In chapters 1-3 Paul lays the solid doctrinal foundation that he builds upon with practical application in chapters 4-6. Paul begins with this appeal to walk in a manner worthy of the gospel by relating to one another in ways that preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Our study will follow the outline below: 

1. Paul's Return (v.1)
2. Paul's Exhortation (v. 2-3)
3. Paul's Theological Grounding (v. 4-6)

In verses 1-3, the Apostle Paul teaches Christian believers about the call to a worthy walk. And then he explains what it is that characterizes the walk of every Christian believer. He says that every Christian is characterized by humility, gentleness, patience, forbearance, and unity. And then he goes on in verses 4-6 to explain the biblical foundation of this unity. The biblical foundation of unity in the church is that there is one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of all.

Getting Started                          

1. Paul says in verse 1, that he “urges” us to walk in a manner worthy. The word ‘urge’ or ‘beseech’ literally means to stand beside to help. Have you ever been in a race, match, or competition where the spectators exhorted you to keep running or playing well? How did their support or words of encouragement effect your performance? Share your story.

• Read Ephesians 4:1-6

2. What insight, principle, or observation from Sunday’s sermon did you find to be the most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling?

 Digging Deeper

3. Paul’s appeal to the Ephesians in verse 1, is for a particular assignment. What is this assignment? 

4. According to verses 1-3, what is the role of believers in maintaining unity? How can we actively pursue and preserve unity in New Life Church? 

5. In verses 4-6, Paul mentions several points that make up the biblical foundation of unity in the church. Can you name 5 of them?

 The Heart of the Matter

6. Chapter 4 focuses on the unity of the Spirit, and how Christians must make every effort to preserve it. But the New Testament also teaches that Christ’s people must separate from false teachers. Read the following passages and note how we can identify those with whom we should not unite:

• Matthew 7:15-23
• Galatians 1:8-9
• 1 Timothy 6:3-5
• 1 John 2:18-19  

7. How are you doing with being humble, gentle and patient? Do you live in the Bible’s teaching that “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6)? 

8. The realisation that we are sovereignly chosen and connected to the body of Christ will motivate us to live the normal Christian life. How does your behaviour effect the church?