Ephesians 6:5

κατὰ σάρκα. In the visible order—in accordance with existing social conditions—as distinct from the spiritual sphere in which Christ is the One Lord.

μετὰ φόβου καὶ τρόμου. Philippians 2:12; ‘with reverence and awe.’ An element of ‘fear’ enters into all relationships when their essential sacredness is realized. So Ephesians 5:21; Ephesians 5:33. In Colossians 3:22 we have expressly φοβούμενοι τὸν κύριον. Cf. 1 Peter 2:13-18.

ὡς τῷ χριστῷ. Fundamentally wrong as we now see the institution of slavery to be, yet the principle of order, including authority on the one hand and subordination on the other, is of Divine appointment, and the Christ can be seen in and revealed by both master (as here) and servant (1 Pet.).

ἐν ἁπλότητι τῆς καρδίας. Cf. 1 Chronicles 29:17; Wis 1:1. In N.T. ἁπλότης with its cognates is generally used with a suggestion of generosity in giving, the absence of grudging or envy, see Matthew 6:22; Luke 11:34; James 1:5, besides Romans 12:8; 2 Corinthians 8:2; 2 Corinthians 9:11; 2 Corinthians 9:13. The only passage where this thought is not on the surface is 2 Corinthians 11:3. In 2 Corinthians 1:12 the true reading is ἁγιότητι. Here the thought is of whole-hearted, ungrudging surrender to the will of Christ.