Ephesians 4:3 – “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Extended Explanation
This verse is a clear call for believers to actively work toward unity in the church. Paul doesn’t just suggest unity—he commands believers to “make every effort” to maintain it. This means unity is not automatic; it requires intentionality, commitment, and effort.
Paul specifies that this unity comes from the Holy Spirit. It is not something we create but something we are called to protect and nurture. Christians do not achieve unity through compromise or human strategies but by following the Spirit’s leading.
The phrase “the bond of peace” suggests that peace is what holds believers together. True Christian unity does not come from avoiding conflict but from choosing peace in the midst of differences. This peace is rooted in our shared relationship with Christ, not in agreeing on every issue.
Historical Context
Paul wrote Ephesians while imprisoned, likely in Rome around A.D. 60–62. The church in Ephesus was made up of both Jewish and Gentile believers, and there were tensions between these groups. Many Jewish believers struggled with the idea that Gentiles could be part of God’s family without following the Jewish law. Gentiles, on the other hand, came from pagan backgrounds and had to learn what it meant to follow Christ.
These cultural differences could have easily led to division, but Paul insists that unity must be protected. He had already explained in Ephesians 2:14–16 that Christ had torn down the “dividing wall of hostility” between Jews and Gentiles. Now he calls them to live out that unity in practical ways.
The early church also faced external persecution. A divided church would have been weak, but a united church could stand strong. That is why Paul urges believers to work diligently to maintain unity.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that unity is not based on human effort but on the work of the Holy Spirit. However, believers have a responsibility to maintain that unity by walking in obedience to God.
Paul’s words also show that peace is a key characteristic of the Christian life. Jesus Himself is called the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6), and He calls His followers to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9). Unity and peace go hand in hand. A church that is full of division and strife is not reflecting God’s will.
Additionally, this verse reminds us that unity does not mean uniformity. The body of Christ is diverse, with different gifts, backgrounds, and personalities. But despite those differences, believers are called to be one in Christ.
Literary Analysis
Ephesians 4:3 is part of Paul’s larger argument about living in a way that reflects our calling as followers of Christ. Verses 1–2 focus on the personal qualities needed for unity (humility, gentleness, patience, and love). Verse 3 then emphasizes the practical action needed to maintain unity.
The phrase “make every effort” is strong in the original Greek, carrying the idea of diligence, eagerness, and urgency. Paul is saying that unity is worth working hard for—it won’t just happen on its own.
The word “bond” suggests that peace is like a glue that holds believers together. Without it, relationships in the church will fall apart.
Biblical Cross-References
- Romans 12:18 – “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
- Colossians 3:14–15 – “And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace.”
- John 17:20–23 – Jesus prays for His followers to be united so that the world may know that He was sent by the Father.
- 1 Corinthians 1:10 – “I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
In a world full of division—politically, socially, and even within churches—this verse is a powerful reminder that Christians are called to unity. This does not mean ignoring truth or avoiding difficult conversations, but it does mean pursuing peace and choosing love over conflict.
Churches today often struggle with disagreements over doctrine, worship styles, leadership decisions, and personal preferences. Paul’s words remind us that unity in Christ is more important than winning arguments or getting our way.
This verse also applies to personal relationships. Maintaining peace within our families, workplaces, and friendships requires effort. When we seek unity through the Holy Spirit, we reflect God’s love to those around us.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God is a God of unity, not division. From the beginning, His desire has been for His people to be united with Him and with one another. When sin entered the world, division and conflict followed. But God, in His love, made a way to restore unity through Jesus Christ.
This verse shows that God’s love is not just about individual salvation but about bringing His people together. His love binds us together as one family. When we work to maintain unity, we are living in the reality of His love.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the foundation of Christian unity. Paul had already written in Ephesians 2:14 that Jesus “himself is our peace.” Through His death on the cross, He removed the barriers that separate people from God and from each other.
- Jesus prayed for unity – In John 17:21, He prayed that His followers “may be one” just as He and the Father are one.
- Jesus made peace through the cross – Colossians 1:20 says that Jesus reconciled all things to Himself “by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.”
- Jesus calls His followers to unity – In Matthew 5:9, He says, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
Because of Jesus, unity is possible. But as Paul reminds us, we must make every effort to maintain it.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- In what ways can you “make every effort” to maintain unity in your church, family, or community?
- Why do you think Paul connects unity with the Holy Spirit?
- What are some common obstacles to unity among Christians today?
- How does peace serve as a “bond” that holds believers together?
- How can looking at Jesus’ example help you pursue peace and unity in your own life?