Walking Worthy and Growing in Unity

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Read This First

Ephesians is a letter from Paul to the church in Ephesus, emphasizing the spiritual blessings believers have in Christ and how to live in light of those blessings. The previous chapters focus on our identity in Christ and the unity believers share as God’s chosen people. Chapter 4 transitions to practical instructions on how to maintain that unity and grow spiritually. Knowing the cultural context of a diverse church facing external pressures helps us appreciate Paul’s call for humility, peace, and maturity in the body of Christ.

What You'll Learn

• How humility and patience preserve unity within the diverse body of Christ.
• The significance of one Spirit, one Lord, and one faith in maintaining church unity.
• The purpose of spiritual gifts given by Christ to equip and edify the church.
• Why Christian maturity involves growing in truth and love to resist false teachings.
• The contrast between former sinful living and the new life in righteousness and holiness.
• Practical commands for holy speech, anger management, and forgiveness within the Christian community.

Believers are called to walk worthy of their calling by maintaining unity, growing in maturity, and living holy lives empowered by Christ’s gifts.

Bible Translation Note: All Scripture on this page is quoted from the King James Version (KJV) and presented in full without alteration.

Ephesians 4:1 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,

Ephesians 4:2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;

Ephesians 4:3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Ephesians 4:4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;

Ephesians 4:5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism,

Ephesians 4:6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

Ephesians 4:7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

Ephesians 4:8 Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.

Ephesians 4:9 (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth?

Ephesians 4:10 He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)

Ephesians 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

Ephesians 4:12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

Ephesians 4:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

Ephesians 4:14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

Ephesians 4:15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:

Ephesians 4:16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

Ephesians 4:17 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,

Ephesians 4:18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:

Ephesians 4:19 Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.

Ephesians 4:20 But ye have not so learned Christ;

Ephesians 4:21 If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus:

Ephesians 4:22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;

Ephesians 4:23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;

Ephesians 4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

Ephesians 4:25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.

Ephesians 4:26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:

Ephesians 4:27 Neither give place to the devil.

Ephesians 4:28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.

Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

Ephesians 4:30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

Ephesians 4:31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:

Ephesians 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

Ephesians 4:1

I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,

Study: Paul, writing as a prisoner for Christ, appeals earnestly for believers to live in a way that reflects the high calling they have received. This 'vocation' refers to their salvation and new identity in Christ, highlighting that Christian life is a purposeful journey. The verse underscores personal responsibility in honoring God through conduct, reminding readers that their lifestyle should match the grace they have been given.

Ephesians 4:2

With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;

Study: Paul lists humility, meekness, patience, and love as the attitudes necessary to maintain unity among believers. These qualities counteract selfishness and pride, which often cause division. The phrase 'forbearing one another in love' reveals that love is the foundation for enduring others’ weaknesses, reflecting God’s patient love toward us.

Ephesians 4:3

Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Study: The effort to preserve the unity of the Spirit is described as a diligent endeavor, showing that unity is not automatic but requires intentional commitment. The 'bond of peace' illustrates that peace is the glue holding the church together, and this unity is a spiritual reality given by the Holy Spirit, emphasizing God’s role in sustaining the church’s harmony.

Ephesians 4:4

There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;

Study: Paul emphasizes the oneness of the church by listing one body, one Spirit, and one hope. This unity is rooted in the shared calling of believers, reminding readers that despite diversity, all Christians belong to the same spiritual family. The verse points to the theological truth that the church’s unity is grounded in God’s singular work through the Spirit.

Ephesians 4:5

One Lord, one faith, one baptism,

Study: The repetition of 'one' highlights the foundational truths that unify the church: one Lord (Jesus Christ), one faith (the gospel), and one baptism (the initiation into the body). This triad serves as a doctrinal anchor against divisions and false teachings, reinforcing the exclusive and unified nature of Christian belief.

Ephesians 4:6

One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

Study: God is presented as the sovereign Father who is above all, working through all, and dwelling in all believers. This verse reveals God’s omnipresence and intimate involvement with His people, encouraging believers that their unity is undergirded by the Father’s supreme authority and presence.

