◄ Ephesians 4 ►
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Unity in the Body (Psalm 133:1–3; 1 Corinthians 1:10–17) 1As a prisoner in the Lord, then, I urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received: 2with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3and with diligence to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; 5one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. 7Now to each one of us grace has been given according to the measure of the gift of Christ. 8This is why it says:a “When He ascended on high, He led captives away, and gave gifts to men.”b 9What does “He ascended” mean, except that He also descendedc to the lower parts of the earth? 10He who descended is the very One who ascended above all the heavens, in order to fill all things. 11And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, 12to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ, 13until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, as we mature to the full measure of the stature of Christ. 14Then we will no longer be infants, tossed about by the waves and carried around by every wind of teaching and by the clever cunning of men in their deceitful scheming. 15Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ Himself, who is the head. 16From Him the whole body, fitted and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love through the work of each individual part. New Life in Christ (Colossians 3:1–17) 17So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. 18They are darkened in their understanding and alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardness of their hearts. 19Having lost all sense of shame, they have given themselves over to sensuality for the practice of every kind of impurity, with a craving for more. 20But this is not the way you came to know Christ. 21Surely you heard of Him and were taught in Him—in keeping with the truth that is in Jesus— 22to put off your former way of life, your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23to be renewed in the spirit of your minds; 24and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. 25Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one another. 26“Be angry, yet do not sin.”d Do not let the sun set upon your anger, 27and do not give the devil a foothold. 28He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing good with his own hands, that he may have something to share with the one in need. 29Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen. 30And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, in whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice. 32Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you. Footnotes: 8 a Or He says 8 b Psalm 68:18 9 c BYZ and TR except that He also descended first 26 d Or “In your anger do not sin.” Psalm 4:4 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ephesians 4 Summary New Life in Christ Verses 1–6 – Walk Worthy in Unity Paul, writing from prison, urges believers to live up to their calling by showing humility, gentleness, patience, and loving endurance. He centers everything on “one body, one Spirit… one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all.” Verses 7–10 – Gifts from the Ascended Christ Grace is measured out to each believer, and Christ, after descending to the lower parts of the earth and then ascending far above the heavens, distributes gifts to His people. Verses 11–16 – Leaders Who Equip the Body Christ appoints apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers to equip the saints, build up the church, and lead everyone toward unity, maturity, and Christ-likeness, so that the body grows in love. Verses 17–24 – Put Off the Old, Put On the New Believers must abandon their former way of life, marked by futility and darkened thinking, and “put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” Verses 25–32 – Everyday Life in the New Self Truth replaces lies, righteous anger replaces sinful rage, honest labor replaces theft, wholesome words replace corruption, kindness replaces bitterness, and forgiveness mirrors God’s forgiveness in Christ. Ephesians 4 is a powerful chapter outlining the principles of unity, growth, and transformation in the Christian life. This chapter shifts from the doctrinal truths established in the earlier chapters to the practical implications of these truths, emphasizing the need for a worthy walk, unity, maturity, and renewed living. Authorship and Setting Paul identifies himself as “the prisoner of the Lord” (v. 1). The letter’s style, theology, and personal touches fit his ministry around A.D. 60–62, likely during his Roman house arrest (Acts 28:16, 30–31). Ephesus was a commercial hub, famous for its temple of Artemis; believers lived amid pressure from idolatry, magic, and social unrest (Acts 19:23-41). Unity of the Spirit Verses 3–6 echo Jesus’ prayer “that they may all be one” (John 17:21). The sevenfold “one” underscores a