Ephesians 4:1
Verse
Context
Sermons
Paul Washer
William MacDonald
David WilkersonPaul Washer
G.W. North
Chuck SmithChuck SmithSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I therefore - Therefore, because God has provided for you such an abundant salvation, and ye have his testimonies among you, and have full liberty to use all the means of grace; The prisoner of the Lord - Who am deprived of my liberty for the Lord's sake. Beseech you that ye walk - Ye have your liberty, and may walk; I am deprived of mine, and cannot. This is a fine stroke, and wrought up into a strong argument. You who are at large can show forth the virtues of him who called you into his marvellous light; I am in bondage, and can only exhort others by my writing, and show my submission to God by my patient suffering. The vocation wherewith ye are called - The calling, κλησις, is the free invitation they have had from God to receive the privileges of the Gospel, and become his sons and daughters, without being obliged to observe Jewish rites and ceremonies. Their vocation, or calling, took in their Christian profession, with all the doctrines, precepts, privileges, duties, etc., of the Christian religion. Among us, a man's calling signifies his trade, or occupation in life; that at which he works, and by which he gets his bread; and it is termed his calling, because it is supposed that God, in the course of his providence, calls the person to be thus employed, and thus to acquire his livelihood. Now, as it is a very poor calling by which a man cannot live, so it is a poor religion by which a man cannot get his soul saved. If, however, a man have an honest and useful trade, and employ himself diligently in labouring at it, he will surely be able to maintain himself by it; but without care, attention, and industry, he is not likely to get, even by this providential calling, the necessaries of life. In like manner, if a man do not walk worthy of his heavenly calling, i.e. suitable to its prescriptions, spirit, and design, he is not likely to get his soul saved unto eternal life. The best trade, unpractised, will not support any man; the most pure and holy religion of the Lord Jesus, unapplied, will save no soul. Many suppose, because they have a sound faith, that all is safe and well: as well might the mechanic, who knows he has a good trade, and that he understands the principles of it well, suppose it will maintain him, though he brings none of its principles into action by honest, assiduous, and well-directed labor. Some suppose that the calling refers to the epithets usually given to the Christians; such as children of Abraham, children of God, true Israel of God, heirs of God, saints, fellow citizens with the saints, etc., etc.; and that these honorable appellations must be a strong excitement to the Ephesians to walk worthy of these exalted characters But I do not find that the word κλησις, calling, is taken in this sense any where in the New Testament; but that it has the meaning which I have given it above is evident from Co1 7:20 : Εκαστος εν τη κλησει ᾑ εκληθη, εν ταυτῃ μενετω· Let every man abide in the calling to which he hath been called. The context shows that condition, employment, or business of life, is that to which the apostle refers.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you,.... Or "in the Lord"; that is, for the Lord's sake; See Gill on Eph 3:1. Some connect this phrase, "in the Lord", with the following word, "beseech": as if the sense was, that the apostle entreated the believing Ephesians, in the name of the Lord, and for his sake, to take heed to their walk and conversation, that it be as became the calling by grace, and to glory, with which they were called: and this exhortation he enforces from the consideration of the state and condition in which he was, a prisoner, not for any wickedness he had been guilty of, but for the Lord's sake, which seems to be the true sense of the word; and that, if they would not add afflictions to his bonds, as some professors by their walk did, he beseeches them, as an ambassador in bonds, that they would attend to what he was about to say; and the rather, since such doctrines of grace had been made known to them, which have a tendency to promote powerful godliness; and since they were made partakers of such privileges as laid them under the greatest obligation to duty, which were made mention of in the preceding chapters. That ye walk worthy of the calling wherewith ye are called; by which is meant, not that private and peculiar state and condition of life, that the saints are called to, and in: but that calling, by the grace of God, which is common to them all; and is not a mere outward call by the ministry of the word, with which men may be called, and not be chosen, sanctified, and saved; but that which is internal, and is of special grace, and by the Spirit of God; by whom they are called out of darkness into light, out of bondage into liberty, out of the world, and from the company and conversation of the men of it, into the