4 I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called,
2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love,
3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—
5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism
6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
7 But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift.
8 Therefore it says, “When he ascended on high he led a host of captives, and he gave gifts to men.”
9 (In saying, “He ascended,” what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower regions, the earth?)
10 He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.
11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers,
12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ,
13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ,
14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes.
15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ.
16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.
17 Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds.
18 They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart.
19 They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity.
20 But that is not the way you learned Christ! – Ephesians 4:20 (ESV)
21 assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus,
22 to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires,
23 and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds,
24 and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.
25 Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another.
26 Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger,
27 and give no opportunity to the devil.
28 Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need.
29 Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.
30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.
31 Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.
32 Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.
The True Meaning of Ephesians 4
The Epistle to the Ephesians was written by the Apostle Paul, a former persecutor of the early Christian church who experienced a dramatic conversion and became one of the most influential figures in the spread of Christianity. Paul addresses the unity and diversity of the church in this chapter, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the bond of peace and working together for the common good.
The chapter begins by urging the Ephesian believers to “walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called.” This sets the tone for the rest of the passage, which outlines the responsibilities and expectations of those who have been called to follow Christ. Paul reminds the readers that there is “one body and one Spirit” and that they are to “maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”
The chapter also touches on the diversity of gifts and roles within the church, as Paul explains that Christ has given different people different abilities and responsibilities for the purpose of “equipping the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” This theme of unity in diversity is further explored in the later verses, where Paul encourages the believers to “put off your old self” and “be renewed in the spirit of your minds.”
Throughout the passage, Paul draws on other biblical references, such as the concept of the “new self” being created in the image of God, which is echoed in the book of Colossians. The chapter concludes with a call to “walk in love” and to “put away all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander.”
Ephesians 4:1-6
The apostle Paul writes in Ephesians 4:1-6, “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”
The first thing that stands out in these verses is the emphasis on unity and the call to live a life that reflects this unity with our fellow believers. Paul starts by stating that he is a prisoner for the Lord, reminding the Ephesians that his sufferings are for the sake of Christ and the Gospel. This sets the tone for his exhortation to the believers to live a life that is worthy of their calling as followers of Christ.
The qualities Paul mentions – humility, gentleness, patience, and love – are essential in maintaining peace and unity within the body of Christ. Humility allows us to consider others above ourselves, gentleness helps us respond to others with kindness and compassion, patience enables us to bear with one another’s weaknesses, and love is the foundation of all relationships within the church. These virtues are not only important in the context of the early church but are timeless principles that are relevant for all believers throughout history.
The mention of “one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all” underscores the oneness of the body of Christ. This unity is not based on our own efforts or achievements but on the foundational truths of our faith. Believers are united in Christ through the Holy Spirit, sharing one hope of salvation, acknowledging one Lord, professing one faith, participating in one baptism, and recognizing one God the Father of all. This unity amidst diversity is a powerful testimony to the world of the transformative work of the Gospel in bringing together people from various backgrounds and cultures into one family of God.
This passage in Ephesians 4 echoes other teachings in the Bible that emphasize the importance of unity among believers. Paul compares the church to a body with many members in Romans 12:4-5, each with its unique function but all working together for the good of the whole. Paul elaborates on the diversity of spiritual gifts within the body of Christ in 1 Corinthians 12 but emphasizes that they are all given by the same Spirit for the common good. These passages highlight the interconnectedness of believers and the need for harmony and mutual edification within the church. Ephesians 4:1-6 powerfully reminds believers of the call to unity and the virtues that should characterize their lives. We reflect the character of Christ and contribute to the unity and peace of the body of Christ by living in humility, gentleness, patience, and love. As followers of Jesus, let us strive to maintain the unity of the Spirit and demonstrate the love of God to the world through our relationships with one another.
Ephesians 4:7-13
A few key sections in Ephesians 4:7-13 provide us with profound insights into the Christian faith when we break them down.
Verse 7: “But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.” This verse underscores the concept of grace being a gift bestowed upon believers by Christ. Grace, in the context of Christianity, is the unmerited favor of God. It is through grace that Christians are saved, not by their own works or deeds (Ephesians 2:8-9). The idea of grace being apportioned by Christ reminds us that each believer has a unique role and purpose in the body of Christ. This also emphasizes the sovereignty of Christ in distributing gifts to believers according to His divine plan and wisdom (1 Corinthians 12:11).
