Ephesians__4
Scripture
Ephesians 4:32 NIV
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Observation-What does it say?
Paul opens this chapter by encouraging the church to be united as a Body in Christ and to grow up in maturity as they each do the work that Christ has called them to do. Paul then gives instructions for Christian living. The one highlighted to me was the last verse, about forgiveness.
Understanding-What does it mean?
Unity in the Body of Christ is impossible without forgiveness.
Paul LOVED the church and he knew what would lead to its disunity and ultimate destruction. He talks about several things such as impurity, greed, unholy living, lies, anger and unwholesome talk (aka slander/gossip). He then brings it back to Christ and reminds the church of the importance of being kind, compassionate and forgiving towards each other. He wanted them to remember what Christ sacrificed for them and how Christ loved and forgave them. Healthy churches are forgiving churches.
Luke 17:3-4-Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him, and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him.”
Matt. 18:33-35-And should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?’ And in anger his master delivered him to the jailers, until he should pay all his debt. So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.”
Matt. 6:15-But if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses
Life Application
Confess to God any unforgiveness or bitterness lingering towards a brother or sister and forgive them from your heart.
Dear Jesus, we pray for Your strength to forgive our family from our hearts. We desire to love and forgive like You do. Teach us Holy Spirit to put aside any differences, anger or bitterness that the enemy would use to divide and destroy us, and instead help us remain united in You. Help us remain united to the mission You have called us each to and to do our part well. Help us to work together as a whole and healthy Body, growing in maturity with You as our Head. Amen.
-Michelle Gaddi