fellowship of Christ, and his people, to the participation of the grace of Christ here, and to his kingdom and glory hereafter; and which call is powerful, efficacious, yea, irresistible; and being once made is unchangeable, and without repentance, and is holy, high, and heavenly. Now to walk worthy of it, or suitable to it, is to walk as children of the light; to walk in the liberty wherewith Christ and his Spirit make them free; to walk by faith on Christ; and to walk in the ways of God, with Christ, the mark, in their view, and with the staff of promises in their hands; and to walk on constantly, to go forwards and hold out unto the end: for this walking, though it refers to a holy life and conversation, a series of good works, yet it does not suppose that these merit calling; rather the contrary, since these follow upon it; and that is used as an argument to excite unto them: but the phrase is expressive of a fitness, suitableness, and agreeableness of a walk and conversation to such rich grace, and so high an honour conferred on saints.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
This is a general exhortation to walk as becomes our Christian profession. Paul was now a prisoner at Rome; and he was the prisoner of the Lord, or in the Lord, which signifies as much as for the Lord. See of this, Eph 3:1. He mentions this once and again, to show that he was not ashamed of his bonds, well knowing that he suffered not as an evil doer: and likewise to recommend what he wrote to them with the greater tenderness and with some special advantage. It was a doctrine he thought worth suffering for, and therefore surely they should think it worthy their serious regards and their dutiful observance. We have here the petition of a poor prisoner, one of Christ's prisoners: "I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you," etc. Considering what God has done for you, and to what a state and condition he has called you, as has been discoursed before, I now come with an earnest request to you (not to send me relief, nor to use your interest for the obtaining of my liberty, the first thing which poor prisoners are wont to solicit from their friends, but) that you would approve yourselves good Christians, and live up to your profession and calling; That you walk worthily, agreeably, suitably, and congruously to those happy circumstances into which the grace of God has brought you, whom he has converted from heathenism to Christianity. Observe, Christians ought to accommodate themselves to the gospel by which they are called, and to the glory to which they are called; both are their vocation. We are called Christians; we must answer that name, and live like Christians. We are called to God's kingdom and glory; that kingdom and glory therefore we must mind, and walk as becomes the heirs of them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:1–6:20 Therefore: Ephesians divides into two sections, the first devoted to explaining the Good News, the second to drawing out the implications for Christian living. This arrangement reflects Paul’s belief that believers’ lives should be a response of gratitude for God’s grace. 4:1-6 God’s saving grace for both Jews and Gentiles should be reflected in how the two groups relate to each other in the church: They are to accept each other warmly, just as God has accepted them. 4:1 I, a prisoner for serving the Lord: See study note on 3:1. • Though salvation can never be earned, believers are to live in a manner worthy of their calling to salvation (see Phil 1:27; Col 1:10; 1 Thes 2:12). • called by God: See Eph 1:4-5, 11.
Ephesians 4:1
Unity in the Body
1As a prisoner in the Lord, then, I urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received:2with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love,
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Offer Your Bodies a Living Sacrifice
By Paul Washer16K57:14SacrificeROM 3:23ROM 6:23ROM 8:1ROM 12:1EPH 4:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the radical depravity and evil nature of mankind, highlighting that there is no hope for self-righteousness. The first 11 chapters of the book of Romans are discussed, where Paul presents the theology of God, Christ, and man's sinful state. The preacher emphasizes that after understanding the great things God has done for humanity through Christ, believers should respond by giving their lives away for Him. The motivation for the Christian life is rooted in the knowledge of what God has done for us in Christ.
The Local Church 1 - Part 1
By William MacDonald4.9K09:18EPH 4:1
This sermon delves into the significance of the New Testament Assembly, emphasizing its importance to God and Jesus Christ. It addresses misconceptions about the church and highlights the need for active participation and understanding of its definition. The message explores the concept of the church as an assembly of believers, both locally and universally, and reveals the mystery of the church age as a unique society with a heavenly calling and destiny.
