«Redeeming the time, because the days are evil» (Ephesians 5:16).
IT IS often said that we should know how to take advantage of opportunities because they have an expiration date. The word «opportunity» comes from Latin and means «toward the port.» It gives the impression of a ship that takes advantage of the wind and current to reach the port safely.
Life being brief is a strong argument for making good use of the opportunities God gives us. The other argument is that the days are evil. In the time of Ephesians 5, «the evil days» were because of the persecution of the Roman Empire that threatened to weaken the fulfillment of the mission.
Next, I will draw a parallel between some modern ideas compared to the apostle’s «old ideas.»
Today, in many religious environments, the concept of the prosperity gospel pre. vails. It argues that the more faithful we are, the more we will have. In some cases, this might be true, but our relationship with God is not a business.
Today many religious people like to use their titles or experience, Paul preferred to call himself a slave or a debtor instead of an apostle.
Today many preach a motivational gospel, focused on self-esteem and self-help. It is an anthropocentric gospel, with an emphasis on what each one can do. Paul, however, preached the gospel of Jesus Christ because it is impossible for man to save himself. It was not based on one’s own wisdom but on the wisdom that comes from God.
Today many give themselves praise, even for their own good works. Paul sought to do everything for the glory of God because he knew he had nothing to glorify himself with. Paul fulfilled what Charles Spurgeon would sum up centuries later: «Tell all that God has done for you, but say nothing of what you do for God. Don’t promote applause, promote His glory.»
Today many water down the doctrine—they dilute it, provide it at a discount. Paul always held doctrine aloft and did not negotiate with the message. He could negotiate the customs, but never with the foundation.
Ellen G. White wrote: «Life is too short to be trifled away. We have but a few days of probation in which to prepare for eternity. We have no time to waste, no time to devote to selfish pleasure, no time for the indulgence of sin» (Christ’s Object Lessons, p 342).
Let us wake up from sleep (Rom. 13:11) and put to work all our God-given skills.
Let us redeem time—that is to say, let us make up for lost time. Not just because the days are evil. They are also the last.
