Filled with the Spirit
5: 1-21
Paul begins Ephesians 5 in the same way as he did the previous chapter – with the word therefore. This word refers back to the forgiveness believers have found in Messiah (4:32). In Ephesians, the concept of forgiveness is connected to two vital biblical themes: redemption and grace (1:7). The concept of redemption can be clearly seen in the Torah (see the commentary on Leviticus, to see link click Ek – The Sabbath Year and the Year of Jubilee). What prompted this magnanimous gesture of redemption and forgiveness, this restoration of lost status before ADONAI? Without question, the source of our forgiveness is the marvelous grace of God. Mentioned eleven times in Ephesians prior to Chapter 5, grace is the source through which we are given new life in Messiah: For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast (2:8-9 NIV). The word used for forgiveness in 4:32 (Greek: echarisato) is not the typical word used. In this verse, the Rabbi used a rarer word meaning to show favor, or to give freely. It could be translated to graciously forgive. These two great concepts – redemption and grace – illuminate the beauty and depth of God’s forgiveness.
A key characteristic of the doctrine of the Ruach Ha’Kodesh is His divine Name and personal nature. He is not merely an impersonal force like energy. Ephesians 4:30 speaks of grieving the Spirit. The Ruach is the Third Person of the Trinity, and is to be revered and worshiped in that manner. His work is to make clear the active presence of YHVH. In the TaNaKh, there is a frequent connection between the Spirit of God and wisdom (Exodus 31:3; 35:31; Isaiah 11:2). In Ephesians 5, the work of the Ruach Ha’Kodesh is to provide wisdom for the performance of practical tasks in the service of our Lord. God doesn’t simply give us a little taste of wisdom; He pours it out on us in abundance (1:8) as a part of a new life found in Yeshua Messiah. In some way that is beyond our complete understanding, believers even declare this wisdom to rulers and authorities in the heavens (3:10). It seems reasonable to conclude that this communication is modeled through wise living that is observed by the angels. A wise walk, filled with the Ruach, is part of God’s eternal purpose and glory.193
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