complete, Spirit-created unity not based on culture or status. The call to “maintain” unity means guarding what God already forged (1 Corinthians 12:13). Traits of a Worthy Walk • Humility—valuing others above self (Philippians 2:3–4) • Gentleness—strength under control, like Jesus (Matthew 11:29) • Patience—bearing long without quitting (Colossians 3:12) • Love—binding everything together (Colossians 3:14) Spiritual Gifts and Ministry Roles (vv. 7–11) Every believer receives grace, yet roles differ: • Apostles—pioneers who lay foundations (Acts 14:21-23) • Prophets—Spirit-prompted speakers who build up (1 Corinthians 14:3) • Evangelists—gospel messengers (Acts 21:8) • Pastors and Teachers—shepherds who feed and guard (1 Peter 5:2). All serve so the “saints”—not just leaders—do the work of ministry. Descent and Ascent (vv. 8-10) Paul links Psalm 68:18 to Christ. “He descended” points either to His incarnation and death or His proclamation of victory to the imprisoned spirits (1 Peter 3:19). His ascent secures authority over every realm (Philippians 2:9-11). Growth into Maturity (vv. 12-16) The goal is a church no longer tossed by “every wind of teaching.” Truth spoken in love guards against false ideas (Acts 20:29-30). Each part contributes, like joints and ligaments, so the body builds itself in love. Old vs. New Self (vv. 17-24) The “old self” is darkened, ignorant, hardened, given to sensuality, and greedy for more impurity. The “new self” mirrors God’s righteousness. Romans 6:6 and Colossians 3:9-10 echo the same clothing change: strip off the old, dress in the new. Practical Holiness (vv. 25-32) • Speak truth—Zechariah 8:16 foretold honest community. • Handle anger quickly—Psalm 4:4 teaches calm reflection. • Work with hands—Acts 20:34 shows Paul’s own example. • Use words to build—Proverbs 12:18 contrasts reckless and healing speech. • Do not grieve the Spirit—Isaiah 63:10 warns of rebellion. • Be kind and forgiving—patterned on God’s forgiveness (Matthew 6:14-15). Archaeological Glimpses of First-Century Ephesus Streets paved with marble, guild halls, and the 25,000-seat theater reveal a city of influence and distraction. Inscriptions mention Artemis worshipers and imperial cult altars. Against this backdrop, Paul’s call for pure speech and honest work challenged Christians tempted to blend in. Key Greek Words • axios (“worthy”)—balanced scales; lifestyle must equal calling. • katartismos (“equipping”)—mending nets; leaders restore believers so they can fish for people (Matthew 4:19). • apalgeō (“become callous,” v. 19)—thick-skinned to sin. • psuchros (“corrupt,” v. 29)—rotten produce; unwholesome talk spoils fellowship. Cross-References • Unity: 1 Corinthians 1:10; Psalm 133:1 • Gifts: 1 Corinthians 12; Romans 12:3-8; 1 Peter 4:10-11 • New life: Romans 13:12-14; Galatians 5:24-25 • Holy speech: Proverbs 15:4; Colossians 4:6 • Forgiveness: Matthew 18:21-35; Luke 23:34 Modern Application The passage pushes every believer to shift from consumer to contributor. In a polarized world, unity anchored in “one Lord” overpowers lesser loyalties. Social media amplifies corrupt speech; verse 29 calls for posts that nourish. Workplace ethics anchored in verse 28 honor Christ before watching colleagues. And as bitterness rises in culture, verse 32’s kindness and forgiveness remain the church’s brightest witness. Connections to Additional Scriptures Unity Psalm 133:1 - How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony! Spiritual Gifts 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 - There are different gifts, but the same Spirit. Maturity Hebrews 5:14 - But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained their senses to distinguish good from evil. New Life 2 Corinthians 5:17 - Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come! Teaching Points Unity in the Body of Christ Paul emphasizes the importance of unity, urging believers to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received (Ephesians 4:1). He highlights virtues such as humility, gentleness, and patience, which are essential for maintaining unity (Ephesians 4:2-3). Diversity of Gifts The chapter discusses the diversity of spiritual gifts given by Christ to equip the saints for the work of ministry and to build up the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:11-12). Each believer has a unique role to play in the church. Maturity in Faith Paul calls the church to grow in maturity, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ (Ephesians 4:13). This maturity helps believers avoid being tossed by the waves and carried around by every wind of teaching (Ephesians 4:14). Living a New Life The chapter contrasts the old self with the new self, urging believers to put off your former way of life and be renewed in the spirit of your minds (Ephesians 4:22-23). This transformation is marked by righteousness and holiness. Practical Applications Pursue Unity Actively seek to maintain unity in your