Introduction

Ephesians 4 shifts from the doctrinal exposition of the first three chapters to practical exhortations on Christian living. Paul emphasizes unity in the body of Christ, the diversity of spiritual gifts, and the ethical conduct expected of believers. This chapter provides a blueprint for living out the Christian faith in a manner worthy of the calling believers have received.

Unity in the Body of Christ

A Call to Unity

Paul urges the Ephesian believers to live a life worthy of their calling, characterized by humility, gentleness, patience, and bearing with one another in love (Ephesians 4:1-2). These virtues are essential for maintaining unity within the body of Christ.

The Basis of Unity

Paul stresses the importance of unity, highlighting that there is one body and one Spirit, just as believers were called to one hope when they were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all (Ephesians 4:4-6). This sevenfold declaration underscores the theological foundation for unity among believers.

Diversity of Gifts

Christ’s Gifts to the Church

Paul explains that Christ has given gifts to His people, quoting Psalm 68:18 to illustrate that He ascended on high, leading captives in His train and giving gifts to men (Ephesians 4:7-8). This signifies Christ’s victory and His provision for the church.

The Purpose of the Gifts

Paul lists the various roles given to the church: apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. These roles are meant to equip the saints for the work of ministry and to build up the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:11-12). The ultimate goal is to attain unity in the faith and knowledge of the Son of God, reaching maturity and the fullness of Christ (Ephesians 4:13).

Growth and Maturity

Paul emphasizes the need for growth and maturity in the body of Christ, cautioning against being tossed back and forth by the waves and blown here and there by every wind of teaching (Ephesians 4:14). Instead, believers are to speak the truth in love and grow up in every way into Christ, who is the head of the church (Ephesians 4:15). The body grows and builds itself up in love as each part does its work (Ephesians 4:16).

The New Life in Christ

A Call to Holiness

Paul exhorts the Ephesians to no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking, darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of their ignorance and hard hearts (Ephesians 4:17-18). This describes a life disconnected from God, characterized by moral and spiritual ignorance.

Putting Off the Old Self

Paul calls believers to put off their old self, which is corrupted by deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of their minds, putting on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:22-24). This renewal involves a complete transformation of character and conduct.

Practical Instructions for Godly Living

Paul provides practical instructions for living out the new life in Christ:

• Truthfulness: Speak truthfully to one another, for we are all members of one body (Ephesians 4:25).
• Anger Management: In your anger, do not sin; do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold (Ephesians 4:26-27).
• Honesty: Those who have 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 (Ephesians 4:28).
• Edifying Speech: Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs (Ephesians 4:29).
• Kindness and Forgiveness: Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you (Ephesians 4:32).

Conclusion: Significance and Relevance

Connection to Jesus Christ

Ephesians 4 is deeply connected to Jesus Christ as it portrays Him as the head of the church, the giver of spiritual gifts, and the standard for Christian maturity. The emphasis on growing up into Christ and living a life worthy of the calling reflects the centrality of Christ in the believer’s life.

God’s Love for the World

This chapter demonstrates God’s love by highlighting His provision for the church through spiritual gifts and the call to live in unity and holiness. The transformation of believers into the likeness of Christ and their ethical conduct reflect God’s desire for a holy and loving community.

Contemporary Relevance

Ephesians 4 remains profoundly relevant today as it addresses the practical aspects of Christian living within the church and the broader society. It challenges believers to strive for unity, utilize their spiritual gifts for the common good, and live out their faith in tangible ways that reflect their new identity in Christ.

Through its emphasis on unity, maturity, and ethical conduct, Ephesians 4 provides a comprehensive guide for believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling, fostering a community that glorifies God and serves as a witness to the transformative power of the gospel.