Meaning of Ephesians 4:28

This verse from Ephesians 4:28 marks a significant shift in behavior prescribed for believers, moving from a past of illicit gain to a present of productive contribution. Paul, writing to the church in Ephesus, is not merely offering advice; he is articulating a fundamental transformation that the gospel effects. The imperative to cease stealing and instead engage in honest labor stems directly from the new identity and purpose found in Christ. This is not simply about external compliance but an internal reorientation that values integrity, diligence, and generosity as hallmarks of a redeemed life, enabling believers to not only sustain themselves but also to actively participate in caring for the less fortunate.

Context and Background

Ephesians 4 is part of Paul's exhortation to live a life worthy of the calling received in Christ, emphasizing unity within the church and a transformed lifestyle. Before this verse, Paul discusses the shedding of the "old self" characterized by deceit and falsehood (Ephesians 4:22, 25), and the putting on of the "new self" created in righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:24). Stealing, therefore, is presented as a vestige of the former life, incompatible with the new humanity in Christ. The Greco-Roman world, like many ancient societies, had issues with poverty and theft, and the early church was a diverse community reflecting various socioeconomic backgrounds, including those who may have resorted to dishonest means to survive before their conversion.

Key Themes and Messages

• Transformation of Behavior: The verse presents a clear, actionable command: stop stealing, start working. This highlights the practical outworking of faith.
• Dignity of Labor: "Doing something useful with their own hands" emphasizes the value and honor of honest work, irrespective of its perceived status. It is a means of self-respect and contribution.
• Generosity and Stewardship: The ultimate purpose of this honest labor is not merely personal provision but the ability to "share with those in need." This underscores the Christian ethic of mutual support and the responsible stewardship of God's provision.
• Ethical Imperative: For believers, ethical conduct is not optional; it is a consequence of their spiritual rebirth and a demonstration of their new allegiance.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, this verse speaks to the sanctification process, where believers are progressively conformed to the image of Christ. The act of working honestly and sharing generously reflects the character of God, who is both a provider and a giver. It is an application of the principle of loving one's neighbor by meeting their material needs through one's own efforts. For contemporary believers, this translates to a commitment to ethical employment, fair business practices, and a proactive approach to supporting those facing hardship within and outside the church community. It challenges any notion that faith is solely an internal affair, demanding its tangible expression in the marketplace and in acts of compassion.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This directive aligns with the Old Testament's emphasis on justice, fairness, and care for the poor and vulnerable. Laws concerning gleaning in fields (Leviticus 19:9-10) and prohibitions against oppression (Exodus 22:21-23) laid the groundwork for a society that valued equitable distribution and compassion. Jesus' teachings on serving the least of these (Matthew 25:31-46) and his own example of a humble, working life further reinforce this theme. The early church's commitment to caring for widows and the needy (Acts 6:1-6) demonstrates this principle in action. Ephesians 4:28 is a continuation of this unbroken thread of biblical ethics, demonstrating how the New Covenant calls for a renewed commitment to these principles, empowered by the indwelling Spirit.

Analogies

• A Renovated House: Just as a house undergoing renovation has old, broken fixtures removed and replaced with new, functional ones that serve the household, so too does the believer shed the "old self" behaviors like stealing and install "new self" practices like honest work and generosity.
• A Farmer's Harvest: A farmer diligently works the land, plants seeds, and tends crops. The harvest, earned through labor, is then used for sustenance and shared with others in the community. This mirrors the believer's honest labor producing fruit that can be shared.
• A Well-Oiled Machine: Each part of a well-functioning machine performs its specific task efficiently, contributing to the overall operation. Similarly, each believer, through honest work, contributes to the healthy functioning and support of the body of Christ and the wider community.

Relation to Other Verses

• Colossians 3:23-24: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." This verse echoes the sentiment of working diligently and for a higher purpose.
• 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12: "...make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win respect from outsiders and that you may not be dependent on anybody." This passage also connects honest labor with good witness and self-sufficiency.
• 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12: "For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: ‘The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.’ We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive... Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat." This highlights the disincentive for idleness and the importance of contributing.
• Proverbs 22:7: "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender." This proverb points to the financial freedom and integrity that comes from earning one's own way.