church community by practicing humility, gentleness, and patience in your interactions with others. Identify and Use Your Gifts Reflect on the spiritual gifts God has given you and find ways to use them to serve and build up the church. Commit to Spiritual Growth Engage in regular Bible study, prayer, and fellowship to grow in your understanding and application of God's Word. Embrace a New Lifestyle Evaluate areas of your life that need transformation and commit to living in a way that reflects your new identity in Christ. People 1. Paul Paul is the author of the letter to the Ephesians. In Ephesians 4:1, he refers to himself as "a prisoner for the Lord," indicating his imprisonment for the sake of the Gospel. The Greek term used here is "δέσμιος" (desmios), which means a prisoner or one bound. 2. The Lord (Jesus Christ) Jesus Christ is central to the teachings in Ephesians 4. Paul emphasizes unity in the body of Christ and the gifts given by Christ to the church. In Ephesians 4:5, Paul mentions "one Lord," referring to Jesus, highlighting the unity and singularity of Christ in the faith. 3. The Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit is mentioned in Ephesians 4:4 as part of the unity of the Spirit. The Greek word "Πνεῦμα" (Pneuma) is used, emphasizing the role of the Holy Spirit in maintaining unity among believers. 4. God the Father In Ephesians 4:6, Paul refers to "one God and Father of all," underscoring the monotheistic belief in one God who is above all, through all, and in all. The Greek term "Θεός" (Theos) is used for God. 5. Apostles Ephesians 4:11 mentions apostles as one of the gifts Christ gave to the church. The Greek word "ἀπόστολος" (apostolos) means one who is sent, indicating their role as messengers and foundational leaders in the early church. 6. Prophets Also in Ephesians 4:11, prophets are listed as another gift to the church. The Greek term "προφήτης" (prophētēs) refers to those who speak forth the message of God, often with insight or foresight. 7. Evangelists Evangelists are mentioned in Ephesians 4:11 as those who proclaim the good news. The Greek word "εὐαγγελιστής" (euangelistēs) is used, highlighting their role in spreading the Gospel. 8. Pastors and Teachers Ephesians 4:11 also includes pastors and teachers, often seen as a combined role. The Greek words "ποιμήν" (poimēn) for pastor, meaning shepherd, and "διδάσκαλος" (didaskalos) for teacher, indicate their responsibilities in guiding and instructing the church. Places Ephesians 4 in the Berean Standard Bible does not specifically mention geographical places. Instead, it focuses on spiritual teachings and instructions for Christian living. However, if you are looking for a thematic breakdown or key concepts from Ephesians 4, I can provide that. If you have any other specific requests or need information on a different topic, feel free to ask! Events 1. Paul's Exhortation to Live Worthy of the Calling (Ephesians 4:1-3) Paul urges believers to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received" (Ephesians 4:1). The Greek word for "worthy" (ἀξίως, axios) implies living in a way that reflects the value of the calling. He emphasizes humility, gentleness, patience, and unity in the Spirit. 2. Unity in the Body of Christ (Ephesians 4:4-6) Paul highlights the oneness of the body of Christ, stating, "There is one body and one Spirit" (Ephesians 4:4). The Greek term for "one" (εἷς, heis) underscores the singularity and unity of believers in Christ. 3. Diversity of Gifts (Ephesians 4:7-10) Paul explains that grace has been given to each believer "according to the measure of Christ’s gift" (Ephesians 4:7). The Greek word for "gift" (δωρεά, dorea) refers to the spiritual gifts distributed by Christ. 4. Purpose of Ministry Gifts (Ephesians 4:11-13) Paul lists ministry roles such as apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, given "to equip the saints for works of ministry" (Ephesians 4:12). The Greek word for "equip" (καταρτισμός, katartismos) means to prepare or perfect. 5. Maturity and Growth in Christ (Ephesians 4:14-16) Paul encourages believers to grow into maturity, "no longer be infants, tossed by the waves" (Ephesians 4:14). The Greek term for "maturity" (τέλειος, teleios) signifies completeness or perfection in Christ. 6. Living as New Creations (Ephesians 4:17-24) Paul instructs believers to "put off your former way of life" and "put on the new self" (Ephesians 4:22-24). The Greek word for "new" (καινός, kainos) indicates a fresh, unprecedented nature. 7. Instructions for Christian Conduct (Ephesians 4:25-32) Paul provides practical guidance for Christian living, such as speaking truthfully, managing anger, and being kind and forgiving. He emphasizes, "Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other" (Ephesians 4:32). The Greek word for "forgiving" (χαρίζομαι, charizomai) conveys the idea of graciously pardoning. Lessons from Ephesians 4 1. Unity in the Spirit Ephesians 4:3 encourages us to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." This is a call to prioritize harmony within the body of Christ. Unity doesn't mean uniformity; it means celebrating our differences while focusing on our shared faith. By doing so, we reflect the love and peace of Christ to the world, showing that we are one body with one Spirit. 