What does Ephesians 6:6 mean?
What is the meaning of Ephesians 6:6?

And do this

- Paul is addressing people under authority, immediately after saying, “Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear” (Ephesians 6:5).

- “Do” moves the counsel from theory to action. God’s word expects obedience, not mere agreement (James 1:22; Matthew 7:24).

- Whatever role we hold—employee, student, volunteer—the call is to carry out assigned tasks faithfully, reflecting Christ’s character in tangible work (1 Corinthians 10:31).


Not only to please them while they are watching

- Surface-level compliance that turns on when supervisors appear is rejected. God sees what others miss (1 Samuel 16:7; Proverbs 15:3).

- Scripture warns against “eye-service,” a life lived for human applause (Colossians 3:22).

- Pleasing people as our ultimate motivation leads to spiritual compromise (Galatians 1:10).

- Practical takeaway: Integrity means the quality of our work remains consistent—cubicle, kitchen, or construction site—whether anyone is checking or not.


But as servants of Christ

- Earthly hierarchies are real, yet every believer’s primary identity is “servant of Christ” (Romans 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:22).

- This perspective transforms duty into worship. Scrubbing floors or managing portfolios becomes sacred when offered to Jesus (Colossians 3:23).

- Loyalty to Christ steadies us when human authorities are imperfect or unjust (1 Peter 2:18-20).


Doing the will of God from your heart

- God’s will is not grudgingly endured but wholeheartedly embraced (Psalm 40:8).

- The Spirit renews minds so obedience springs from inner conviction, not external pressure (Romans 12:2).

- Heart-level service guards against burnout, because motivation flows from love for the Lord rather than mere obligation (2 Corinthians 5:14).

- Practically, this means:

• Choosing excellence even in unnoticed tasks.

• Responding to criticism or praise the same way—by checking whether Christ is honored.

• Seeking God daily so that His priorities shape our attitudes and actions (Colossians 1:9-10).


summary

Ephesians 6:6 calls believers to active, consistent obedience that is deeper than eye-service. Our ultimate Supervisor is Christ, and every assignment becomes an arena for worship when done for Him. By anchoring motivation in God’s will and serving from the heart, we honor the Lord, bless earthly authorities, and display genuine integrity in all we do.

What historical context influenced the writing of Ephesians 6:5?
Top of Page
Top of Page