Foot Washing
By David Wilkerson4.4K56:17DivisionEPH 4:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of waiting in God's presence and being saturated in His holy word. The message highlights the need to focus on God rather than idolizing evangelists. The preacher encourages believers to wash each other's feet, symbolizing humility and serving one another in love. The sermon references Ephesians 4:1-3, which urges believers to walk worthy of their calling and maintain unity in the Spirit. The preacher also references Malachi 3:1-3, which speaks of the refining and purifying work of God in the lives of His people.
The Joy of Giving It All (Part 1)
By Paul Washer4.2K45:09PSA 23:1MAT 6:33ROM 12:1GAL 5:22EPH 4:1In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Romans chapter 12, verse 1, urging the congregation to present their bodies as living and holy sacrifices to God. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the radical depravity of humanity and the need for salvation. The preacher highlights the multifaceted mercies of God and encourages the congregation to hold onto these mercies as they seek to live a transformed life. He also emphasizes the role of accountability in the church, with the pastor teaching and the congregation holding the preacher accountable. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the radical call to give one's entire life to God and the importance of knowing and obeying the truth.
Apostle's Doctrine - Part 3
By G.W. North2.5K1:20:55Apostles DoctrinePSA 119:18MAT 4:18ROM 8:26ROM 8:36EPH 1:18EPH 4:1JAS 1:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being a son to God. He refers to scripture, specifically the Roman lesson in the famous 8th chapter, to explain that nothing in this world can come to fame unless it goes through death. The preacher encourages the audience to be moved by the Word of God and warns against being unmoved or unaffected by it. He also highlights the concept of the body of Christ, emphasizing that believers are chosen in Christ before the foundation of God.
(Through the Bible) 1 Chronicles 12-17
By Chuck Smith2.5K55:31Through The BibleROM 12:1EPH 1:3EPH 1:7EPH 1:11EPH 1:13EPH 4:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of responding to what God has done for us rather than relying on our own efforts to earn His blessings. The speaker refers to the book of Ephesians, where Paul spends three chapters explaining all the things that God has done for believers. The speaker criticizes the use of pressure tactics and worldly methods to raise funds for God's work, stating that if God guides a project, He will provide for it. The sermon also mentions the story of David, who was overwhelmed by God's blessings and promises for him and recognized the impossibility of adequately expressing his gratitude.
(Through the Bible) Colossians 1
By Chuck Smith2.4K1:11:19MAT 24:14MRK 16:15JHN 15:16ACT 8:26EPH 4:1COL 1:10COL 1:23In this sermon, the speaker begins by expressing gratitude for Jesus Christ, who came to earth as the manifestation of God and dwells in the hearts of believers. The speaker emphasizes the importance of the power of the Holy Spirit in being effective witnesses for the gospel. They mention that the gospel has been preached throughout the world and bears fruit. The speaker also mentions the need to trust in God's guidance and take one step at a time, using the example of Philip being directed to go to Gaza. The sermon concludes with the speaker acknowledging the significance of chapters 2 and 3 in the New Testament and expressing the intention to delve into them in the next session.
(Through the Bible) Ephesians 4
By Chuck Smith2.2K50:03LUK 23:43JHN 21:15EPH 4:1EPH 4:11HEB 6:1HEB 11:13In this sermon, the speaker begins by reminding the audience that he is a prisoner of the Lord. He then urges them to walk worthy of their calling, emphasizing that their response to God is important. The speaker highlights how God has done great things for them, bringing them near and providing for them. He contrasts this with the emphasis on works in some religions, stating that God's work for us should come before our response to Him. The speaker also discusses the importance of love as a motivating factor in our lives, contrasting it with greed. He mentions that men are either motivated by love or greed, and encourages the audience to follow Jesus' teaching of loving one another.
