Ephesians 4:1 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that you walk worthy of the vocation with which you are called, I. THE PRIVILEGE DECLARED. Their "vocation," i.e., calling. Men have callings in the world — their business, profession, temporal office. The apostle speaks of "the calling of God." There are different callings spoken of. There is — 1. An external calling — the invitation to gospel privileges. 2. An official calling — the appointment to administration in the Church. 3. An internal and effectual calling by the Spirit of God. This is (1) an enlightening calling. (2) A sanctifying calling. (3) A uniting calling. It binds to (a) Christ (1 Corinthians 1:9). (b) The Church (Ephesians 4:4; Ephesians 1:18-22). (4) A saving calling (1 Thessalonians 2:12). II. THE DUTY URGED. How can anyone walk "worthy"? It means suitably, in a manner somewhat becoming those who enjoy such privileges. As if the apostle would say: Have you — 1. A call to knowledge? Walk wisely. 2. A call to holiness? Walk unblameably. 3. A call to fellowship? Walk lovingly. 4. A call to glory? Walk happily.Conclusion: These things — 1. Should put us on examination. 2. Should move us to diligence. (H. Parr.) Parallel Verses KJV: I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, |
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