Unity in the Body: What Ephesians Teaches About Church Life
Division is nothing new. In the first century, the church in Ephesus faced cultural, religious, and ethnic divides. Paul wrote to remind them that Christ had broken down the wall of hostility and made them one body. His call for unity in Ephesians still speaks powerfully today.
Unity in Christ: The Foundation
Paul explains in Ephesians 2:14 that Christ “has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility.” He was talking about Jews and Gentiles — two groups historically at odds. In Christ, both were welcomed into God’s family.
Unity in the church is not about agreement on everything. It’s about shared identity in Christ. We are one body, with one Lord, one faith, one baptism (Ephesians 4:4–5).
The Call to Keep Unity
In Ephesians 4:3, Paul says, “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Notice he doesn’t say “create unity” — that’s already done by Christ. Our role is to protect and nurture it.
Unity requires humility, gentleness, patience, and love (Ephesians 4:2). It means putting aside pride and selfish ambition to pursue peace.
What Unity Is — and Isn’t
Unity is not uniformity. Believers will have different gifts, perspectives, and backgrounds.
Unity is not avoiding conflict. True unity addresses issues with love rather than ignoring them.
Unity is not optional. It’s central to our witness in the world.
Why Unity Matters
Jesus prayed for His followers to be one (John 17). When believers live in unity, the world sees a reflection of God’s reconciling love. Division, on the other hand, weakens our witness.
In a divided culture, the church’s unity becomes a testimony to the power of the gospel.
Practical Ways to Pursue Unity
Pray for your church. Ask God to protect relationships and grow love.
Value diversity. Celebrate different gifts and perspectives as part of the body.
Forgive quickly. Don’t let bitterness take root.
Serve together. Shared mission strengthens unity.
Speak words of encouragement. Build up instead of tearing down.
Reflection Questions
Where do I see division hindering relationships in my church?
How can I personally “make every effort” to protect unity?
What steps can I take to show humility and gentleness this week?
A Prayer for Unity
“Lord, thank You that Christ has broken down every dividing wall. Help me to walk in humility, love, and patience. Strengthen Your church to live in unity so the world may see Your love.”
5-Day Ephesians Introduction
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Go Deeper with the Ephesians Bible Study
My book, Ephesians: Experience God’s Power, is an 8-session guided study designed to help you walk through the whole letter with Scripture reflections and applications for life. Get your copy here