(Ephesians) Ephesians 5:21-6:11
By Zac Poonen1.9K47:03EPH 1:3EPH 4:1EPH 5:22EPH 6:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation in our personal walk with God. This foundation is built on God's perfect love for us and is the basis for our relationship with Him. The speaker then discusses the three stories or levels that we should build upon this foundation: our personal walk with God, our home life, and our ministry. The sermon also highlights the significance of living in purity, humility, and love, both in our homes and in our workplaces, as a reflection of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
Christ, Our Indwelling Sanctifier
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.8K22:49SanctifierPSA 119:105PSA 139:23JHN 17:17EPH 4:1PHP 2:12HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of prayer and the power of God to transform our hearts. He highlights the concept of God's creation and how we, as humans, are meant to reflect the image of the Son of God. The preacher expresses gratitude for the meetings and the presence of Christ in them. He emphasizes the need for conviction and repentance when our hearts are rebellious. The sermon also emphasizes the authority and power of the Word of God to discern our thoughts and intentions. The preacher encourages the listeners to open their hearts to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to make them more like Jesus.
Remember the Calling
By Stephen Kaung1.7K1:12:39Calling Of GodROM 8:28EPH 1:18EPH 4:1EPH 4:42TI 1:7In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of Christians having a form of godliness but denying its power. He emphasizes that it is not surprising to find such behavior in the world, but it is alarming when it is present among Christians. The speaker highlights the importance of being trustworthy and standing firm in the testimony of Jesus, even in difficult times. He emphasizes that Christians are called to be the body of Christ and should strive to walk worthy of this calling.
Walk of the New Man 05
By Rick Bovey1.7K38:37New ManEPH 4:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of the "walk of the new man" as described in the book of Ephesians. The walk of the new man is characterized by humility, unity, and a unique identity in Christ. The speaker emphasizes the importance of living a loving and righteous life, walking in the light and wisdom of God. The sermon also touches on the themes of gratitude, submission to one another, and the fear of God.
The Beauty and Power of Unity
By Denny Kenaston1.7K1:21:56UnityEPH 4:1EPH 4:3In this sermon, the speaker addresses the challenges and responsibilities faced by the congregation. He acknowledges that the load and responsibility of serving can cause the fire in their hearts to wane. The speaker encourages the congregation to have willing hearts and to blend in with the church community. He emphasizes the importance of unity and love among believers, using scriptures from Ephesians and Psalm 133. The sermon concludes with a reminder to walk worthy of the calling and to strive for unity in the bond of peace.
How Do You Live Church Life
By Stephen Kaung1.7K1:19:54Church LifeEPH 4:1EPH 4:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the theme of God's love and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. He urges the audience to let this theme stir their hearts and to constantly keep it in their minds. The preacher also highlights the significance of living in this theme, especially as the end of the age approaches. He then discusses the unity of the spirit and the importance of diligently maintaining it, using the example of a valuable possession that is carefully guarded. The sermon is based on the book of Ephesians, particularly chapter 4, where the apostle Paul exhorts believers to walk worthy of their calling and to bear with one another in love.
(Spiritual Fullness #2) Have This Mind in You
By Dana Congdon1.7K1:18:33Mind of ChristACT 4:23EPH 4:1EPH 4:3COL 3:12COL 3:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living a life worthy of the calling we have received in Christ. He encourages believers to walk in humility, gentleness, patience, and love, showing tolerance for one another. The speaker highlights the unity of the body of Christ and the individual gifts that each member has received by grace. He shares a personal experience of evangelism and encourages believers to step out in faith and share their testimonies. The sermon concludes with a reminder to continue seeking spiritual fullness and hunger for a deeper relationship with God.
Through the Bible - Ephesians - Part 2
By Zac Poonen1.7K55:03MAT 6:33EPH 3:10EPH 4:1EPH 4:17EPH 4:20EPH 4:23EPH 4:25EPH 5:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of Christians walking in a manner worthy of their calling. The first key aspect mentioned is humility, which is seen as essential for proper praise and worship. The sermon then delves into three areas of relationships: husbands and wives, children and parents, and masters and servants. The speaker highlights the need for proper behavior and treatment in these relationships, both in the home and in the workplace. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that while Jesus lived externally like others, it was his heavenly mindset that guided his behavior, and Christians are called to follow his example in their homes and in the church.
