Ephesians 4:25–5:2

Two Sundays ago, I shared with you from the second chapter of Ephesians of how Paul, the apostle to the gentiles reminded Jews and gentiles in Ephesus of their spiritual journey. A journey that took them from alienation to reconciliation, from division to unity, and from enmity to peace. In the second chapter Paul wrote to the members of the Early Church in Ephesus and addressed these two groups and reminded them of the incredible work of Christ in breaking down the barriers that were separating them. These barriers Paul was talking about were not just any barriers. They were religious, historical and cultural barriers. Barriers strong enough to keep these two groups not only divided but fighting for centuries.

Now in chapter 4, Paul is asking them to put into practice this unity Jesus has fostered, … and how can they do it? By being kind to each other and by stressing Jesus Christ as the reconciler and emphasizing their membership as one body, as one entity. Paul is inviting this Christian community to build bridges across these social divisions and promote spiritual development among their congregation.

Now, to us, building bridges and stressing Jesus Christ as the reconciler and emphasizing our membership as one body, as one entity that may sound something that automatic should happen among Christians, however, let us remember that outside the church these two groups were antagonistic communities with millennia-old rivalries (rA-il-val-ris). Therefore, Paul is asking the church in Ephesus to be different and not to let what happens outside influence or decide what happens inside the community of faith. In verse 17, Paul says, “So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking.” Here Paul is talking to Christians who were formerly part of that Gentile culture but have now come to faith in Christ. He is encouraging them to embrace their new identity and live according to the teachings of Christ.   

The message Paul gave the Early Church in Ephesus is an inspiring message that has withstood time and continues to resonate among believers today. In a society divided by antagonistic groups, Paul’s exhortations to live lives characterized by love, harmony, and submission to God’s will still relevant and necessary to hear over and over again.

            Ephesians 4:25-5:2 offers today’s church a guide for living a life that reflects the values and teachings of Christ. In these verses we learn at least six ways to express the unity in Christ and encourage each other.

Way number one: Speaking the Truth in Love.

“Therefore, each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.” 4:25

The first way we can have a strong relationship among one another is by removing falsehoods and speaking the truth in love. Paul emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity within the community, highlighting how interconnected we all are. We are members of the same body. Let us put off falsehood.

Way number 2: Not Allowing Our Anger to Become Sin.

“In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.” (4:26-27)

Anger is natural, but it should be managed constructively. Paul recommends resolving conflicts quickly to prevent discord and maintain harmony. While anger is an emotion that arises in any relationship, we must not allow our anger to become sin. Most of the times we find anger in the Bible always involves a righteous reaction to sinfulness. But biblical anger is always seasoned by love and redemption. Sinful anger always wants to hurt and get revenge. Paul is recommending us not to allow our anger to damage a relationship. “Do not let the sun go down on your anger.”

Way number 3: Working Hard.

“Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.” 4:28

Paul expresses a third way, that is through sharing the goods we have gained with our work. In verse 28 we are admonished not to steal but to work hard in order to have something to share with those who are in need. We must as members of Jesus’ body be positive example to society and support those in need and not take advantage of one another.

Way number 4: Speak Positive Words (4:29)

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

Paul is inviting us to cultivate a culture of uplifting and encouraging communication. Words should be used to support and build up others.

This is a verse that seems to stand out over the rest of the passage. Words are not neutral. The words we say are either positive, which means they build up other people, or they are negative, which means they tear down other people. Evaluating our words as to whether they are positive or negative is one of the most difficult things for us to do. We need to be more concerned with what we say and why we say it. We must be mindful of the way the other person hears and receives what we say. Perhaps the most encouraging thing we can do for others is to use our words to build them up.

Way number 5: by Forgiving, Kind and Compassionate.

“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” 30-32.

These verses are a call to promote forgiveness, kindness, and compassion by letting go of all negative emotions and behaviors that harm our relationships. Verses 30-32 is an invitation to build up others by forgiving them. Forgiveness means forgive others the same way God has forgiven us.

Way number 6: by Walking in Love Imitating Christ (5:1-2)

“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”

Paul’s final exhortation on how we can encourage others is to walk in love. Our whole attitude and disposition should be characterized by love. Such a character trait includes putting others before ourselves, wanting and working for the best in others, being patient and kind, and hoping and believing in others. It is easier to encourage others best when we love them most.

The apostle Paul has given us practical instructions on exactly how we can encourage other people and show our unity in Christ. Our relationships with each other deserve the greatest effort we can exert. When we put into practice what the Scriptures teach us, we enjoy healthy and happy relationships.

Ephesians 4:25–5:2 calls the church to live in unity, honesty, and love. By embracing these virtues, the church can be a beacon of Christ’s teachings in today’s world, fostering a community that reflects God’s love and grace.