Ephesians 6:6 – “Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart.”

Extended Explanation

This verse is part of Paul’s instructions to Christian slaves, but its principle applies to anyone under authority. Paul is telling workers that their obedience should not be superficial—done only when the boss is watching or to gain favor—but should come from the heart as an act of service to God.

The phrase “not only to win their favor when their eye is on you” describes the wrong motivation for work. Some people work hard only when they are being observed, hoping for rewards or avoiding consequences. Paul teaches that true obedience is about integrity—doing what is right even when no one is watching.

The key to this verse is in the phrase “but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart.” This means that every Christian is ultimately serving Jesus, not just human authorities. Whether in a workplace, a school, or a home, our work is part of God’s will, and we should approach it with sincerity and devotion.

Paul is shifting the perspective from working for human approval to working for God’s glory. When believers view their jobs and responsibilities as service to Christ, even the most ordinary work becomes meaningful.

Historical Context

In the Roman world, slavery was a widespread institution, and many early Christians were either slaves or masters. Unlike later forms of slavery, Roman slavery was not always lifelong or race-based. Some slaves were well-educated, ran businesses, or even held positions of authority. Many were eventually freed.

For a Christian slave in the first century, this teaching was radical. Slaves had little control over their lives, yet Paul tells them their work matters because they are serving Christ. This teaching didn’t justify slavery but redefined how Christian slaves could view their work with dignity and purpose.

At the same time, Paul also addressed masters in Ephesians 6:9, instructing them to treat their slaves fairly because they were accountable to God. While Paul did not call for an immediate end to slavery, the teachings of Christianity ultimately led to its downfall by emphasizing human dignity and equality in Christ (Galatians 3:28, Philemon 16).

Theological Implications

This verse teaches that all work is ultimately for God. Whether someone is under a harsh boss or a kind one, their responsibility is to serve with integrity, knowing that God sees everything.

It also emphasizes that Christian obedience should come from the heart. External compliance without internal devotion is not true faithfulness. God desires willing service, not grudging obligation.

Another key truth here is that believers belong to Christ. The phrase “slaves of Christ” may seem uncomfortable, but it reminds us that we are not our own—we belong to Jesus, and our lives should reflect His will. Serving Him is not oppressive; it is the path to true purpose and freedom (Matthew 11:28-30).

Literary Analysis

Paul contrasts two types of service:

1. Work done for human approval – “Not only to win their favor when their eye is on you.”
2. Work done for God’s glory – “As slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart.”

The phrase “from your heart” highlights that Christian obedience is not just about actions but about attitude. True service to God is not forced or performed for show—it flows from a heart that desires to honor Him.

This verse is also part of a broader section on Christian household relationships (Ephesians 5:22-6:9), where Paul teaches that faith should transform every part of life, including work and authority structures.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Colossians 3:22-23 – “Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
• Matthew 6:1 – “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them.” (True obedience is about pleasing God, not people.)
• Galatians 1:10 – “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God?”
• Romans 12:11 – “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”
• 1 Corinthians 10:31 – “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

Even though slavery is no longer common, the principle in this verse applies directly to workplaces, schools, and any position where people serve under authority.

• Work with integrity – Christians should do their jobs well, even if no one is watching, because God always sees.
• Work as an act of worship – Whether sweeping floors or leading a company, every task can be done for God’s glory.
• Stop seeking human approval – People-pleasing leads to frustration, but working for Christ brings true fulfillment.
• Find purpose in every role – No job is meaningless when done for God. Even small tasks have eternal value.

This verse also challenges believers to examine their motivations. Are we working to impress others or to serve God faithfully?

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God cares about how we live our daily lives, not just our church attendance or spiritual activities. He sees the work of His people, even when others don’t. This shows that He values faithfulness in every part of life, not just in religious settings.

This verse also reminds us that God does not measure success the way the world does. He is more concerned with obedience and sincerity than with status or recognition. When Christians work for God, they can find peace and purpose, knowing He rewards faithfulness (Colossians 3:24).

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the ultimate example of serving with sincerity and devotion.

• Philippians 2:7-8 – “Rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!”
• John 13:14-15 – Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, showing that true greatness comes from serving.
• Matthew 20:28 – “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

If Jesus, the Son of God, humbled Himself and served faithfully, then His followers should do the same—working not for human praise, but for God’s glory.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Do you work harder when people are watching than when they are not? Why or why not?
2. How does this verse challenge your view of work and responsibilities?
3. In what ways can you shift your mindset to work for God rather than for human approval?
4. How does knowing that you are “a slave of Christ” change your attitude toward daily tasks?
5. What are some practical ways you can serve with sincerity and integrity in your workplace, home, or community?

Ephesians 6:6 reminds believers that every act of service—no matter how small—is meaningful when done for the Lord. Instead of chasing human recognition, Christians are called to work with sincerity, knowing that God sees, values, and rewards faithfulness.