The Long Suffering of God
By Zac Poonen1.7K42:00Long SufferingEPH 4:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the foundation of God's goodness before trying to live up to His commandments. He encourages the audience to read Ephesians 1 to 3, which focuses on what God has done for us, to find encouragement and assurance. The speaker also highlights the significance of Jesus becoming a man and experiencing weakness and temptation, allowing Him to sympathize with our struggles. The sermon concludes with the message of love, as the speaker references 1 John 4 and encourages believers to love one another as a reflection of knowing and experiencing God's love.
The Cross and Emancipation From Circumscribed Horizons
By T. Austin-Sparks1.6K1:18:06The CrossMAT 6:33EPH 4:1EPH 5:22EPH 5:25EPH 5:31EPH 5:33In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of walking in the calling that God has given us, despite the difficult conditions of the world. He encourages husbands and wives to apply this principle in their relationships. The speaker also highlights the reality that sometimes, after a lifetime of costly ministry, there may be little visible fruit or recognition. However, he reminds listeners that even a small impact on someone's life can make a significant difference. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the work of the Holy Spirit in leading believers beyond their intellectual understanding and into a deeper spiritual experience.
Ye Are Come to Zion - Part 7
By T. Austin-Sparks1.6K55:03ZionPSA 132:13MAT 6:33EPH 1:4EPH 4:1HEB 12:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing and embracing the specific purpose and calling that God has for each individual. He encourages listeners to see their lives as being part of a greater destiny and to live with a sense of purpose and focus. The speaker also highlights the constant efforts of the enemy to hinder and destroy the testimony of believers, but reminds listeners to listen to their own new nature and long for fellowship with God's people. Ultimately, the sermon encourages believers to live in alignment with God's purpose and to rely on Him in the face of opposition.
The Cross and Eternal Glory - Part 4
By T. Austin-Sparks1.6K47:21Eternal GloryEPH 4:1In this sermon, the speaker tells a story about a man named Goan who had the right to redeem a lost inheritance. However, there was another man who had a prior right to redeem. The two men met in the gates where redemption transactions took place. The speaker then applies this story to the lives of Christians, emphasizing the importance of living differently and taking on the conduct of God's people in every relationship and connection. The sermon concludes with an invitation to respond to the urging of the Holy Spirit for redemption and union with Christ.
(The Works of Faith) What God Has Done for Us
By Zac Poonen1.5K1:08:52EPH 1:3EPH 4:1EPH 4:31In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the contrast between the first three chapters of Ephesians and chapter four. He points out that the first three chapters do not contain any commands or exhortations from God, but chapter four is filled with them. The speaker highlights one specific command from verse 4:31, which instructs believers to put away all anger from their lives. He uses the analogy of removing chairs from a room to emphasize the importance of completely eliminating anger. The speaker also emphasizes the need for balance in the Christian life, highlighting the two legs of the Christian life: what God has done for us and what we are supposed to do for God. He warns against falling into the trap of only focusing on one aspect and encourages readers to meditate on the verses in Ephesians 1-3 to understand the foundation of what God has done for them in Christ.
33 - the Unity of the Church of Christ
By Ben Torrey1.5K10:11UnityEPH 4:1In this sermon, Ben Torrey discusses the importance of unity within the body of Christ. He emphasizes that unity is a gift from God but can easily be lost if not guarded. The key to maintaining unity is through peace among believers, and any disturbance of this peace, such as jealousy or sin, can lead to a loss of unity. Torrey highlights the calling of believers to walk in humility, gentleness, patience, and love, and emphasizes that unity is preserved through the bond of peace. He also addresses the issue of position within the church, urging believers to focus on their place in God rather than seeking personal status.
K-450 the Royal Priesthood
By Art Katz1.5K44:39PriesthoodEXO 4:22MAT 6:33JHN 7:38ACT 13:2ROM 12:1EPH 4:11PE 2:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of looking beyond the physical and material things in life. He uses the example of wanting to go to the mall just to see the merchandise behind the glass displays, highlighting the desire for something more engaging to the eyes. The speaker then connects this desire to the need for adoration before God and the recognition of His majesty. He also mentions the role of angels being sent out from the throne of God and how our comprehension of God's glory leads to a deeper understanding of His will. Overall, the sermon encourages listeners to seek a deeper spiritual experience and to be prepared for the holy ministry.
