June 30, 2015
Scripture: Ephesians 5:1-2
1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. (English Standard Version)
1Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. 2Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God. (New Living Translation)
1-2Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn’t love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that. (The Message)
Questions for Reflection:
Some times when you are studying a passage, it is helpful to look at a few different translations to help you get a broader understanding for what the author was trying to communicate. As you look at the three different translations (or paraphrases in the case of The Messasge), what do you notice from this passage? What do you learn about God as you study this passage? What do you learn about what it means to be a follower of Jesus from this passage? How can you apply those truths to your life today?