Ephesians 4:7

But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

Study: Grace is distributed to each believer according to Christ’s gift, showing that every Christian has a unique role and empowerment for service. This verse connects spiritual gifts directly to Christ’s generosity, reminding the church that their abilities come from Him to build up the body.

Ephesians 4:8

Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.

Study: Paul quotes Psalm 68 to explain Christ’s ascension as a victorious act where He led captivity captive and gave gifts to men. This victory over spiritual enemies justifies the distribution of gifts, linking Christ’s exaltation with the empowerment of the church for ministry.

Ephesians 4:9

(Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth?

Study: The mention of Christ’s descent into 'the lower parts of the earth' refers to His incarnation and possibly His death and burial, emphasizing His humility before His exaltation. This descent-ascension motif highlights the completeness of Christ’s work, from suffering to glory, which enables Him to fill all things.

Ephesians 4:10

He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)

Study: Christ’s ascension 'far above all heavens' signifies His supreme authority over all creation, fulfilling the purpose of His descent. The phrase 'that he might fill all things' indicates His role in sustaining and filling the universe, assuring believers of His power and presence in the church.

Ephesians 4:11

And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

Study: Christ gave specific roles—apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers—to equip the church. These offices reflect the diverse ways God builds His kingdom, each contributing uniquely to the church’s foundation and growth, underscoring the importance of leadership and teaching in the body.

Ephesians 4:12

For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

Study: The purpose of these gifts is threefold: perfecting the saints, ministering, and edifying the body. This verse reveals that spiritual gifts are not for personal gain but for preparing believers for service and strengthening the church, highlighting the communal and functional nature of God’s gifts.

Ephesians 4:13

Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

Study: The goal of unity in faith and knowledge of the Son is maturity, described as reaching the full stature of Christ. This maturity involves growing in understanding and character, reflecting the New Covenant promise of transformation into Christlikeness, which stabilizes the church against false teachings.

Ephesians 4:14

That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

Study: Paul warns against remaining spiritually immature, which leaves believers vulnerable to deception. The imagery of being 'tossed to and fro' by false doctrines stresses the necessity of growth in truth to maintain stability and discernment within the church.

Ephesians 4:15

But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:

Study: Speaking the truth in love balances honesty with grace, promoting growth into Christ, the head of the church. This verse teaches that maturity involves both doctrinal integrity and loving relationships, reflecting Christ’s character as the source of life and unity.

Ephesians 4:16

From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

Study: The body metaphor illustrates how every believer is connected and contributes to the church’s growth. Each part supplies what is needed, working effectively to build itself up in love, emphasizing interdependence and the Spirit’s work through believers for mutual edification.

Ephesians 4:17

This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,

Study: Paul contrasts the Christian walk with the Gentile way, characterized by vanity of mind. This highlights the transformation expected in believers, who are called to reject worldly thinking and live according to God’s truth, reflecting the new identity in Christ.

Ephesians 4:18

Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:

Study: The darkened understanding and alienation from God describe the spiritual condition before salvation. This verse explains the root of Gentile sinfulness as ignorance and hardness of heart, underscoring the necessity of the gospel to restore life and knowledge of God.

Ephesians 4:19

Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.

Study: The description of past sinful behavior—senselessness, greed, and uncleanness—shows the depth of moral corruption without Christ. This stark contrast prepares readers to appreciate the radical change brought by learning Christ’s truth.

Ephesians 4:20

But ye have not so learned Christ;

Study: Paul reminds believers that their former way of life is incompatible with the teaching of Christ. This verse calls for a conscious break from past sins, emphasizing that Christian identity is shaped by what has been learned from Jesus.

Ephesians 4:21

If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus:

Study: Hearing and being taught by Christ as the truth establishes the foundation for transformation. This verse highlights the importance of ongoing instruction in Jesus’ teachings as the source of genuine spiritual renewal.

