Ephesians 4 calls us to live in a way that reflects our calling as followers of Christ. Paul urges us to walk in humility, patience, and love, keeping unity in the Spirit through the bond of peace. He reminds us that we are one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of all. This oneness is not just a theological concept but a reality that should shape how we treat one another. Our differences in background, personality, or personal convictions do not divide us because we belong to the same family in Christ.
Unity, however, does not mean uniformity. Paul explains that Christ has given each of us grace according to the measure of His gift. Some are called to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and others pastors and teachers. These roles are meant to equip us for the work of ministry, helping us grow into maturity in Christ. The goal is that we no longer remain as children, tossed back and forth by every new teaching or deception, but instead grow into the fullness of Christ. This is a reminder that spiritual growth is a process, and we all have a role in encouraging one another toward maturity.
Paul emphasizes that we must speak the truth in love. This balance is crucial because truth without love can be harsh, while love without truth can be misleading. As we grow together, we are called to build each other up, helping the body of Christ function as it should. Every part of the body has a role, and when we each do our part, the whole body thrives. This encourages us to see our contributions—whether big or small—as vital to the health and mission of the church.
A significant shift in this chapter happens when Paul contrasts the old way of life with the new life we have in Christ. He reminds us that we should no longer live as the world does, with darkened understanding and hardened hearts. Instead, we have been taught to put off our old selves, which were corrupted by deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of our minds. This transformation is not simply about behavior modification but a deep renewal from within. We are called to put on the new self, created after God’s likeness in righteousness and holiness.
This transformation has practical implications. Paul calls us to put away falsehood and speak truthfully to one another because we are members of the same body. He also addresses anger, telling us that while it is not necessarily sinful, we should not let it lead us into sin or allow it to linger. Holding onto anger gives the enemy an opportunity to create division and bitterness in our hearts. This reminds us to be quick to reconcile and seek peace with others.
Paul also speaks about how we use our words. He warns against corrupt or harmful talk and instead encourages us to speak in a way that builds others up and gives grace to those who hear. Our words have power; they can heal or wound, encourage or discourage. As followers of Christ, we are called to use our words to bring life, not destruction. This challenges us to be mindful of how we speak to and about others, ensuring that our speech reflects the love and grace of God.
Additionally, Paul tells us not to grieve the Holy Spirit. This means that our actions and attitudes should align with the Spirit’s work in our lives. When we choose bitterness, rage, anger, slander, and malice, we go against the Spirit’s leading. Instead, we are called to be kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving, just as God has forgiven us in Christ. This is one of the most powerful aspects of the Christian life—learning to forgive as we have been forgiven. Holding onto resentment only harms us, while choosing forgiveness brings freedom and healing.
At the heart of this chapter is the call to live out our faith in practical ways. Our salvation is not just about a personal relationship with God; it affects every aspect of our lives and relationships. We are not just individuals walking our own paths—we are part of a community, a body that functions best when we are united in love and truth. This challenges us to consider how we interact with one another, how we serve, and how we reflect Christ to the world.
Ephesians 4 reminds us that following Jesus is not just about believing the right things but about living them out. Unity, maturity, truth, love, renewal, and kindness should define our lives. This chapter encourages us to take an honest look at ourselves and ask whether our actions reflect the transformation Christ has brought into our lives. Are we walking in humility and patience? Are we contributing to unity in the body of Christ? Are we building others up with our words? Are we putting off our old selves and embracing the new life God has given us?
As we reflect on these questions, we are reminded that we do not walk this journey alone. The Spirit empowers us, Christ is our example, and we have one another to encourage and support along the way. Let us then strive to live in a way that honors our calling, reflecting the love, truth, and grace of our Savior in all that we do.