Ephesians 5:21

ὑποτασσόμενοι�. An unexpected conclusion to the devotional outburst keeping it in strict relation to the commonplace duties of everyday life. This law of mutual subjection is paradoxical not in form only but in substance, for it covers all cases including those in authority as well as those under authority (see Hort Village Sermons in outline, p. 107). The closest parallels are Romans 12:10; Philippians 2:3. Origen adds Galatians 5:13 with a reference to the Feet-washing in John 13. It rests on the law of Christian leadership laid down by the Lord in Mark 10:43-45; cf. John 10:11. The devotion of the Good Shepherd to the service of His Flock is absolute.

ἐν φόβῳ Χριστοῦ. The relationship is consecrated and safeguarded on both sides by the thought of Christ. He is the ideal Husband, Parent, and Lord as well as Judge. Cf. Ephesians 6:5-9. On the place of ‘fear’ in the Christian life see Hort on 1 Peter 1:17.