Paul urges them to be united so that his chains of imprisonment may not be in vain. To do so, they must be completely humble and gentle; be patient and bear with one another in love. This strenuous effort to keep unity through the Holy Spirit brings peace. And this peace unites the body as one. We are one in Spirit and one in hope. We have one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all. These are all the reasons why Christians must be united.

Paul explains that we each have a precious role in the church which is given through Christ's grace. When he ascended from the dead, he broke the curse and restored spiritual gifts: to be apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. These different gifts equip the church body for works of service. Together we build up the church, become unified, and attain maturity in Christ.

When we are united and work together, the church is no longer unstable or easily deceived by false teachers. Rather, we speak the truth in love and become mature with Christ as the head of the church, working together in love.


Application: Father, thank you for giving us real unity in Christ. Help me to be mature in faith, be united with other believers, and strengthen the body of Christ.
One Word: Mature and united in the body of Christ