What does it mean to "walk in love" as Paul commands in Ephesians 5:2?

In this verse-by-verse Bible study, Nathan Johnson unpacks the radical nature of agapē love—a love that is not passive, emotional, or circumstantial, but a steadfast, sacrificial commitment modeled after Christ Himself.

Paul's command to "walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us" reveals that biblical love is not measured by our comfort or preference, but by the extravagance of God's own self-giving love. This message explores five defining characteristics of agapē love and shows why walking in love is only possible when we live out of union with Christ, who is love.

If you've ever wondered how Christian love differs from the world's version—or felt the gap between how you love and how Christ loves—this Ephesians 5:2 exposition will challenge and equip you to pursue a love that costs something.

1. Watch the video version of the study on YouTube
2. See the notes for this study

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Deeper Christian Bible Study in Ephesians • Study 125

» Join the Deeper Christian community and receive the Deeper Digest each Saturday—which includes all the quotes, articles, podcasts, and resources from Nathan and the ministry of Deeper Christian from the week to help you grow spiritually. Sign up at: deeperchristian.com/digest

» Watch the Ephesians Bible Study studies on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIigCRFn5DR0tmIuFjc9chXIZXXRT7ouH

» Receive other Christ-centered teaching and resources at: deeperchristian.com

In Ephesians 5:1, the Apostle Paul makes a stunning declaration about our identity in Christ—we are God's beloved children, adopted as true heirs with full access to the Father's love and affection.

In this Bible study, Nathan Johnson unpacks what it means to be God's cherished child and how this transformative truth should shape the way we live, worship, and walk with Jesus.

If you've ever questioned your worth, struggled to believe God truly delights in you, or wondered what it means to be loved by the Father, this expositional teaching will ground you in the unchanging reality of your adoption in Christ. Whether you're studying Ephesians verse-by-verse or seeking to deepen your understanding of your identity as a Christian, this message will help you grasp the profound privilege and practical implications of being called God's beloved child.

1. Watch the video version of the study on YouTube
2. See the notes for this study

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Deeper Christian Bible Study in Ephesians • Study 124

» Join the Deeper Christian community and receive the Deeper Digest each Saturday—which includes all the quotes, articles, podcasts, and resources from Nathan and the ministry of Deeper Christian from the week to help you grow spiritually. Sign up at: deeperchristian.com/digest

» Watch the Ephesians Bible Study studies on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIigCRFn5DR0tmIuFjc9chXIZXXRT7ouH

» Receive other Christ-centered teaching and resources at: deeperchristian.com

What does Paul really mean when he commands believers to be “imitators of God” in Ephesians 5:1? Is Christian living about striving harder to act like Jesus—or something far deeper?

In this Christ-centered teaching, Nathan explains why imitating Christ is impossible apart from Christ Himself and why true imitation must flow from divine impartation, not human effort. This message unpacks the gospel logic behind Ephesians 5:1, exposing the difference between external behavior modification and genuine spiritual transformation, and offers three essential reminders for anyone who desires to live an authentic Christian life shaped by the indwelling life of Jesus Christ.

1. Watch the video version of the study on YouTube
2. See the notes for this study

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Deeper Christian Bible Study in Ephesians • Study 123

» Join the Deeper Christian community and receive the Deeper Digest each Saturday—which includes all the quotes, articles, podcasts, and resources from Nathan and the ministry of Deeper Christian from the week to help you grow spiritually. Sign up at: deeperchristian.com/digest

» Watch the Ephesians Bible Study studies on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIigCRFn5DR0tmIuFjc9chXIZXXRT7ouH

» Receive other Christ-centered teaching and resources at: deeperchristian.com