Letter to the Ephesians – Chapter 4
Ephesians 4 transitions from theological exposition (chapters 1–3) to practical application, urging believers to live lives worthy of their calling. Drawing heavily on the relational and communal nature of the Christian faith, it emphasizes unity in the Church, the diversity of spiritual gifts, and the transformation of believers into the likeness of Christ.
Verses 1–6: Unity in the Body of Christ
Paul begins with an exhortation: “I urge you to walk in a manner worthy (axios) of the calling to which you have been called” (v. 1). This term conveys a sense of balance or equivalence. To walk “worthy” of the calling means living in a way that matches the grace received. This “calling” refers to God’s gracious initiative in salvation and the believer’s identity in Christ. Paul further emphasizes virtues essential for maintaining unity—humility, gentleness, patience, and love (v. 2). The emphases on unity (henotēs) is is about oneness, not uniformity. It is the work of the Spirit, and the responsibility of the Church (vv. 3–6).
Verses 7–16: Diversity of Gifts and the Goal of Maturity
Spirit-enabled unity produces diversity of gifts. These gifts are expressions of divine grace (charis), not human merit. Each believer receives grace according to Christ’s measure (v. 7). Citing Psalm 68:18, Paul portrays Christ as a victorious king distributing gifts (charismata) to His people (v. 8). These gifts include apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers (v. 11), given to equip the saints and build up the body of Christ. The ultimate goal is maturity (teleios, meaning completeness or perfection) and unity in faith and knowledge of Christ (v. 13).
Verses 17–24: The Old Self vs. New Self
Paul urges believers to “put off” their “old self” (palaios anthrōpos) or former way of life, characterized by darkened understanding and hardened hearts (vv. 17–19). The call to “put off” reflects a decisive break with this identity. Instead, they are to be renewed in the spirit of their minds (v. 23) and to “put on the new self” (kainos anthrōpos), that is a new creation that is not merely a better version of the old but a completely transformed identity in Christ (v. 24). For Gentile converts, this imagery would have been particularly striking, as they left behind pagan practices and embraced a radically new way of life.
Verses 25–32: Practical Exhortations for Holiness
Paul concludes with practical instructions for living as the new self. These include speaking truthfully (v. 25), avoiding sinful anger (v. 26), working honestly (v. 28), and using words to build others up (v. 29). Believers are warned not to grieve (lupeō, meaning to cause sorrow or pain) the Holy Spirit and are called to kindness, compassion, and forgiveness, modeled after God’s forgiveness in Christ (v. 32). The implication is that true holiness is lived out in relationships, work, and speech that reflect God’s character.
General Discussion Questions
Use any or all of the following questions, depending how much time you have:
How familiar were you with this week’s reading? Was there anything that surprised you?
What did you learn about God and/or human nature from the reading?
What aspects of the reading give you comfort or assurance? What aspects of the reading do you find difficult to accept?
Which verses stood out to you as significant in this chapter?
Discussion Questions
Verses 2 and 3 say: “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.” How can being humble help us to create unity? What about being gentle? Patient?
Verse 15 and 16 talk about the body of Christ with Jesus as the head, and us as the body “as each part does its work.” What is a gift that God has given you, or maybe just something that you are good at, and how could that be beneficial to serving your family, church, or community?
Paul closes the chapter by telling us to forgive one another, just as in Christ God forgave us. Forgiveness is hard…perhaps one of the hardest things that God calls us to do. Why is it important to remember that God forgave us when we think about forgiving others?
In 4:29, Paul instructs believers to speak only what is helpful for building others up, “as there is need.” Reflect on your daily conversations—whether at work, home, or online. Where in your life is there need for you to intentionally use your words to encourage others and avoid negativity or gossip?
Closing Prayer
O Lord, we give you our lives. May our heart, our minds, and our desires be yours. May our hands and feet and voices move as you would choose. May our moments and days flow in endless praise. Amen.