Ephesians 4:7
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Unto every one of us is given grace - Grace may here signify a particular office; as if the apostle had said: Though we are all equal in the respects already mentioned, yet we have all different offices and situations to fill up in the Church and in the world; and we receive a free gift from Christ, according to the nature of the office, that we may be able to discharge it according to his own mind. So the free gift, which we receive from Christ, is according to the office or function which he has given us to fulfill; and the office is according to that free gift, each suited to the other.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But--Though "one" in our common connection with "one Lord, one faith, &c., one God," yet "each one of us" has assigned to him his own particular gift, to be used for the good of the whole: none is overlooked; none therefore can be dispensed with for the edifying of the Church (Eph 4:12). A motive to unity (Eph 4:3). Translate, "Unto each one of us was the grace (which was bestowed by Christ at His ascension, Eph 4:8) given according to," &c. the measure--the amount "of the gift of Christ" (Rom 12:3, Rom 12:6).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But unto everyone of us is given grace,.... Which may refer to the saints in common, and may be interpreted of justifying, pardoning, adopting, sanctifying, and persevering grace, bestowed upon them all, freely and liberally, not grudgingly, nor niggardly, and without motive and condition in them; or to the ministers of the Gospel, and so design gifts fitting for the ministry, which every one has, though differing one from another, and all of free grace: according to the measure of the gift of Christ: either according to the gift of grace to Christ before the world began, and the measure of it, which he communicates to them in time, even grace for grace; or according to that measure of gifts which Christ received from men at his ascension: it may be observed that every member of Christ, and minister of his, receive more or less grace and gifts from him; and that what they receive is all of free grace, and in measure; and though they may have gifts differing one from another, yet all are useful; so that there is no room for pride, envy, and contempt, which would break in upon the unity of the Spirit; for what is said from Eph 4:3 contains so many arguments to stir up the saints to endeavour to preserve that.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:7-16 Though believers share a common faith, God has given different special abilities to each individual believer for building up the church. 4:7 He has given each one of us a gift of his grace for building up the community of believers (see 1 Cor 12:7; cp. Rom 12:6; 1 Cor 12:11).
Ephesians 4:7
Unity in the Body
6one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.7Now to each one of us grace has been given according to the measure of the gift of Christ. 8This is why it says: “When He ascended on high, He led captives away, and gave gifts to men.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Spiritual Gifts): Gifts of the Spirit 3
By A.W. Tozer6.1K55:33Spiritual Gifts1CO 12:4EPH 4:7EPH 4:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having the gifts of the Holy Spirit in the church. He criticizes those who lack the necessary qualities to effectively communicate the word of God, comparing them to sparklers that quickly lose their impact. The speaker also expresses concern about the lack of love and devotion in the church, urging believers to pursue spiritual gifts while prioritizing love. He concludes by praying for God's guidance and protection against offering "strange fire" in their worship.
Meet Your Psychiatrist: He Makes You Rich
By Warren Wiersbe4.2K39:53ZEC 12:101CO 15:9EPH 2:8EPH 4:7EPH 4:11COL 3:16HEB 10:29In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of serving others with grace. He references First Corinthians 15:9-10, where Paul acknowledges his unworthiness but recognizes that it is by the grace of God that he is able to serve. The speaker encourages the congregation to use their unique gifts and abilities to serve others, even if they feel inadequate. He highlights the various ways in which members of the Moody Church are serving, such as visiting hospitals, jails, and homes, and emphasizes that serving others is done for the sake of Jesus, not for personal gain. The sermon also touches on the concept of singing with grace, even in difficult circumstances, and references the examples of Paul and Silas singing in prison and Jesus singing before going to the cross. The speaker concludes by reminding the congregation that God's grace is always available and abundant.
Humility in the Church
By John Murray1.9K27:43HumilityMAT 6:33ROM 12:11CO 12:4EPH 4:7JAS 1:17In this sermon, the Apostle Paul's plea to believers is based on the tender compassion of God. He urges all believers to present their bodies as a living sacrifice, which is their reasonable service to God. Additionally, believers are exhorted not to conform to the ways of the world, but to be transformed by renewing their minds. The Apostle Paul then introduces the concept of differences among believers, such as different offices, graces, and gifts bestowed by God. The most important consideration for members of the church of Christ is to not think of themselves more highly than they ought to, but to recognize that God has dealt each believer a measure of faith.
