Ephesians 6:5-9
5 Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;6 Not with eyeservice, as men pleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;7 With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men:8 Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.
9 And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him.
Discussion Questions:
1. How is vs 5-8 applicable to us today?
2. What is the significance of “singleness [sincerity] of heart” at work/school?
3. Why does Paul qualify our masters as “according to the flesh”?
4. Reflection: In leadership opportunities, do we threaten/bully others into submission or do we supportively come alongside them to motivate them to maximize their potentials? What 2 things can I change to have a more Christlike leadership style.
Summary: Service For His Glory
• The Submission of the Son – Phil 2:5-8, John 8:29
• The Selflessness of the Spirit – John 16:13
And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
18 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.19 Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.20 Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.21 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.22 Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God;
23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. – Col 3:17-24
