Ephesians 4:1-7
If you’re a Christian, you know the importance of being part
of a church, because that’s where we grow and worship together as the body of
Christ. However, it’s also a place where conflicts, disagreements, and
annoyances occur. Although we are saved and destined for heaven, we still live
in a fallen world and struggle with our own sins and weaknesses. What’s more,
we come from diverse backgrounds and have different personalities and levels of
spiritual maturity.
That’s why it’s essential that we learn to “walk in a manner
worthy of the calling” of Christ (Eph. 4:1). How would a physical body function
if the various parts ignored the brain’s direction and did their own thing?
That’s what happens when a church won’t listen to its head, Jesus Christ. The
inevitable result is conflict as individual members push their own agendas.
The only way we can walk worthy of our calling in a local
church is to have the qualities mentioned in verse 2: humility, gentleness,
patience, tolerance, and love. When these Christlike attributes characterize a
group of believers, being together will be like a small taste of heaven on
earth. Although there may still be disagreements, the manner in which they’re
handled will change. Instead of angry outbursts, silent resentment, and bitterness,
there will be greater concern for the other person than for oneself.
Thought for today: Can I be considered Christlike? Why/ why not?
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