Ephesians 4
The word ‘signature’ has exploded in the fashion world recently. Men and women alike are encouraged to purchase ‘signature’ pieces to create a new ‘signature’ statement, to reinvent a new ‘signature’ you! Paul, in Ephesians 4 is encouraging believers to be willing to make a signature statement with their lives; to shake off the old ways and take on a new identity in Christ. Paul, knowing God backs him up on this, knows that a Christian’s behavior, the way he conducts his personal life and his responsibility to other believers in the church, should reflect Christ.
Paul gives us three bullet points to help us establish this new identity…or signature look. The first is humility. Nobody is excluded from this first virtue which is completely opposite of pride. Christians need to guard against false humility, but recognize who they are in Christ. Paul listed this first to emphasize humility promotes unity. Second, a believer is to be gentle. Being the exact opposite of harsh, this virtue is not suggesting weakness, it is suggesting we have our emotions under control. Christ was gentle, but never weak! Third, we should exhibit patience. Patience is the spirit which never gives up for it endures to the end, even in the hard times.
Paul writes a very practical view of what our new look should reflect. Walking in unity by clothing ourselves with humility, gentleness and patience is a challenge to all Christians, new and old. To effectively mature and grow the body of Christ, our attitudes must also take on a new look; verse 23 tells us we are to be made new in the attitude of our minds.
Knowing your identity is in Christ is part of growing up and walking in the right direction. Paul calls us to travel on the same road and in the same direction; to stay together, both outwardly and inwardly. What a comfort to know we’re not making this journey alone.