Ephesians 4:22

That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;

Study: Believers are instructed to 'put off' the old self, which is corrupted by deceitful desires. This language of changing clothes symbolizes a decisive break from former sinful habits, reflecting the covenant call to holiness.

Ephesians 4:23

And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;

Study: Renewal of the mind’s spirit is an ongoing process that enables believers to live according to God’s will. This renewal contrasts with the previous darkened understanding and is essential for spiritual growth and obedience.

Ephesians 4:24

And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

Study: Putting on the new self created in righteousness and holiness reflects the new covenant identity shaped by God’s character. This verse emphasizes that true Christian living is marked by moral purity and alignment with God’s nature.

Ephesians 4:25

Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.

Study: Truthful speech is commanded because believers are interconnected as members of one body. Honesty fosters trust and unity, reflecting God’s character and the covenant community’s need for integrity.

Ephesians 4:26

Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:

Study: Paul acknowledges that anger is natural but warns against sinning in anger or letting it persist. This teaching protects relationships within the church and prevents the devil from gaining a foothold through unresolved conflict.

Ephesians 4:27

Neither give place to the devil.

Study: Not giving place to the devil means believers must actively resist temptation and avoid behaviors that allow Satan to influence their lives. This verse highlights spiritual warfare’s practical aspect in daily conduct.

Ephesians 4:28

Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.

Study: The command to stop stealing and work honestly promotes responsibility and generosity. This practical instruction aligns with the new life in Christ, encouraging believers to contribute positively to their community and help those in need.

Ephesians 4:29

Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

Study: Speech must be wholesome and edifying, ministering grace to listeners. This verse teaches that words have spiritual power to build up or tear down, encouraging believers to use their speech to reflect God’s grace.

Ephesians 4:30

And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

Study: Grieving the Holy Spirit refers to actions that hinder His work in believers’ lives. Being sealed by the Spirit guarantees future redemption, so believers are called to live in a way that honors this divine presence and promise.

Ephesians 4:31

Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:

Study: Paul lists attitudes and behaviors to be removed from the Christian community, emphasizing the need for holiness and love. Bitterness, wrath, and malice disrupt unity and grieve the Spirit, showing the serious impact of sin on the church.

Ephesians 4:32

And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

Study: Kindness, tenderheartedness, and forgiveness are commanded as reflections of God’s forgiveness through Christ. This verse encapsulates the new covenant ethic of love that sustains the church and mirrors God’s grace toward sinners.

Ephesians 4 calls believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling by embracing unity, humility, and love. Paul explains that Christ has given diverse spiritual gifts to equip the church for growth and maturity, enabling believers to resist false teachings and live holy lives. The chapter contrasts the old sinful way with the new life in righteousness, emphasizing practical commands for speech, anger, and forgiveness. This passage reveals how the Spirit works through the body of Christ to build a unified, mature community reflecting God’s holiness.

Lord, help us to walk worthy of the calling You have given us by cultivating humility, patience, and love. Teach us to use the gifts You have entrusted to us for the building up of Your church. Renew our minds and hearts so we may grow in unity and maturity, speaking truth in love and living holy lives that honor You. Guard us from deception and empower us to forgive as You have forgiven us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

• Pray daily for humility and patience in your interactions with others.
• Read Ephesians 4 aloud each day to internalize its call to unity and maturity.
• Journal about the spiritual gifts you have and how you can use them to serve your church.
• Memorize Ephesians 4:1 to remind yourself to walk worthy of your calling.
• Reflect on any old habits you need to put off and ask God for renewal.
• Make a list of people you need to forgive and pray for a forgiving heart.
• Speak encouraging and truthful words to at least one person each day.

Ephesians 4 challenges believers to live out their calling by fostering unity through humility and love, using Christ-given gifts to build the church, and growing into spiritual maturity. It contrasts the old sinful life with the new life in holiness, providing practical guidance for speech, anger, and forgiveness. This chapter reveals the Spirit’s work in creating a unified, mature body that reflects Christ’s character and advances God’s kingdom.

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