2. Embrace Your Calling In Ephesians 4:1, Paul urges us to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received." Each of us has a unique role in God's kingdom, and it's our responsibility to live out that calling with integrity and purpose. Whether you're a teacher, a parent, or a friend, your life is a testimony to God's grace. Embrace your calling with joy and dedication. 3. Practice Humility and Gentleness Verse 2 reminds us to be "completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." Humility and gentleness are not signs of weakness but of strength. They allow us to build deeper relationships and foster an environment where love can flourish. By practicing these virtues, we mirror the character of Christ. 4. Use Your Gifts for the Common Good Ephesians 4:11-12 speaks of the various gifts given to equip the saints for the work of ministry. Whether you are gifted in teaching, serving, or encouraging, your talents are meant to build up the body of Christ. Use your gifts not for personal gain but to serve others, contributing to the growth and maturity of the church. 5. Grow in Maturity Paul emphasizes in verse 13 the importance of reaching "unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, as we mature to the full measure of the stature of Christ." Spiritual maturity is a journey, not a destination. It involves growing in faith, understanding, and love, becoming more like Christ each day. 6. Speak the Truth in Love Ephesians 4:15 encourages us to "speak the truth in love." This means being honest and transparent while maintaining compassion and empathy. Truth without love can be harsh, while love without truth can be misleading. Balance both to build trust and foster genuine relationships. 7. Put Off the Old Self In verse 22, Paul instructs us to "put off your former way of life, your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires." This is a call to transformation, leaving behind sinful habits and embracing a new life in Christ. It's about daily renewal and choosing to live according to God's will. 8. Be Renewed in the Spirit of Your Mind Verse 23 tells us to "be renewed in the spirit of your mind." This renewal is a continuous process of aligning our thoughts with God's truth. It involves immersing ourselves in Scripture, prayer, and fellowship, allowing the Holy Spirit to transform our minds and hearts. 9. Put on the New Self Ephesians 4:24 encourages us to "put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." This new self is a reflection of God's character, marked by righteousness and holiness. It's about living a life that honors God and reflects His love to those around us. 10. Be Kind and Forgiving Finally, verse 32 calls us to "be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you." Kindness and forgiveness are powerful tools for healing and reconciliation. By forgiving others, we reflect the grace we've received from Christ, fostering peace and unity within the body of believers. Topics 1. Unity in the Body of Christ (Ephesians 4:1-6) Paul urges believers to live a life worthy of their calling, emphasizing humility, gentleness, patience, and love. The call for unity is grounded in the "one body and one Spirit" (Ephesians 4:4). The Greek word for "unity" (ἑνότης, henotēs) underscores the oneness and harmony expected among believers. 2. Diversity of Gifts (Ephesians 4:7-13) Christ has given different gifts to each believer for the purpose of building up the church. The passage highlights roles such as apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. The Greek term for "gifts" (χάρις, charis) refers to grace-endowed abilities meant for service and edification. 3. Maturity in Christ (Ephesians 4:14-16) Believers are encouraged to grow in maturity, no longer being "infants" tossed by waves of doctrine. The goal is to attain the fullness of Christ, with each part of the body working together in love. The Greek word for "mature" (τέλειος, teleios) implies completeness and perfection in spiritual growth. 4. The New Life (Ephesians 4:17-24) Paul contrasts the old self, characterized by futility and ignorance, with the new self, created to be like God in righteousness and holiness. The transformation involves a renewal of the mind, with the Greek word for "renewed" (ἀνανεόω, ananeoō) indicating a continual process of becoming new. 5. Christian Conduct (Ephesians 4:25-32) Specific behaviors are addressed, such as speaking truthfully, managing anger, and working honestly. Believers are called to be kind, compassionate, and forgiving, as God forgave them in Christ. The Greek word for "forgive" (χαρίζομαι, charizomai) is related to grace, emphasizing unmerited favor and pardon. Themes 1. Unity in the Body of Christ Ephesians 4:3-6 emphasizes the importance of maintaining unity among believers: "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." The Greek word for "unity" (ἑνότης, henotēs) underscores the oneness and harmony that should characterize the Christian community. 