Ephesians 4:4–6
There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
Scripture Insights
The focus of Jesus’s last prayer for all his followers was for their unity. Paul signals here that the prayer of Jesus is answered. Unity is a present, established reality. It is not merely an aspirational idea, nor is it is optional.
In view of the ugly divisions observed in the visible church today, this established unity is clearly not a reference to the structural or organizational unity found in doctrinal consensus, denominational agreement, and/or commitments to shared faith traditions. The basis of the unity of the church is profoundly spiritual. It is a Spirit-mediated induction into a global spiritual community that embraces together the absolute lordship of Jesus Christ—his exemplary life, atoning death, triumphant resurrection, and sovereign rule as King of the kingdom of God.
All members of God’s family share this experience of spiritual unity across race, culture, and class. It is, therefore, a truly diagnostic mark identifying those who are really part of the invisible church and those who are not. Unity is the shared grace of being children of God the Father.
Today’s Prayer
Father, deliver us from the evil one, who seeks to destroy our unity. Triune God, fill us with yourself so that your holy love will bind us together as a witness of your grace in a polarized world.
Prayer Journal Reflections
Reflect on the unity of the church in Canada and the United States.
—Sam Vassel
District Superintendent, Metro New York
