Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Ephesians 4:25-32

Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Reading of Ephesians 4:25-32

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Ephesians 4:25-32 as a practical outworking of our sanctification in the Spirit, rooted in the sovereign grace of God. This passage calls us to live as new creations in Christ, reflecting the transformative power of the covenant of grace. The imperatives here are not mere moral instructions but are grounded in our identity as those effectually called and regenerated by the Spirit. As members of the covenant community, we are to embody truthfulness, righteous anger, and forgiveness as expressions of our union with Christ and the renewed image of God in us.

Key Language Decisions

In the Greek, the word 'aletheia' (truth) in verse 25 emphasizes not just accurate speech but living in the reality of God's revealed truth. The term 'koinonia' (community) is implicit in the call to speak truth to 'one another,' highlighting the communal aspect of our sanctification. The verb 'charizomai' in verse 32, translated as 'forgiving,' is deeply connected to 'charis' (grace), underscoring that our forgiveness is a reflection of the grace we have received in Christ.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike Arminian traditions that might emphasize the human decision to adopt new behaviors, we assert that these exhortations are the fruit of God's effectual grace and not the cause of our new identity. Roman Catholic interpretations may see these as cooperative works in maintaining justification, whereas we see them as the inevitable fruit of justification by faith alone. This distinction matters because it preserves the monergistic nature of salvation and underscores the assurance rooted in God's unchangeable decree.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this passage, we should emphasize that the transformation Paul describes is a work of sovereign grace, calling us to live out our new identity in Christ. We are to encourage our congregation to trust in the Spirit's work within them, reminding them that these exhortations are not burdens to earn favor, but the joyful response of a redeemed people. Pastors should apply these truths to foster a community characterized by honesty, righteous reconciliation, and grace-filled forgiveness, reflecting the reality of the covenant of grace and the unity we have in our Lord. Our people expect to hear that their obedience is rooted in God's unshakeable decree and that their sanctification is secured by Christ's finished work.

Cross-References: Colossians 3:9-10; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Romans 12:1-2; Galatians 5:16-25

Doctrinal Connections: sanctification; union with Christ; effectual calling; covenant of grace