What does "any impurity or greed" mean in Ephesians 5:3? Ephesians 5:3 In Focus “But among you, as is proper among saints, there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or any kind of impurity, or of greed.” Unpacking “any impurity” (akatharsia) • The Greek word akatharsia literally means “uncleanness” or “filthiness,” signifying whatever defiles a person before God. • Includes visible acts (sexual misconduct, moral pollution) and invisible attitudes (perverse thoughts, impure motives). • Highlights total exclusion—“any kind,” not just obvious or severe forms. • Related verses: – Ephesians 4:19 — “they have given themselves up to sensuality for the practice of every kind of impurity.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:7 — “God has not called us to impurity but to holiness.” – Matthew 5:8 — “Blessed are the pure in heart,” underscoring inner cleanness. Discerning “greed” (pleonexia) • Pleonexia carries the idea of “grasping for more,” an insatiable appetite for possessions, pleasure, or power. • Paul labels it idolatry (Colossians 3:5) because it replaces trust in God with desire for gain. • Greed is not confined to the wealthy; it lurks wherever contentment in Christ is lacking. • Supporting passages: – Luke 12:15 — “Watch out and guard yourselves against every form of greed.” – Hebrews 13:5 — “Be content with what you have.” – 1 Timothy 6:10 — “The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” Why Paul Puts Impurity and Greed Side by Side • Both spring from self-centered craving—whether sexual, material, or emotional. • Both corrupt community life, turning fellow believers into objects for personal satisfaction. • Both are incompatible with the identity “saints” (holy ones) and therefore must not even receive a “hint” among believers. • Both invite judgment (Ephesians 5:5–6) because they oppose God’s character of purity and generosity. Living It Out—Practical Steps • Guard the heart (Proverbs 4:23): filter media, conversations, and thoughts. • Cultivate contentment (Philippians 4:11–13): thank God daily for His provision. • Practice generosity: give time, resources, and affection freely to break greed’s grip. • Pursue accountability: share struggles with trusted believers (James 5:16). • Fix eyes on Christ’s example of sacrificial love (Ephesians 5:2) as the antidote to impurity and greed. Summary “Any impurity” sweeps in every form of moral uncleanness, while “greed” exposes a heart that always wants more. Both undermine the holy, contented life God intends for His people. By the Spirit’s power, believers can reject these defilements and walk in the purity and generous love modeled by Jesus. |
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