Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. (Eph. 4:15)
Expanded Passage: Ephesians 4:1-16
Much like our world today, Ephesus was a diverse and immoral place, whose population engaged in a number of pagan cults and belief systems. Paul was writing to the Christians to encourage them to hold to the truth in Christ and to band together for support. Today’s Christ followers are in a similar position: we are surrounded by a confusing clash of opinions and worldviews. We would do well to follow Paul’s advice and stand together in solidarity against the insanity of secular culture. We need to press close to Jesus and to each other, while we ground ourselves in the truth of God’s Word.
Amid the flood of pluralism in the city of Ephesus, Paul reminded the Ephesians that there is only “one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all” (4: 5–6). This is the message the world needs to hear today. This is the truth that we must pass on to our children. When we are surrounded on all sides by temptation, deception, and persecution, we must turn to our brothers and sisters for support.
Remember, the body of Christ is the visible presence of God on earth. That is why the world hates us. But as we pull together and build each other up, God will use us as a great light to the world.
Do not try to go alone; turn to the family of God.
Lisa Riggs serves as associate professor of English and literature at Oklahoma Wesleyan University. She enjoys visiting with family, writing poetry, and painting landscapes.
© 2025 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
