Ephesians 4:5

One Lord, one faith, one baptism,

One {G1520} Lord {G2962}, one {G1520} faith {G4102}, one {G3391} baptism {G908},

And there is one Lord, one trust, one immersion,

one Lord, one faith, one baptism;

one Lord, one faith, one baptism,

Ephesians 4:5 (KJV): "One Lord, one faith, one baptism,"

Context

This verse is part of a powerful passage in Ephesians 4 (verses 1-6) where the Apostle Paul passionately exhorts believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling, emphasizing the importance of unity within the body of Christ. Having discussed doctrinal truths in the first three chapters, Paul now pivots to practical Christian living. He lists seven foundational "ones" that form the basis for this unity, urging believers to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Key Themes

  • Singularity of Christ's Authority: The declaration of "One Lord" points to Jesus Christ as the supreme and sole authority over all believers and the Church. His Lordship is the unifying headship under which all members function. This foundational truth means all Christians ultimately submit to the same Master. See Acts 2:36.
  • Shared Core Beliefs: "One faith" refers not primarily to the act of believing, but to the common body of truth and essential doctrines that define Christianity. It's the shared confession and understanding of who God is, who Jesus is, and the gospel message. While there is diversity in expression, there is a singular set of core beliefs that unite all genuine followers of Christ. This shared faith is the bedrock of Christian identity. See Romans 10:9.
  • Common Initiation and Identity: "One baptism" most likely refers to Christian water baptism, which serves as a public declaration of faith and identification with Christ's death and resurrection. It symbolizes entry into the covenant community and the body of Christ. While interpretations of the mode or timing may vary among denominations, the concept represents a shared experience of initiation into the Christian life and the church. See 1 Corinthians 12:13.
  • Basis for Unity: These three "ones," along with the four that follow in verse 6, provide the non-negotiable foundation for Christian unity. They highlight the essential realities that all believers hold in common, transcending cultural, social, or even secondary doctrinal differences.

Linguistic Insights

The emphatic repetition of the word "**one**" (Greek: heis or mia) throughout verses 4-6 is crucial. It underscores the absolute singularity and foundational nature of each element listed (one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father). This literary device emphasizes that the basis for unity is not a collection of diverse elements but a unified set of core realities.

Reflection and Application

Ephesians 4:5 calls believers to recognize and cherish the fundamental truths that bind them together. In a world, and even within the church, often marked by division, this verse serves as a powerful reminder to focus on the non-negotiables: acknowledging the same Lord, adhering to the same core faith, and sharing in the symbolic act of baptism that signifies our shared identity in Christ. Living out this verse means prioritizing these foundational elements and seeking unity based upon them, rather than allowing differences on lesser matters to cause discord.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Corinthians 8:6

    But to us [there is but] one God, the Father, of whom [are] all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom [are] all things, and we by him.

  • 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.

  • 1 Peter 3:21

    ¶ The like figure whereunto [even] baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:

  • Romans 3:30

    Seeing [it is] one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.

  • Matthew 28:19

    Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

  • 1 Corinthians 1:13

    Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?

  • Galatians 3:26

    For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.

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