christ. Walking in the light is an indicator of what happens to those who have been cleansed by the blood of Jesus (cf. 1 John 1:7). The thought continues in verse 11 that believers are not to partake in the acts of darkness that are unfruitful.
The way in which our lives are expressed and conducted show forth either a new identity or a false (old) one. There can be no middle ground. Sinless perfection is not what is called for but a renunciation of the darkness and a continued and growing desire to be in the light as He is in the light. Christians are the light of the world and must desire that the world would see the light as it is in Jesus. The way Christians live will show forth that light to the world and expose their deeds as unfruitful (cf. 5:11, 13).
Theology Implication: Looking at the conduct of one’s life should be such that is consistent with the identity that is espoused. If one says they are a child of Christ, then the pattern and desire and pursuit should be toward a life that is marked by the light. One excellent indicator is the mouth and the body. The way one speaks to and about others shows and reveals what the condition of the heart is. Along that same line, the way that one uses their body is a great indicator of light and dark in the heart of the person.
Article By: Caleb Nedimyer
Cross Hope 