JULY 16, 2024
“I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love.” (Ephesians 4:1-2)
Chapter 4 describes believers’ unity and the new hope Christians have in Jesus. Verse 1 reminds readers of Paul’s current condition, living under house arrest in Rome for two years. Paul also encourages believers to live lives that honor God’s gift of grace. Paul offered similar words to the Philippians and Thessalonians. Believers have been called to follow Christ Jesus. Therefore, believers should live like Christ Jesus. He pleads with us to walk worthy of our calling. We need to live as those called into the kingdom of God. The word “walk” is often used to denote living, conduct, etc.
Living in a manner worthy of Christ’s calling includes four traits described in this verse. First and foremost, the Ephesians -and all Christians- are to live in humility. This is not just a suggestion, but a fundamental aspect of our Christian journey. Christ called others to live with the humility of a child and taught that those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Jesus was born in a humble manger, grew up in humble surroundings, lived a humble life, yet had a tremendous impact. Christ’s followers are to likewise operate in humility.
Second, believers are to live with gentleness. Gentleness is part of the fruit of the Spirit and is essential in every believer’s life. This trait not only helps to avoid unnecessary conflict but also demonstrates the love we are always meant to display.
Third, believers are to exhibit patience. Patience is not just a virtue, but a necessity if we are to show love to others. It’s another part of the fruit of the Spirit and a key component of our Christian life. Elsewhere, Paul reminds believers that love is patient. This underscores the importance of patience in our Christian journey.
Fourth, believers are to live with love toward one another. Paul has mentioned this in Ephesians and other letters, especially in 1 Corinthians 13 where the ‘greatest of [God’s gifts] is love.’ Particularly as it is used in the New Testament, ‘love’ is not merely a feeling or an emotion. It’s a call to action, to take actions that benefit others. A feeling that doesn’t result in action is not biblical love. This underscores the need for us to actively show love to others in our Christian journey.
Paul often spoke of Christians as “together,” as a body is one unit of separate members. This unity ought to also take place in the bond of peace. Peace is another theme that Paul mentions multiple times in this letter. Christ is our peace. He made peace, preached peace, and offered a Gospel of peace. Peace is part of the fruit of the Spirit and essential for every believer.
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