In Ephesians 5:1-2, Paul refers to the security of our love from God the Father as the basis of our love for others. We can love others because we have been loved by Him.
That principle then begs the question, “What are the qualities of a loved child, and how will those qualities impact his/her conduct toward others?” Scripture offers a number of answers to that question:
- Correction may be received with the security that it does not diminish the relationship as son (1 Cor. 4:14).
- There is a uniqueness” to the relationship; it is not readily replicated (1 Cor. 4:15).
- In human terms, these unique relationships come through the work of the gospel (1 Cor. 4:15).
- He not only “imitates” the father, but he knows the thoughts, intentions, and heart of the father (1 Cor. 4:17).
- As children of God, we will be like Him (1 Jn. 3:2).
- Being beloved and having the certainty of being like Him, children of God do all they can to make themselves pure (1 Jn. 3:3).
- Verses 3, 6, 15, 22, and 25 of this passage also draw further implications for conduct that is the result of this special sonship.
- Our sonship is for the purpose of giving us the rights and blessings of God’s inheritance (Gal. 4:7).
Words of Grace 