THE UNITY OF FAITH
key verse: 3
Here, Paul highlights the unity of faith. In the church, different types of people were mixed: on one hand, people of pagan origin; on the other, Judeo-Christians. Because of their different backgrounds, it was hard for them to form one body. This is why Paul emphasizes unity.
1. Maintain the unity of the Spirit (1-3)
Paul calls himself a prisoner for the Lord. He didn't have liberty in Jesus, for he had been bought by Jesus' blood. Now, he is the property of Jesus. Paul exhorted the Ephesians to walk in a manner worthy of their calling. If we have been bought by Jesus' blood, though we were unforgiveable sinners, we must from now on live according to the grace that has been given us. Despite the present hardships of our mission, we must rejoice like Paul as he did in the remaining suffering of Christ.To this end, we must be humble, gentle, patient and loving in order to build up the church and spread the Gospel. We must have the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
2. The uniqueness of the object of belief (4-7)
Physically, we have one body, just as we have one Spirit. After being born again, we have one hope. At the time of this birth, we obtained a new hope and a holy calling. We did not choose God, but God chose us so that we would go and bear fruit. Moreover, the God in whom we believe and the Lord in whom we trust are one and our faith is also one and unique for all without distinction of background. It is only the measure of grace that differs from one to another. Everyone must accept this measure of grace without comparing himself to others or causing discontent.
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