2. Diversity of Gifts Verses 7-13 discuss the diversity of spiritual gifts given to believers: "But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it... to equip the saints for works of ministry, to build up the body of Christ." The Greek term for "gifts" (χάρισμα, charisma) highlights the grace-based nature of these abilities, meant for the edification of the church. 3. Maturity and Growth Ephesians 4:13-15 speaks to the goal of spiritual maturity: "until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, as we mature to the full measure of the stature of Christ." The Greek word for "mature" (τέλειος, teleios) implies completeness and full development in Christ. 4. Renewal of the Mind In verses 22-24, Paul urges believers to "put off your former way of life, your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be renewed in the spirit of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." The Greek word for "renewed" (ἀνανεόω, ananeoō) suggests a continual process of transformation and renewal. 5. Christian Conduct Verses 25-32 outline specific behaviors that reflect a Christian lifestyle: "Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor... Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you." The emphasis on truth, kindness, and forgiveness reflects the ethical standards expected of believers. Prayer Points Pray for unity within your church and the global body of Christ, asking God to help believers live in harmony and love. Ask God to reveal and develop your spiritual gifts, and for opportunities to use them for His glory. Seek God's guidance and strength to grow in spiritual maturity and to stand firm in your faith. Pray for the Holy Spirit's help in transforming your life, enabling you to live in righteousness and holiness. Answering Tough Questions 1. Ephesians 4:4–6: How can there be “one faith” if Christianity itself is divided into countless denominations? 2. Ephesians 4:8–10: Does the idea of Christ “ascending” and “descending” conflict with modern scientific understanding of physical reality? 3. Ephesians 4:11: If apostles and prophets are still needed, why is there little historical or archaeological evidence confirming modern claims to these offices? 4. Ephesians 4:13–14: How can believers avoid being “tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine” if interpretations vary widely among Christians? 5. Ephesians 4:15–16: Does the call to “grow up in every way” into Christ conflict with passages elsewhere that emphasize human fallibility and sinfulness? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How can you apply the principles of unity as outlined in verses 1-6 in your daily life? 2. What does it mean to you to live a life 'worthy of the calling'? 3. How does the emphasis on humility, gentleness, and patience challenge your current behavior and attitudes? 4. How do you understand and practice the 'unity of the Spirit' in your local church and community? 5. How have you identified and used your spiritual gifts as discussed in verses 7-16? 6. How does the diversity of spiritual gifts enhance the unity and maturity of the church? 7. How does the concept of the 'old self' and 'new self' in verses 17-24 resonate with your personal spiritual journey? 8. How can you practically 'put on the new self' in your day-to-day activities? 9. In what areas of your life do you need to 'put off the old self' and embrace renewal? 10. How does Paul's call to a new way of life challenge your current conduct and practices? 11. Reflect on Paul's guidance on Christian conduct in verses 25-32. How do they apply to your interactions with others? 12. How can you foster forgiveness, kindness, and compassion in your relationships? 13. How does the teaching of Ephesians 4 inspire you to promote unity and growth in your church? 14. How can the teachings in this chapter inform your response to disagreements or conflicts? 15. How can you encourage spiritual growth and maturity in your Christian community based on Ephesians 4? 16. What steps can you take to renew your mind and transform your life as taught in this chapter? 17. Reflect on the link between doctrinal truths and practical living in Ephesians 4. How does this impact your understanding of Christian life? 18. How does the teaching on Christian conduct challenge you to change your speech and actions? 19. How can you better reflect God's forgiveness in your interactions with others? 20. How does Ephesians 4 shape your understanding of what it means to be a new creation in Christ? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions