Ephesians 5:12

Shame. Christian delicacy and refinement will not permit the discussion of certain things, let alone the practice of them. Usually it is sufficient to name evils without describing them and their processes in detail. A certain frankness is to be commended, but little can be said in favor of the startling bluntness with which sin is often discussed in our sophisticated age. Paul named and denounced shameful vices (vs. 3-5), but he did not paint them in lurid colors so as to appeal to the low and sensual appetites of readers.

In secret. Paul may have been referring to some of the “mysteries” celebrated by pagans, which were accompanied by lewd and obscene initiation ceremonies. Or he may have been alluding simply to those evil practices that the corrupt or weak person secretly engages in.