(Colossians) 09 in Christ-Old Man vs New Man
By Bob Utley1.5K39:38ColossiansMAT 7:21ROM 12:2GAL 5:22GAL 6:7EPH 4:1EPH 4:17JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the power of our words and the importance of using them to bless rather than curse. He highlights the need for unity among believers, regardless of race, socioeconomic status, or academic arrogance. The speaker emphasizes that there are only two kinds of people in the world: those who know Jesus Christ and those who need to know Him. He challenges listeners to examine their own lives and consider whether their actions and words reflect Jesus or bias. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the eternal life believers have in Christ, regardless of temporary circumstances.
Waterloo Conference - Part 2
By Colin Anderson1.3K29:09Bible ConferenceEPH 1:16EPH 4:1EPH 4:3EPH 4:14COL 1:15COL 2:6In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of unity among believers. He emphasizes the need for Christians to work together and support one another in order to fulfill God's purpose. The speaker also highlights the spiritual blessings that believers have in Jesus Christ and encourages them to walk worthy of their calling. The sermon concludes with the reminder that everything God does is good and that He takes pleasure in His creation.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I therefore - Therefore, because God has provided for you such an abundant salvation, and ye have his testimonies among you, and have full liberty to use all the means of grace; The prisoner of the Lord - Who am deprived of my liberty for the Lord's sake. Beseech you that ye walk - Ye have your liberty, and may walk; I am deprived of mine, and cannot. This is a fine stroke, and wrought up into a strong argument. You who are at large can show forth the virtues of him who called you into his marvellous light; I am in bondage, and can only exhort others by my writing, and show my submission to God by my patient suffering. The vocation wherewith ye are called - The calling, κλησις, is the free invitation they have had from God to receive the privileges of the Gospel, and become his sons and daughters, without being obliged to observe Jewish rites and ceremonies. Their vocation, or calling, took in their Christian profession, with all the doctrines, precepts, privileges, duties, etc., of the Christian religion. Among us, a man's calling signifies his trade, or occupation in life; that at which he works, and by which he gets his bread; and it is termed his calling, because it is supposed that God, in the course of his providence, calls the person to be thus employed, and thus to acquire his livelihood. Now, as it is a very poor calling by which a man cannot live, so it is a poor religion by which a man cannot get his soul saved. If, however, a man have an honest and useful trade, and employ himself diligently in labouring at it, he will surely be able to maintain himself by it; but without care, attention, and industry, he is not likely to get, even by this providential calling, the necessaries of life. In like manner, if a man do not walk worthy of his heavenly calling, i.e. suitable to its prescriptions, spirit, and design, he is not likely to get his soul saved unto eternal life. The best trade, unpractised, will not support any man; the most pure and holy religion of the Lord Jesus, unapplied, will save no soul. Many suppose, because they have a sound faith, that all is safe and well: as well might the mechanic, who knows he has a good trade, and that he understands the principles of it well, suppose it will maintain him, though he brings none of its principles into action by honest, assiduous, and well-directed labor. Some suppose that the calling refers to the epithets usually given to the Christians; such as children of Abraham, children of God, true Israel of God, heirs of God, saints, fellow citizens with the saints, etc., etc.; and that these honorable appellations must be a strong excitement to the Ephesians to walk worthy of these exalted characters But I do not find that the word κλησις, calling, is taken in this sense any where in the New Testament; but that it has the meaning which I have given it above is evident from Co1 7:20 : Εκαστος εν τη κλησει ᾑ εκληθη, εν ταυτῃ μενετω· Let every man abide in the calling to which he hath been called. The context shows that condition, employment, or business of life, is that to which the apostle refers.