Ephesians 6 reminds me of reciprocals. My math friends recognize the meaning in multiplying fractions, but the rest of us understand that it means a transaction in which both parties’ benefit. Today’s lesson is about remaining whole. The apostle Paul completes his outline of biblical relationships from the prior chapter: “Children, obey your parents in the Lord”. This could be translated “when they show reverence for Messiah”. This is an important caveat. Not all homes are wholesome and even little children can spot error. He continues: “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise.” Children from an intact family have a much greater chance of success. Paul includes the corresponding responsibility for the fathers: “do not exasperate your children.” That means “provoke to wrath”. Dads can model and motivate their kids to high standards, but irrational expectations divide relationships. Paul adds: “bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” The reason we study all of scripture is because together, it produces balance. Keep in mind that mom and dad have likewise agreed to cooperate under God’s authority. We serve a God of order.
Paul is writing from a Roman prison cell and fully understands the corrupt heart of mankind. Yet, he writes: “obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ.” Paul is not endorsing slavery. In the First Century, there were many types of servitude, ranging from voluntary to involuntary. He The term includes bondservants and could even include those working under a bad manager. Today, we usually apply this to our jobs or to our volunteering efforts. He adds: “Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people.” Paul says the purpose is “to win their favor” by revealing Christ through your actions. As always, Paul provides the flip side of the responsibility: “masters, treat your slaves in the same way”, knowing we all have the same Master in heaven. We show grace and kindness to others because Christ first loved us.
Paul closes the letter with a subtle reminder of our relationship with political rulers. He studied the soldiers guarding him. Every component of their attire was designed to intimidate and control, but Paul saw something bigger. He encourages all believers: “Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” We are made complete in Christ. Paul is mindful that we also have weapons. He knows: “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but… against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” To prepare for this enemy, we must: “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” We can be fooled into defending against a false enemy. Paul notes that everything is held together by “the belt of truth”. There is an order of operation that does not care about feelings. People and party might change, but right and wrong do not. Paul includes the “the breastplate of righteousness” which covers the heart. Nothing takes us out of the battle more thoroughly than losing the moral high ground. Compromising words or actions will make us vulnerable. Paul reminds us that our feet must be firmly anchored by “the gospel of peace”. Peace with God does not argue, it reconciles. The large Roman shields were designed to lock together, making one wall of defense. Paul says: “take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.” Together, our faith is multiplied. Finally, we must protect our head with: “the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.” Where the head goes, the body will follow. Paul asks us to “be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” My friend, are you missing something? You can be made whole. Jesus died so you may live. Will you exchange death for life?