Ephesians 4 - Printer Friendly

What does Ephesians 4 mean?

Chapter Commentary:

Chapter 4 describes both the unity of believers and the new hope which Christians have in Jesus. The passage begins with Paul's mention of his imprisonment and his focus on Christian unity (Ephesians 4:1–16). There, he appeals to Christians to live in a way which reflects the grace we've been given by God. The second part of this passage develops the concept of the new life believers have in Jesus (Ephesians 4:17–32). Paul begins to assign specific actions and attitudes to the "new self" all believers ought to take on.

The first part of the chapter (Ephesians 4:1–6) begins a new section in which Paul urges his readers to live according to the calling they have received as believers (Ephesians 4:1). This includes humility, gentleness, patience, and love (Ephesians 4:2). Unity and peace were essential (Ephesians 4:3), with Paul noting the importance of one Spirit, hope, Lord, faith, baptism, God, and Father of all (Ephesians 4:5–6). Grace is given to each as Christ desires (Ephesians 4:7).

Paul then quotes from Psalm 68:18 (Ephesians 4:8) as the basis for his next teaching. He contrasts ascending and descending, referring most likely to Christ coming from heaven to earth. However, some have understood this as Christ descending "below" the earth in some type of activity during the three days between His death and resurrection. Verse 11 begins an importance discussion of church leaders. Paul includes apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. Some interpreters believe that pastor–teacher is a single category. These leaders have one main purpose: to equip believers for the work of ministry (Ephesians 4:12). This work builds up the church, and increases unity, knowledge, and maturity (Ephesians 4:12–13). So, not only are spiritual gifts blessings, but those whom God has raised up to lead the church are gifts in their own way, as well.

Maturity is important because it keeps believers from being "up and down" in their walk with God. It also helps us avoid being deceived by false teachings (Ephesians 4:14). Instead, mature believers can speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), focusing on Christ who keeps the body of Christ together (Ephesians 4:16).

The second part of this chapter (Ephesians 4:17–32) focuses on the new life believers have in Christ. Believers are to no longer live sinfully "as the Gentiles do" (Ephesians 4:17). In this context, Paul is using the term "Gentiles" to refer to those who do not have a saving knowledge of Christ. Non-believers lack understanding and are separated by God due to a hardness of heart (Ephesians 4:18). They are calloused to sin (Ephesians 4:19). Believers must not be known for this way of life (Ephesians 4:20–21). Instead, believers put off this "old self" and set their minds on spiritual things (Ephesians 4:23), putting on the "new self" of godly living (Ephesians 4:24).

As part of this "new self," each believer is called to speak truth to "his neighbor" since we are family (Ephesians 4:25). We are not to sin when angry (Ephesians 4:26), not giving the Devil an opportunity or advantage in our lives (Ephesians 4:27). Believers are to work honestly (Ephesians 4:28), speak encouragement (Ephesians 4:29), and not grieve the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30). Believers are called to put away sinful practices and attitudes (Ephesians 4:31), being kind to one another and forgiving, as Christ has forgiven us (Ephesians 4:32).

Ephesians 4:1–10 is Paul's compelling description of Christian unity. Every saved believer, regardless of talent or skill, Jew or Gentile, male or female, is saved by the same faith in the same God. Each Christian, therefore, is part of a single, universal family of believers in Jesus Christ. At the same time, God gives different gifts to different people, so that they can serve the many roles needed to accomplish His purposes here on earth. Rather than being concerned about what gifts we might lack, each Christian can rejoice in our unity, and focus on serving God to the best of our ability.

Ephesians 4:11–16 discusses both the gift of spiritual leaders and the importance of mature, loving, unified Christianity. Some people are endowed with gifts of teaching, preaching, and so forth. It is crucial to the health of Christian congregations that these members use their God-given talents appropriately. At the same time, different members of a church have different abilities. The community of believers functions best when all of those individual pieces are working together, through their unique roles. A healthy church is far more powerful than a ''big'' church.

Ephesians 4:17–32 is a valuable, highly practical explanation of how to live out a Christian life. Paul notes the difference between a life wallowing under the power of sin, as opposed to a life thriving in the power of Christ. Christians are called on to ''put away'' the things which entangle unbelievers. This includes sins such as malice, slander, commotion, and bitterness. Instead, we should demonstrate a Christ-like attitude of love and forgiveness.

Chapter Summary:

Truly understanding saving grace, as Paul explained in prior chapters, is the Christian's first motivation for living a godly life. Here, Paul encourages believers to live in way which honors that gift. All saved Christians are part of a single, unified family, part of the ''body'' of Christ. At the same time, different believers are given different talents. Some are called to positions of leadership and authority. All Christians should turn away from the ''old self'' we were prior to being saved. Paul's explanation of the ''new self'' includes some basic, practical steps.

Chapter Context:

The first half of Ephesians focuses mostly on doctrine, setting up ideas related to the Christian faith. The last half, beginning in chapter 4, puts those theories into practice. Paul begins by emphasizing the ultimate unity of all Christians, regardless of individual spiritual gifts. Paul also begins to explain how knowledge of the truths should translate into action. Chapters 4, 5, and 6 feature specific, real-world applications of Christianity to daily life.

Ephesians follows a theme common in Paul's writings: connecting theory with practice. In this book, however, he goes into greater depth before making the transition. As a letter meant to be read by more than just the believers at Ephesus, this is an important look at how Christian belief should translate into Christian action. The first three chapters lay out spiritual ideas, the last three chapters show how these truths should be applied in the life of a mature believer. Paul focuses heavily on love, the unity of the Christian church, and the incredible value of our salvation through Christ.

Accessed 12/21/2024 11:43:23 AM