for the things which are done by them in secret it is a shame even to speak of.
These vile lusts were rife among pagans and must be cut out by the roots. Do not name them as though they were acceptable; hate them utterly as befit the saints. Guard even against foolish talking and jesting that cheapen what is holy.
AI summary
Commenting on Ephesians 5:3-20
12. Which are done by them in secret. This shews the advantage of reproving the ungodly. If they do but escape the eyes of men, there is no crime, however shocking to be mentioned, which they will not perpetrate. To use a common proverb, “Night has no shame.” What is the reason of this?
Here our apostle assigns particular reasons why the Ephesians should have no fellowship with the unfruitful workers and works of darkness, but reprove them; namely, 1. The abominable filthiness of those sins which the wicked pagans committed, especially in their heathen mysteries, prescribed by the devil as part of his worship; such things done in secret as it was even a shame to speak of. 2.