Ephesians 5:2

And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.

Ephesians 5:2 (KJV)

Context

Paul’s words in Ephesians 5:2 come within a passage urging believers to imitate God and live as children of light. The command to “walk in love” follows the call to be “followers of God” (Ephesians 5:1), showing that love is not an abstract ideal but a practical way of life that reflects the character of the Father.

Meaning

The Greek word translated “walk” (περιπατεῖτε) pictures a continuous lifestyle, not a single act. To “walk in love” means that our daily conduct—how we speak, serve, forgive, and treat others—is shaped by love. This love is not merely emotion or words; it is demonstrated through action and attitude, just as Christ’s love was shown in what He did.

The standard for this walk is Christ Himself: “as Christ also hath loved us.” His love was selfless, unconditional, and sacrificial. The verse emphasizes that He “hath given himself for us,” pointing to the voluntary and substitutionary nature of His death. He did not merely feel love; He acted on it by offering Himself.

The words “offering” and “sacrifice” are sacrificial terms. They point to Christ’s death as the perfect atonement for sin, fulfilling the Old Testament sacrificial system and securing forgiveness and reconciliation between God and humanity. His sacrifice was not only effective but also “a sweetsmelling savour” to God. This phrase echoes the pleasing aroma of burnt offerings in the Tabernacle and Temple (Leviticus 1:9, 13, 17; Genesis 8:21), indicating that the Father found Christ’s sacrifice acceptable and satisfying.

Biblical connections

The imagery of a “sweetsmelling savour” connects directly to the Old Testament, where offerings were described as a pleasing aroma to God. Christ’s sacrifice fulfills and surpasses those offerings, providing complete atonement. As believers, we are called to imitate His sacrificial love, being willing to give of ourselves for others.

Application

Ephesians 5:2 challenges us to examine our lives and evaluate how we demonstrate love toward others. Are we selflessly sacrificing for the sake of others? Are our actions and attitudes reflecting Christ’s sacrificial love? We should strive to walk in love, imitating Christ, and allowing His love to flow through us to impact those around us positively.

True love involves selflessness, sacrifice, and a genuine concern for others’ well-being. Our love should be pleasing to God, just as Christ’s sacrifice was, by following His example and being guided by the Holy Spirit. As we apply these principles, our relationships can be transformed, and we can reflect God’s love to the world.

Reflection

Consider the depth of Christ’s love: He gave Himself for us. How can you walk in that same love today—not just in feeling, but in concrete actions toward someone in need? Let His sacrifice inspire you to live a life that is a sweet-smelling savour to God.