Verse 8: “This is why it says: ‘When he ascended on high, he took many captives and gave gifts to his people.’” This verse is a reference to Psalm 68:18, which speaks of a victorious king who ascends to His throne after a triumphant conquest. Typically, in the New Testament context, people understand this verse to refer to Christ’s victory over sin and death through His death and resurrection. The imagery of Christ taking captives and giving gifts to His people symbolizes the liberation from the bondage of sin that believers experience through Christ. This act of liberation and gift-giving is a central theme in the Gospel message, reflecting the redemptive work of Christ on the cross.
Verse 11: “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers.” Here, Paul identifies specific roles within the body of Christ that are given as gifts by Christ Himself. These roles – apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers – are instrumental in equipping believers for the work of ministry and for building up the body of Christ. Apostles were foundational figures in the early church, entrusted with spreading the Gospel and establishing churches (Ephesians 2:20). Prophets were gifted with insight and revelation to edify the church and bring clarity to God’s will (1 Corinthians 14:3). Evangelists proclaimed the Good News of Jesus Christ to the world, pastors cared for and shepherded God’s flock, and teachers provided instruction and guidance in the faith. Each of these roles plays a crucial part in the spiritual growth and unity of the church.
Verses 12-13: “to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.” These verses highlight the purpose of the gifts given to the church by Christ – to equip believers for ministry, to promote unity in the faith, and to facilitate spiritual maturity. The ultimate goal of this equipping and building up is to conform believers to the image of Christ, which involves growing in knowledge, faith, and character to reflect the fullness of Christ. This process of maturation is ongoing and entails the entire body of Christ working together in love and unity to attain a deeper understanding and experience of the truth of the Gospel. Ephesians 4:7-13 emphasizes the importance of unity, spiritual growth, and the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ. Through Christ’s grace and the gifts He bestows, believers are called to work together diligently, each contributing their unique talents and abilities for the edification of the church and the advancement of the Kingdom of God. The passage also underscores the significance of leadership roles in the church and the essential role they play in equipping believers for ministry and fostering spiritual maturity.
Ephesians 4:14-16
The apostle Paul writes in Ephesians 4:14-16, “Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.” Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.”
Breaking down this verse, Paul first highlights the importance of spiritual maturity. He uses the analogy of infants being easily swayed and tossed around by external influences. This signifies believers who are not firmly rooted in their faith and can easily be led astray by false teachings and deceptive practices. To counter this vulnerability, Paul emphasizes the significance of speaking the truth in love. This underscores the idea that love should be the foundation upon which truth is shared within the body of Christ. True maturity is not just about knowledge but also about applying that knowledge in a loving and compassionate manner towards others.
Paul then alludes to Christ as the head of the body, the Church. This metaphor of the body illustrates the interconnectedness and interdependence of believers within the church. Each member has a unique role and function, akin to different parts of a body working together. Just as the body functions harmoniously when each part does its work, the church thrives when every member contributes and serves according to their gifts and abilities. This demonstrates the importance of unity and collaboration within the body of Christ.
The concept of growth is also central to this passage. Paul indicates that the body grows and builds itself up in love. This growth is not merely numerical but also pertains to spiritual maturity and unity among believers. Love serves as the catalyst for this growth, binding believers together and fostering a sense of community and mutual support. This echoes the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized the commandment to love one another as a defining mark of His disciples (John 13:34-35). Ephesians 4:14-16 underscores the importance of spiritual maturity, truth spoken in love, unity in diversity, and growth through love within the body of Christ. These principles are timeless and remain relevant for believers today as they navigate the challenges of false teachings, strive for unity amidst diversity, and seek to grow and mature in their faith individually and collectively.
Ephesians 4:17-24
Believers can break down the passage in Ephesians 4:17-24 into several important sections that delve into the transformation that should occur in their lives.
First, in verse 17, it starts by admonishing believers to no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. This highlights a key distinction between believers and non-believers – believers are called to live differently, not conforming to the patterns of this world but being transformed by the renewing of their minds (Romans 12:2). The “futility of their minds” refers to the emptiness and darkness in which unbelievers walk due to their ignorance and hardness of heart towards God. This emphasizes the importance of a renewed mind which is essential for spiritual growth and renewal.
