Unity in Diversity Part 2:
The Foundation of Our Calling
Ephesians 4:1-6
4 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
In the first article of our “Unity in Diversity” series, we explored the overarching theme of unity and the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ. As we continue, let’s go deeper into Ephesians 4:1-6, where the Apostle Paul lays down the foundational virtues necessary for maintaining this unity.
Upholding Our Spiritual Calling
Paul begins this passage with a compelling exhortation: “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called” (Ephesians 4:1, ESV). This calling is not just a general call to faith; it is a specific call to live out our faith with distinct characteristics that reflect Christ Himself. It is a call to embody humility, gentleness, and patience, and to bear with one another in love.
Illustration: Consider a team of engineers working on a complex bridge construction. Each engineer has a specific role, expertise, and responsibility. The success of the project relies not only on each individual’s skill but also on their ability to collaborate, communicate effectively, and support each other’s work. Similarly, in the church, our individual roles are vital, but the way we interact, support, and understand each other is what maintains the integrity of our collective mission.
Virtues That Bind
Humility: Recognizing that we are not the center of the universe. Humility allows us to see the value in others and acknowledges that all we have, including our gifts, comes from God.
Gentleness: Approaching others with care and respect, especially when disagreements arise or when we are in positions of authority.
Patience: Bearing with others through their faults, failures, and irritating habits, just as Christ bears with ours.
Love: The glue that holds all these virtues together. Love seeks the best for others and is the highest mark of a follower of Christ.
Maintaining Unity
Ephesians 4:3 emphasizes the effort required to maintain unity: “Eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” This unity is both a gift and a responsibility. It is a gift because it comes through the Holy Spirit who dwells within each believer, but it is also a responsibility because we must actively pursue and nurture it.
Reflection Questions:
In what ways can you grow in humility, gentleness, patience, and love to strengthen your contribution to the unity of your community?
How does recognizing these virtues as essential components of your calling change how you view your interactions within the church?
The One Body
Verses 4 to 6 of Ephesians 4 remind us that we are one body and one spirit, called to one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of all. These verses underscore the commonality and shared faith that bind us together, transcending individual differences.
As we reflect on the profound depth of our calling to walk in a manner worthy of it, let us commit to nurturing these virtues in our lives. They are not merely ideals to aspire to; they are practical, everyday practices that forge stronger bonds within the church.
In the next article, we will explore the specific gifts Christ gave to the church and how they equip us for service and build up the body of Christ. Join us as we continue to uncover the beauty and strength of unity in diversity.