Walk of the New Man 03
By Rick Bovey1.7K30:23New ManPSA 96:1PSA 100:11CO 12:12EPH 1:3EPH 4:7EPH 4:12In this sermon, the speaker breaks down the passage into three parts. He begins by discussing the growth stages of children and relates it to the spiritual growth of believers. He then mentions the upcoming arrival of a minister and expresses excitement about it. The speaker goes on to explain that the sermon will focus on Ephesians chapters 4, 5, and part of chapter 6. He emphasizes the importance of unity, diversity, and edification in the body of Christ, and how believers should reflect the character of Jesus.
(Ephesians) Equipping of the Saints
By Brian Brodersen1.6K53:58ACT 2:33ROM 12:6EPH 4:7EPH 4:11In this sermon on Ephesians 4, the speaker emphasizes the transition from doctrinal teachings to practical instructions in the epistle. The importance of unity within the body of Christ is highlighted, with a reminder to avoid division over non-essential matters. The speaker appreciates the simplicity of Pastor Chuck's ministry, which made it accessible for everyone to participate and serve. The role of apostles, prophets, evangelists, and pastor teachers is discussed, emphasizing that their purpose is to equip the saints for the work of the ministry.
Commitment to the Assembly Mission 93
By William MacDonald1.5K58:29CommitmentEPH 4:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the church as the body of Christ. He uses the analogy of a torn index card to illustrate that the church is the completion of Christ. The speaker believes that the church is essential for expressing Christ to the world. He references Ephesians chapter four, which talks about the grace given to each believer and the gifts given by Christ after his ascension. The speaker also warns against the danger of gathering people to a man instead of to Christ and the hindrance of one-man ministry in the development of gifts in the assembly.
Tactics of Satan
By Gareth Evans1.2K40:49SatanROM 12:6ROM 12:101CO 12:41CO 12:7GAL 6:5EPH 4:4EPH 4:7In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of seeing over 100 young adults come to Christ in his small town. He emphasizes the joy of serving God and witnessing His anointing in ministry. The speaker also encourages the audience to focus on their own calling from God and not try to be something else. He then tells a story about a man he met at a men's retreat who later organized a car repair day at his church, highlighting the importance of using one's gifts to serve others and build unity in the body of Christ. The sermon references Ephesians 4:4-11, which speaks about the different gifts given by Christ to equip the saints for ministry.
Cincinatti Missions 1993 Conference Commitment to the Assembly
By William MacDonald1.1K57:50Conference1CO 12:12EPH 4:7COL 1:251TI 3:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the church as the body of Christ. He highlights that the church is the completion of Christ and his vehicle for expressing himself to the world. The speaker acknowledges the weakness of the clerical system and believes that the future of Christianity rests in the hands of ordinary men and women, rather than professional ministers. He quotes J.A. Stewart, who emphasizes the role of each member of the local assembly in evangelizing and bringing new believers into the church. The sermon also references Ephesians chapter four, which speaks about the grace given to each individual and the gifts given by Christ after his ascension.
Indigenous Principles
By William MacDonald1.1K43:46IndigenousEPH 4:7EPH 4:9In this sermon, the speaker focuses on indigenous principles and the importance of empowering local believers in spreading the gospel. He references Ephesians 4:7, which states that each believer is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. The speaker also mentions Psalm 139, where David refers to himself being curiously wrought in the lower parts of the earth, which the speaker interprets as the virgin's womb. He highlights the need for churches to be self-sustaining and not rely solely on foreign missionaries, emphasizing that missionaries can teach and mobilize nationals, but the nationals themselves can reach the unsaved in a unique way. The speaker praises the example of Paul in Thessalonica, where he preached the gospel, established a church, and raised up local leaders.
