Ephesians: Reading the Bible for Spiritual Transformationਨਮੂਨਾ

Unity in Christ

Yesterday, we examined three ways that Paul's letter to the saints in Ephesus encourages us in the area of prayer. Prayer ushers you and me into an interactive, intimate relationship with God. As we navigate the moments of our day, walking with the Spirit, our eyes are opened to numerous opportunities to intercede in prayer for the souls of those living in close proximity to us. Over time, our hearts are filled with empathy and compassion, empowering us to speak the Truth in love with great boldness.

It is from this posture of prayer that we are invited to come together in a spirit of unity. As Jesus' apprentices, we are called to live a life characterized by humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another in love. (See Ephesians 4:1-3 NRSV) The kind of life where we willingly lay down our preferences, acknowledge our tendency to think we have spiritually arrived, and are quick to confess when we allow pride to distance us from others.

"But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace; in his flesh he has made both groups into one and has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us." (Ephesians 2:13-14 NRSV)

Upon closer examination of the Apostle Paul's words, here are three practical steps we would do well to consider as we seek to be unified in Christ, breaking down any walls of division that might exist among us.

First, consider attending a worship or church service outside of your denominational background or church preferences. In this place, ask the Lord to open your eyes to how he is working in the lives of your fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.

Second, go to lunch or coffee with a fellow Christian who looks, thinks, and was raised differently from you. Go with an open mind, a soft heart, and a willingness to have your faith stretched.

Finally, consider going on a mission trip to another country. The truth is God is at work all around the world. Serving, worshiping, and praying with our brothers and sisters around the world opens our eyes to a fuller, richer picture of the Gospel.

Today, will you join me in praying for unity among the Church? Praying that we lay down our preferences. Praying that we put our differences aside. And praying that we might be united in Christ with the common goal of advancing the Kingdom of God both in this life and the life to come.