Ian & Jocelyn Barker

Paul continues to call the saints to a higher calling. They are not to partake of the spirit of the world, which scoffs at the idea that wickedness will exclude a person from the kingdom of God. They are better than that because they are children of light and not of the darkness. They are to expose the works of darkness, rather than participating in them.

It is interesting to consider what Paul means by exposing the deeds of darkness. He tells us to expose them in verse 11, but then in verse 12 he says that it is “disgraceful even to speak” of them. Does this mean that we bring disgrace upon ourselves by paying attention to their deeds, or does he mean it in the sense of it bringing disgrace on the one in darkness? I wonder if he is trying to uproot an inclination to stare at the deeds of darkness. In other words, were believers paying too much attention to the disgraceful acts? Had it become the center of attention? This seems to be possible, because in verse 13 he tells them that “all things become visible when they are exposed by the light.” Paul seems to be advocating a lifestyle that brings conviction upon those who are walking in darkness. If they see the good deeds and the love of Christ that is in us, then they will turn. But if they do not know anything other than darkness, what are they going to turn to?

This reminds me of that famous quote: “At all times preach the gospel; use words when necessary.” Paul is encouraging the church in Ephesus to not be overwhelmed by darkness, but to live a life that shines bright in the darkness.