This research paper by Garrett Black, submitted to Dr. Robert J. Cara for Greek Exegesis at Reformed Theological Seminary – Charlotte, examines Ephesians 5:11 as a mandate for active, verbal evangelism rather than mere moral example. Black argues that Paul’s exhortation to “expose” darkness calls believers to proclaim truth to a world lost in sin, reflecting the transformative power of Christ’s light through verbal witness.
Through grammatical and contextual analysis of key terms—particularly ἐλέγχω (“to expose, reprove”)—the paper demonstrates that Paul envisions external, vocal confrontation with sin rather than private reflection or passive morality. Black contrasts interpretations that limit this command to intra-church correction with those that recognize it as a missional directive. Drawing on Reformed commentators such as Calvin and Hodge, he concludes that Paul’s imperative is evangelistic, urging believers to confront sin and proclaim the gospel that brings sinners from darkness into light.
Black concludes that Ephesians 5:11 unites moral purity with missionary responsibility. To “expose the darkness” is to bear witness to the saving light of Christ in both word and deed. The believer’s rebuke of sin becomes a participation in God’s redemptive work, as the Church shines the light of the gospel into every shadow of the world.
Course and semester: Greek Exegesis — Spring 2020