I continue my study of Paul's prison epistles - Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Today I focus on Ephesians 4:1-7 where Paul urges unity in the church. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the text about God?: Throughout the text vv1-7 God is represented as Himself (the Father), the Son, and the Holy Spirit - He is three identities in one. Attributes of God include - per v2 - humility, gentleness, patience. V3 continues by describing Him as peaceful and seeking harmony among those in the church. V4: He is hope. Vv4-6: He is singular - there is none like Him. V6: He is sovereign - "over all and through all and in all."
- What do we learn from the text about people?: V1: Paul is both a literal prisoner - he is subject to house arrest in Rome, and he also captive/a slave to God (the latter of which is a good thing). Vv1-3: Believers are called to follow the example of Him per the attributes described in v2 with an eye towards ensuring unity and harmony in the church. Unity and harmony are key - otherwise the mission suffers. V7: Although God is described as singular - God's image, likeness, and spiritual gifts are in each believer. We are then ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20) for Christ both representing Him and serving His mission - which is to bring others to Him and to bring Him glory.
- Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): We should avoid unsettled conflict in the church. Claim the promise that the church is one body with many members all working together and all equally important - none are less important than others. We should follow the example of Christ who was humble, gentle, patient, and sought unity/harmony (see also Galatians 5:22).
My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who is worthy of all praise, honor and glory. Even though You reign over all, You came to earth as a lowly baby and then suffered and died for all of humanity so that they can call upon Your name as Lord. What a portrait of humility! Thank You for your humility and Your demonstration of love, gentleness, patience, etc....and for my salvation, and the blessings You pour out every day for me. I know my faith is not of my own doing and I am not deserving of how You love and save. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
