In today’s message, we look at how power is used in God’s kingdom. In Ephesians 5:21-6:9 Paul talks about how Christian relationships should work. While people often use the passage to justify the subordination of women, there’s a lot more going on. This is because Paul didn’t write Ephesians in a vacuum. Consequently, while on its face it seems to say wives should obey their husbands, it’s really about the dynamics of power in God’s kingdom.

The commands to people in power are consistent with cultural values at the time. Yet, the commands the one in power to be loving towards the less powerful person are new. This is because God’s kingdom and Caesar’s kingdom have different models of authority. Caesar’s demands authority, while Jesus loves and serves those under his care. Power in God’s kingdom is for serving the powerless.

Applying this in our world means that those in power should use their power to serve those under them.

Questions for Reflection:

Watch the video and reflect on these questions. Then, share your answers in the comments section. Let us know what you think.

1. Does this change how I think about interpreting scripture?
2. How do I see authority properly working within a marriage?
3. In which of my relationships do I exercise authority or influence? How should exercising that authority look if I use Jesus as my model?
4. Who has authority over me? Do I serve them as Jesus serves others? What might keep me from doing so?

Other Sermons In This Series

1.  Blessed and Adopted (Ephesians 1:3-14)
2.  Understanding the Authority of Jesus (Ephesians 1:15-23)
3. From Death To Life (Ephesians 2:1-10)
4. Diversity Without Hostility (Ephesians 2:11-22)
5. A Message of Wisdom (Ephesians 3:1-13)
6. The Fullness of God (Ephesians 3:14-21)
7. The Bond of Unity (Ephesians 4:1-16)
8. Becoming Truly Human (Ephesians 4:17-24)
9. Building A Strong Church Community (Ephesians 4:25-5:2)
10. Children of Light (Ephesians 5:3-20)