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you,.... Or "in the Lord"; that is, for the Lord's sake; See Gill on Eph 3:1. Some connect this phrase, "in the Lord", with the following word, "beseech": as if the sense was, that the apostle entreated the believing Ephesians, in the name of the Lord, and for his sake, to take heed to their walk and conversation, that it be as became the calling by grace, and to glory, with which they were called: and this exhortation he enforces from the consideration of the state and condition in which he was, a prisoner, not for any wickedness he had been guilty of, but for the Lord's sake, which seems to be the true sense of the word; and that, if they would not add afflictions to his bonds, as some professors by their walk did, he beseeches them, as an ambassador in bonds, that they would attend to what he was about to say; and the rather, since such doctrines of grace had been made known to them, which have a tendency to promote powerful godliness; and since they were made partakers of such privileges as laid them under the greatest obligation to duty, which were made mention of in the preceding chapters. That ye walk worthy of the calling wherewith ye are called; by which is meant, not that private and peculiar state and condition of life, that the saints are called to, and in: but that calling, by the grace of God, which is common to them all; and is not a mere outward call by the ministry of the word, with which men may be called, and not be chosen, sanctified, and saved; but that which is internal, and is of special grace, and by the Spirit of God; by whom they are called out of darkness into light, out of bondage into liberty, out of the world, and from the company and conversation of the men of it, into the fellowship of Christ, and his people, to the participation of the grace of Christ here, and to his kingdom and glory hereafter; and which call is powerful, efficacious, yea, irresistible; and being once made is unchangeable, and without repentance, and is holy, high, and heavenly. Now to walk worthy of it, or suitable to it, is to walk as children of the light; to walk in the liberty wherewith Christ and his Spirit make them free; to walk by faith on Christ; and to walk in the ways of God, with Christ, the mark, in their view, and with the staff of promises in their hands; and to walk on constantly, to go forwards and hold out unto the end: for this walking, though it refers to a holy life and conversation, a series of good works, yet it does not suppose that these merit calling; rather the contrary, since these follow upon it; and that is used as an argument to excite unto them: but the phrase is expressive of a fitness, suitableness, and agreeableness of a walk and conversation to such rich grace, and so high an honour conferred on saints.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
This is a general exhortation to walk as becomes our Christian profession. Paul was now a prisoner at Rome; and he was the prisoner of the Lord, or in the Lord, which signifies as much as for the Lord. See of this, Eph 3:1. He mentions this once and again, to show that he was not ashamed of his bonds, well knowing that he suffered not as an evil doer: and likewise to recommend what he wrote to them with the greater tenderness and with some special advantage. It was a doctrine he thought worth suffering for, and therefore surely they should think it worthy their serious regards and their dutiful observance. We have here the petition of a poor prisoner, one of Christ's prisoners: "I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you," etc. Considering what God has done for you, and to what a state and condition he has called you, as has been discoursed before, I now come with an earnest request to you (not to send me relief, nor to use your interest for the obtaining of my liberty, the first thing which poor prisoners are wont to solicit from their friends, but) that you would approve yourselves good Christians, and live up to your profession and calling; That you walk worthily, agreeably, suitably, and congruously to those happy circumstances into which the grace of God has brought you, whom he has converted from heathenism to Christianity. Observe, Christians ought to accommodate themselves to the gospel by which they are called, and to the glory to which they are called; both are their vocation. We are called Christians; we must answer that name, and live like Christians. We are called to God's kingdom and glory; that kingdom and glory therefore we must mind, and walk as becomes the heirs of them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:1–6:20 Therefore: Ephesians divides into two sections, the first devoted to explaining the Good News, the second to drawing out the implications for Christian living. This arrangement reflects Paul’s belief that believers’ lives should be a response of gratitude for God’s grace. 4:1-6 God’s saving grace for both Jews and Gentiles should be reflected in how the two groups relate to each other in the church: They are to accept each other warmly, just as God has accepted them. 4:1 I, a prisoner for serving the Lord: See study note on 3:1. • Though salvation can never be earned, believers are to live in a manner worthy of their calling to salvation (see Phil 1:27; Col 1:10; 1 Thes 2:12). • called by God: See Eph 1:4-5, 11.