3:21 3:21

Ephesians 4:1

4:2 4:2

Bible Versions

¶ I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,
I {G1473} therefore {G3767}, the prisoner {G1198} of {G1722} the Lord {G2962}, beseech {G3870} you {G5209} that ye walk {G4043} worthy {G516} of the vocation {G2821} wherewith {G3739} ye are called {G2564},
Therefore I, the prisoner united with the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called.
As a prisoner in the Lord, then, I urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received:
I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beseech you to walk worthily of the calling wherewith ye were called,

Ephesians 4:1 marks a pivotal shift in Paul’s letter to the Ephesians. After three chapters of profound theological exposition on God's eternal plan, the mystery of the church, and the riches of His grace, Paul now transitions to practical exhortation. This verse sets the stage for the rest of the epistle, urging believers to live out the glorious truths they have received.

Context

The Apostle Paul, writing from imprisonment (likely in Rome, as he mentions his status as "the prisoner of the Lord"), begins the practical section of his letter. Chapters 1-3 detailed the spiritual blessings believers have in Christ, including their election, redemption, and the bringing together of Jews and Gentiles into one body, the church. This rich doctrinal foundation is now followed by an appeal for a corresponding lifestyle. Paul's appeal is not a demand but a heartfelt "beseech," reflecting his pastoral concern and humility despite his chains. His imprisonment, far from hindering his ministry, served to magnify his message, demonstrating that his suffering was for the sake of the Gospel (compare with Ephesians 3:1 and Philippians 1:7).

Key Themes

  • Paul's Humble Authority: Describing himself as "the prisoner of the Lord" emphasizes that his suffering is not for a crime but for Christ's sake, lending weight to his appeal. It highlights his complete submission to God's will.
  • The Divine Calling: The "vocation wherewith ye are called" refers to the high and holy calling that believers have received in Christ. This is not merely a job or a career, but a divine invitation into God's family and purpose, encompassing salvation, sanctification, and service. It is a calling to be holy and blameless before Him (Ephesians 1:4).
  • Walking Worthy: The core exhortation is to "walk worthy." This means living a life that is consistent with, reflects, and honors the immense spiritual blessings and the high calling received. It implies a lifestyle that aligns with the character of God and the nature of the church.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "walk worthy" translates the Greek axiōs peripatēsai (ἀξίως περιπατῆσαι). The term axiōs (worthy) implies a corresponding weight or balance; our walk should be "of equal weight" or "in proportion to" the calling we have received. It's about living up to the standard set by God's grace. The word "vocation" comes from the Greek klēsis (κλῆσις), meaning a summons, invitation, or call. It is used in the New Testament specifically for God's divine call to salvation and service, emphasizing its divine origin and purpose (God's calling is irrevocable in Romans 11:29).

Practical Application

Ephesians 4:1 serves as a foundational challenge for every believer. It reminds us that our faith is not just a set of beliefs but a way of life. Understanding the profound truth of our divine calling should naturally lead to a transformed daily walk. This means:

  • Intentional Living: Consciously striving to live in a manner that reflects our identity in Christ, both individually and corporately.
  • Holiness and Integrity: Our conduct should match our confession, demonstrating integrity in all areas of life.
  • Unity and Love: As the subsequent verses in Ephesians 4 elaborate, walking worthy of our calling profoundly involves maintaining the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3). Our worthy walk is often expressed in how we relate to other believers.

This verse compels us to consider: Does my life reflect the incredible grace and high purpose to which God has called me?

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Colossians 1:10

    That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

  • Philippians 1:27

    ¶ Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:12

    That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:1

    ¶ Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort [you] by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, [so] ye would abound more and more.

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:2

    For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus.

  • 2 Peter 1:3

    According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that [pertain] unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:

  • 2 Timothy 1:9

    Who hath saved us, and called [us] with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,
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