Moving on to verse 18 and 19, it describes the state of those who are alienated from God – having their understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to the hardness of their hearts. This emphasizes the idea that apart from God, individuals operate in spiritual darkness and are cut off from the abundant life that comes from being in relationship with God. This is reminiscent of the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32, where the son who squandered his inheritance represents those who are alienated from God but find restoration and life upon returning to Him. The passage shifts to a message of hope and change in verse 20-24. It speaks of believers who have been taught in Christ, to put off the old self, which belongs to their former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of their minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. This process of putting off the old self and putting on the new self is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life. It signifies a transformation that occurs when individuals surrender their lives to Christ. This transformation is not just superficial but goes deep into the core of their being, renewing their minds and hearts. The references to “true righteousness and holiness” highlight the moral and spiritual transformation that believers should undergo, reflecting the image of God who is holy. Ephesians 4:17-24 underscores the importance of spiritual transformation in the lives of believers. It contrasts the darkness of the world with the light of Christ, emphasizing the need for believers to renew their minds and live in righteousness and holiness. This passage serves as a reminder of the ongoing process of sanctification in the life of a believer and the continual renewal that comes from being in Christ.
Ephesians 4:25-32
The apostle Paul provides practical guidance to the believers in Ephesus on how to live as followers of Christ in Ephesians 4:25-32. Let’s break down this passage into important sections for deeper understanding.
Starting with Ephesians 4:25 – “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.” Here, Paul emphasizes the importance of honesty among believers. He urges them to let go of deceitful ways and to communicate truthfully with one another. This command is rooted in the truth that as members of the body of Christ, they are interconnected and should treat each other with love and respect. This instruction aligns with the overarching theme of unity in the body of Christ, which is a recurring theme in the book of Ephesians (Ephesians 4:1-6). Do not sin in your anger; do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold, as stated in Ephesians 4:26-27.” Paul acknowledges that it is normal to experience anger, but he warns against allowing that anger to lead to sin. He encourages the believers to resolve conflicts quickly and not let bitterness take root by advising them not to let the sun go down on their anger. Allowing unresolved anger to linger can create division and provide an opportunity for Satan to sow discord among believers. This advice correlates with Jesus’ teaching on reconciliation in Matthew 5:23-24 and serves as a practical application of maintaining unity within the body of Christ.
Continuing with Ephesians 4:28 – “Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.” Paul addresses the issue of dishonesty and theft within the community of believers. He instructs those who used to steal to not only stop their dishonest practices but also to engage in honest work. This newfound work ethic is not only for personal gain but also to be able to contribute to the needs of others. This reflects the biblical principle of generosity and caring for the less fortunate, as highlighted in Proverbs 19:17 and 2 Corinthians 9:6-7.
Finally, Ephesians 4:29-32 encapsulates the essence of this passage – “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Here, Paul emphasizes the power of words and their ability to either build up or tear down others. He reminds believers of the importance of speaking edifying words that benefit others and honor God. Additionally, he warns against behaviors that grieve the Holy Spirit, such as bitterness, anger, and slander. Instead, Paul encourages them to embody qualities of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness, mirroring the grace and forgiveness they have received through Christ. This reflects the central message of reconciliation and forgiveness throughout the Bible, such as in Colossians 3:12-14 and Matthew 6:14-15. Ephesians 4:25-32 provides clear instructions on how believers should conduct themselves in their relationships within the body of Christ. Paul’s teachings on honesty, anger, work ethic, speech, and forgiveness serve to promote unity, love, and mutual respect among believers. These timeless principles continue to be relevant for Christians today, guiding them in their walk with Christ and their interactions with others.
After Ephesians 4
Beloved congregation, as we reflect on the teachings from Ephesians 4, let us remember the call to unity and maturity in our faith. The apostle Paul urged us to walk in a manner worthy of our calling, with humility, gentleness, patience, and love towards one another. Let us strive to maintain this unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace by building each other up in love and growing together in Christ. We should hold fast to the truth that we are all members of one body, each with unique gifts and roles to fulfill as we prepare to delve into the next chapter of Ephesians. Let us diligently use these gifts to edify the body of Christ and spread the message of hope and salvation to all. May we continue to grow in our faith, rooted and grounded in love, as we eagerly anticipate the wisdom and guidance that the following chapter will bring. Amen.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.