UNITY IS REQUIRED OF US (EPHESIANS 4:1-13)
REFLECTION
In this reflection, we focus on the essential need for oneness within the Church. To understand this theme, we must define two key terms:
- Unity: This is the state of being joined together as a whole. It is not just about being in the same room, but having the same purpose and spirit.
- The Body of Christ: This is a term used to describe the Church. Just as a human body has many parts that work together, the Church has many members who must function as one.
Main Lessons:
- Unity is a daily choice and a “walk” we must take.
- God provides leaders to help us grow and stay united.
- Our strength comes from our shared foundation in God.
The Call to Unity
The Apostle Paul teaches us that unity does not happen by accident. It requires effort. He tells us to “…walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:1-3)
Practical unity means choosing to be humble even when we think we are right. It means being patient with a fellow church member who learns slowly or has a different opinion. When we “bear with one another,” we are choosing to support each other’s burdens rather than judging them.
The Purpose of Leadership
God knows that without guidance, we can easily be led astray. Paul warns that without growth, we are like children tossed by waves. To prevent this, Jesus “…gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God…” (Ephesians 4:11-13)
In many churches today, we see “unwholesome politics” or competition between leaders. This goes against God’s plan. Leaders are not given to us for status, but to “equip” us. When a teacher explains the Bible clearly, it helps the whole church grow in the same direction. As Psalm 133:1 says, “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!”
Our Shared Foundation
The reason we must be united is that we share the same spiritual foundation. Paul reminds us that “There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” (Ephesians 4:4-6)
Even though “grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:7), these different gifts are meant to help the one body. For example, if one person is good at singing and another is good at cleaning, both are using Christ’s gifts to serve the same “one Lord.” During this season of Lent, we are reminded to let go of any divisive behaviour and focus on the sacrifice of Jesus, which brings us all together.
Conclusion
Unity is not an option; it is a requirement. We are called to be humble, to learn from our leaders, and to remember that we serve the same Father. When we stop competing and start supporting, the Body of Christ becomes strong and healthy.
Call to Action:
This week, identify one person in your church or community with whom you have had a disagreement. Reach out to them with “gentleness and patience” to restore peace. Let us commit to building up rather than tearing down.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for calling us into one body. Forgive us for the times we have allowed pride or competition to divide us. Help us to walk in a manner worthy of our calling. Grant our leaders wisdom to equip us, and give us hearts that are eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit. May we grow together in the knowledge of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
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