Identity in Christ

Our reading this Sunday in Ephesians 5 is replete with metaphors.  Paul employs images of family, temple sacrifice, idolatry, and light to convey the contrast between what is “proper among the saints” and what is not.  These metaphors are important to consider.  Without them, the text risks being misunderstood as an exercise in simply trying to be good.  With them, though, the text imparts deep love, sharp discernment, and firm exhortation.  Paul warns us of severe consequences for sin while describing our identity in Christ and the impact that has in us and through us.  What strikes me is how Paul is able to create more desire to follow Christ than all the other temptations that compete with him.  That is a timely message as we continue our season of Lent.