4:2 4:2

Ephesians 4:3

4:4 4:4

Bible Versions

Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Endeavouring {G4704} to keep {G5083} the unity {G1775} of the Spirit {G4151} in {G1722} the bond {G4886} of peace {G1515}.
and making every effort to preserve the unity the Spirit gives through the binding power of shalom.
and with diligence to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
giving diligence to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Context of Ephesians 4:3

The Apostle Paul's epistle to the Ephesians transitions significantly from theological doctrine to practical exhortation in chapter 4. Having spent the first three chapters unfolding profound truths about God's eternal plan, the mystery of the church, and the spiritual blessings available to believers in Christ, Paul now shifts to how these truths should impact daily Christian living. The call to "endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" flows directly from his opening appeal in Ephesians 4:1 to "walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called." This worthy walk is characterized by humility, meekness, longsuffering, and forbearing one another in love, as detailed in Ephesians 4:2, setting the stage for the crucial command regarding unity.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Unity of the Spirit: This verse speaks of a unity that is already a spiritual reality, given by the Holy Spirit, not something believers create from scratch. It is an intrinsic oneness among all who are in Christ, a divine gift that transcends human differences. Our role is to "keep" or preserve this existing unity. Paul further elaborates on the basis of this unity in Ephesians 4:4-6, citing "one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all."
  • Endeavouring: The KJV word "endeavouring" implies active, diligent effort. It's not a passive suggestion but a command to earnestly strive and exert oneself to maintain this spiritual unity. This requires intentionality and hard work from every believer within the community.
  • The Bond of Peace: Peace serves as the essential "glue" or binding agent that holds the diverse members of the body of Christ together. This peace is both the peace with God that believers receive through Christ (Romans 5:1) and the active pursuit of harmony and reconciliation among fellow believers. It is through this atmosphere of peace that divisions are overcome and true fellowship thrives.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "endeavouring" is spoudazo (σπουδάζω), which conveys the sense of making haste, being diligent, exerting oneself, or being eager. It emphasizes a zealous and earnest pursuit of preserving the unity. This isn't a casual recommendation but a vital and active responsibility for every Christian.

The phrase "bond of peace" translates from the Greek sundesmos eirenes (σύνδεσμος εἰρήνης). Sundesmos literally means "that which binds together," like a ligament or a strong connecting band. It powerfully illustrates that peace is the indispensable element that connects and holds the diverse parts of the body of Christ together, preventing fractures and promoting cohesion. This concept is similar to Paul's description of love as the "bond of perfectness" in Colossians 3:14.

Practical Application

Ephesians 4:3 calls believers to a profound commitment to unity within the church. It reminds us that while the Holy Spirit establishes a spiritual oneness, it is our collective responsibility to actively maintain it through our actions and attitudes. This involves:

  • Prioritizing Harmony: Consciously working to resolve conflicts, forgive offenses, and understand differing perspectives.
  • Practicing Humility: Recognizing that our individual preferences should yield to the greater good of the body of Christ.
  • Fostering Peace: Being peacemakers in our interactions, rather than sources of contention or division.

In a world often marked by fragmentation and discord, the Christian church is called to be a powerful testimony to the unifying power of the Holy Spirit. By diligently keeping the unity in the bond of peace, believers reflect the heart of Christ, who prayed for His followers to be one (John 17:21).

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.

  • 1 Corinthians 1:10

    ¶ Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and [that] there be no divisions among you; but [that] ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.

  • Colossians 3:13

    Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also [do] ye.

  • Colossians 3:15

    And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

  • 1 Corinthians 12:12

    ¶ For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also [is] Christ.

  • 1 Corinthians 12:13

    For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether [we be] Jews or Gentiles, whether [we be] bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

  • Romans 14:17

    For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

  • Romans 14:19

    Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.
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