Prior Book | Prior Chapter | Prior Verse | Next Verse | Next Chapter | Next Book | Viewing NASB and Amplified 2015 | |
NASB | Ephesians 5:8 for you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Ephesians 5:8 For once you were darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light [live as those who are native-born to the Light] |
Bible Question: what is the significance of the light and darkness metaphor use by paul. |
Bible Answer: Greetings Shael, Here is a bit of commentary on Ephesians 5:8.. "5:8 darkness...light. "Darkness" describes the character of the life of the unconverted as void of truth and virtue in intellectual and moral matters (cf. 1 John 1:5-7). The realm of darkness is presided over by the "power of darkness," (Luke 22:53; Col. 1:13) who rules those headed for "eternal darkness" (Matt. 8:12; 2 Peter 2:17). Tragically, sinners love the darkness (John 3:19-21). It is that very darkness from which salvation in Christ delivers sinners.." (1) "5:8 darkness ... Light. This section emphasizes the contrast between light and darkness, showing that those who belong to Him who is "Light" (1 John 1:5), i.e., pure and true, not only have their lives illumined by Him but also are the means of introducing that light into the dark areas of human conduct (cf. Matt 5:14)." (2) Using both sources above in conjuction, sinners love the darkness, but we are, as the Amplified Bible states, to lead such a life as one who is native-born to the Light. So not only are we to be filled with the Light, but we are also the means to which Light shines in those dark places of human behavior (Matthew 5:14). Blessings to you, Makarios (1) The MacArthur Study Bible, 1997, Word Publishing, John MacArthur, pg. 1811 (2) The Zondervan NASB Study Bible, 1999, the Zondervan Corporation, Kenneth Barker, pg. 1724 |