Text: Ephesians 4:3-6
Paul instructed the church in Ephesus to be “diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit.” He then went on to explain the basis for this unity. Our unity must be based upon this same foundation. Paul mentioned seven “ones” that provided the foundation for unity. If we want to know how we can have unity, this is a good place to start.
One Body
- Paul already defined the body as the church (Ephesians 1:22-23)
- There is ONE church that belongs to Christ – it was built (Matthew 16:18) and bought (Acts 20:28) by Him; there are many churches in the world, but we need to be part of His church
One Spirit
- The Holy Spirit’s work involved revealing the word of God (John 16:13) – related to this, He confirmed the word with various gifts and miracles (Hebrews 2:4)
- The fact that there is ONE Spirit means there is only one source of revelation – so we need to test the spirits (1 John 4:1, 6)
One Hope
- We hope and strive for an eternal home in heaven (John 14:2-3)
- Our ONE hope is not in this life (1 Corinthians 15:19) – our eternal inheritance is reserved in heaven (1 Peter 1:4)
One Lord
- This is Jesus Christ (Acts 2:36) – it is significant that He is called “Lord“; one with authority
- He is the ONE who has all authority (Matthew 28:18) – this is the basis for our teaching and practice (Matthew 28:19-20); we cannot call Him “Lord” if we do not do what He says (Luke 6:46)
One Faith
- This is more than just a belief in Christ – faith comes by hearing the word of God (Romans 10:17); the gospel contains the ONE faith produces faith in us (Romans 1:16-17)
- It was once for all handed down to the saints (Jude 3) – it is not going to be altered or replaced
One Baptism
- This is a burial in water for the remission of sins (Acts 8:36; Romans 6:3-4; Acts 2:38; 22:16)
- Baptism for a different reason or using a different mode is not the ONE baptism
One God and Father
- There are many “gods” that men serve (1 Corinthians 8:5) – yet we know there is ONE God (1 Corinthians 8:4, 6)
- He is the creator (Acts 17:23-26) – we must serve Him as God; have no other “gods” before Him (Exodus 20:3; cf. 1 John 5:21)
Conclusion
- The Lord desires us to have unity – but it must be “the unity of the Spirit“
- If we understand and agree on these seven “ones,” we can have unity
- When we do, we must be diligent to preserve this unity and not allow anything to divide us
