Ephesians 4:1–3
As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. The apostle Paul wrote his letter to the Ephesians, which taught on church unity and behavioral issues, while he was imprisoned in Rome. Dissension in the church is harmful not only for the church, but also the wider culture, where unbelievers often revel in accusing the church of hypocrisy and judgment.
Earlier chapters in Ephesians teach on salvation and the merits of Christ, but in Ephesians 4, Paul writes that salvation leads us to a spirit of love and unity. Our ultimate purpose here on earth is to reflect Christ and preserve unity to strengthen the power and witness of the church.
Unity does not mean we must compromise concerning false doctrine, Scripture or important traditions. Unity and the spirit of peace simply mean having a humble and teachable spirit. Unfortunately, some churches and pastoral leaders today often cite this verse to capitulate to or appease culture rather than uplift what Christ, Scripture and the church teaches.
Anybody who has been a part of a church or served in leadership knows that church division is toxic and paralyzing. Unfortunately, some attendees and members possess a spirit of division and work hard to destroy God’s instrument for deliverance, peace and love in the world.
It’s for good reason that the New Testament writers spend a lot of time writing about the importance of unity. Paul writes in Titus 3 to warn conflict agitators in the church, warn them again if necessary, but remove them from the body if their spirit of disunity continues. It’s that important.
Sadly, so many churches and Christian organizations don’t live up to their potential because of the lack of a united spirit. Ultimately, only Christ can give us that spirit of unity and equip us with the gifts required to grow in grace and flourish.
Finally, some casual readers might read this passage and be inclined to think Paul is bragging or boasting about his imprisonment. Rather, he is reminding his audience of his chains to reinforce the spirit of humility. Moreover, while Paul was imprisoned by the Roman authorities, he believed his imprisonment was for the sake of the Gospel and Jesus Christ. It’s a beautiful reminder to all of us that it is more important to be made low and humble for the sake of the Gospel than to advance ourselves at the expense of others, especially over the ministry of Christ and his church.
