Ephesians 5:6-11
What is written? (ESV)
Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not become partners with them; for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.
What does it say?
Don’t let anyone trick you with vain words, since the conduct just described brings God's wrath on the sons of disobedience, so don’t join yourself to them. You used to be like them – in the dark – but now you are light thanks to Jesus. Behave that way, since the deeds of light are good and right and true. Make every effort to judge what is pleasing to God. Don’t join yourself to the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but expose them.
What is its immediate context?
After urging the Christians in Ephesus to be “eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit” (4:3), he encourages them to be “imitators of God” (5:1) and to “walk in love” (5:2).
How Ephesians 5:6-11 is applied across Bible answers
What is Christian fellowship?
Paul instructs Christians to not be "partners with" (e.g. have fellowship with) those who are speaking "empty words".
The encouragement, or what to do instead, is found a little later in vs 17, "but be wise by understanding what the Lord’s will is".
