Ephesians 6:1
Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord, for this is the right thing to do.
Explanation:
Kids should listen to their parents because it’s the right thing, and it makes God happy.
Ephesians 6:2
“Honor your father and mother.” This is the first commandment with a promise:
Explanation:
Respect your mom and dad. God gave this rule with a special promise.
Ephesians 6:3
If you honor your father and mother, “things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth.”
Explanation:
If you respect your parents, God will bless your life and help you live long and well.
Ephesians 6:4
Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.
Explanation:
Dads, don’t make your kids angry by being mean. Teach them gently to follow God’s ways.
Ephesians 6:5
Slaves, obey your earthly masters with deep respect and fear. Serve them sincerely as you would serve Christ.
Explanation:
Workers (or servants back then) should obey their bosses like they are working for Jesus.
Ephesians 6:6
Try to please them all the time, not just when they are watching you. As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart.
Explanation:
Do a good job even when no one’s looking—because you’re really working for God.
Ephesians 6:7
Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.
Explanation:
Be excited to do your work, like you’re doing it for Jesus, not just people.
Ephesians 6:8
Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free.
Explanation:
God will bless anyone who does good—no matter who they are.
Ephesians 6:9
Masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Don’t threaten them; remember, you both have the same Master in heaven, and he has no favorites.
Explanation:
Bosses should treat their workers kindly, because God is everyone’s Master, and He treats everyone the same.
Ephesians 6:10
A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.
Explanation:
One last thing—be strong with God’s power!
Ephesians 6:11
Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.
Explanation:
Use all the tools God gives you so you can stay strong against the devil’s tricks.
Ephesians 6:12
For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.
Explanation:
We’re not fighting people. We’re fighting bad spiritual forces we can’t see.
Ephesians 6:13
Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm.
Explanation:
Use all of God’s armor so when hard times come, you won’t fall—you’ll still be standing strong.
Ephesians 6:14
Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness.
Explanation:
Hold your ground with truth like a belt and doing right like armor.
Ephesians 6:15
For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.
Explanation:
Wear peace like shoes—ready to share the Good News about Jesus.
Ephesians 6:16
In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.
Explanation:
Use faith like a shield to block the devil’s lies and attacks.
Ephesians 6:17
Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Explanation:
Wear salvation to protect your mind and use God’s Word like a sword to fight back.
Ephesians 6:18
Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.
Explanation:
Always pray with God’s help. Keep watching and praying for all of God’s people.
Ephesians 6:19
And pray for me, too. Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldly explain God’s mysterious plan that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike.
Explanation:
Pray for me (Paul), so I can share the Good News clearly and bravely with everyone.
Ephesians 6:20
I am in chains now, still preaching this message as God’s ambassador. So pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for him, as I should.
Explanation:
Even though I’m in jail, I’m still sharing God’s message. Pray I keep speaking bravely.
Ephesians 6:21
To bring you up to date, Tychicus will give you a full report about what I am doing and how I am getting along. He is a beloved brother and faithful helper in the Lord’s work.
Explanation:
Tychicus will tell you how I’m doing. He’s a good friend and helper in God’s work.
Ephesians 6:22
I have sent him to you for this very purpose—to let you know how we are doing and to encourage you.
Explanation:
I sent him so he can tell you about us and help you feel encouraged.
Ephesians 6:23
Peace be with you, dear brothers and sisters, and may God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you love with faithfulness.
Explanation:
I pray God gives you peace, love, and strong faith.
Ephesians 6:24
May God’s grace be eternally upon all who love our Lord Jesus Christ.
Explanation:
God’s kindness will always be with everyone who loves Jesus.