(1 Samuel) Winning Back More Than You Lost
By David Guzik1.1K40:341SA 30:161SA 30:212SA 7:12PSA 68:18MAT 5:16MAT 5:47EPH 4:7In this sermon, the speaker focuses on a story from the Bible about David and his 400 men. Despite being on a mission from God to pursue the Amalekites, David and his men come across an Egyptian man in the desert who is weak and hungry. Instead of ignoring him, David shows unexpected kindness and helps the man by giving him food and water. This act of kindness is praised by the speaker as an example of going above and beyond what is expected and being blessed by God for it.
The Manifestation of the Holy Spirit ( 2 of 2 )
By Stephen Kaung9191:46:56ROM 12:1ROM 12:61CO 12:11CO 12:3EPH 4:7EPH 4:11In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Moses and how he initially relied on his natural talents and education to serve God. However, God rejected Moses' efforts and sent him into the wilderness for 40 years to relearn and grow spiritually. The preacher emphasizes the importance of personal growth and surrendering oneself to God in order to discover and utilize one's spiritual gifts. He also highlights the need to present our bodies as living sacrifices to God, as stated in Romans 12. The sermon concludes with the reminder that our natural talents can only be used by God after they have gone through death and resurrection by Him.
The Biggest Thing on Earth
By Jim Cymbala62236:09ChurchPSA 32:1EPH 4:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of spreading the good news and building up the body of believers. He suggests that the church should consider reaching out to neighborhoods in Brooklyn and other parts of the city to plant the gospel and start new churches. The speaker also highlights the gift of showing mercy and lifting up those who have fallen down, using the example of a Christian evangelist who had a gift for bringing children to church. The sermon concludes with a call to action, urging believers to surrender their lives to God and to actively use their gifts for the strengthening of the church.
Overview of Biblical Eldership - All Elders Are Pastors
By Tim Conway5361:16:08MAT 23:8ACT 20:281CO 12:4GAL 6:3EPH 4:7PHP 2:31TI 3:1JAS 3:11PE 5:1This sermon delves into Ephesians 4, emphasizing the importance of humility and equality among church leaders. It highlights the diversity of gifts given by Christ to each individual according to His measure, while stressing the need for leaders to shepherd the flock with grace and responsibility. The sermon also addresses the biblical model of leadership, focusing on elders as overseers and pastors, promoting a spirit of unity and brotherhood rather than seeking titles of superiority.
"Well Done"
By David Wilkerson0Pursuing God's BlessingsSpiritual MaturityACT 24:16ROM 15:29EPH 3:19EPH 4:7EPH 4:13David Wilkerson emphasizes the call to pursue the fullness of Christ's blessings as outlined by Paul in his letter to the Ephesians. He highlights that true fullness is not about material wealth but about having a clear conscience and an open relationship with God, allowing His blessings to flow freely in our lives. Wilkerson reflects on Paul's confidence in his walk with Christ, which stemmed from his commitment to live without hidden sin and to strive for spiritual maturity. The ultimate goal is to receive God's commendation, 'Well done,' as a testament to our faithfulness. This pursuit of fullness is a divine task that every believer is called to embrace.
Epistle 49
By George Fox0Living in God's LightUnity in FaithLUK 1:33JHN 3:19ACT 15:9ROM 14:171CO 14:33EPH 1:13EPH 4:7HEB 12:9George Fox emphasizes the importance of living in the life and power of God, which teaches self-denial and keeps believers from strife and deceit. He encourages the faithful to remain in the light, where actions can be judged by the pure spirit, and to cultivate a deep fear of the Lord that leads to love and unity among one another. Fox warns against confusion and actions contrary to the light, urging believers to serve diligently and to wait for the power of God to transform their earthly nature. He reassures them that through faith and the spirit of promise, they can witness the eternal kingdom of God filled with love, joy, and peace. Ultimately, he calls for unity and growth in God's grace as they gather together in His name.
The Gifts of Christ
By Smith Wigglesworth0Unity in the Body of ChristGifts of ChristEPH 4:1EPH 4:7Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes the significance of the gifts of Christ as described by the Apostle Paul in Ephesians 4. He illustrates that upon believing, individuals become part of Christ's body, receiving grace and gifts that enable them to fulfill their divine calling. Wigglesworth encourages believers to seek the sealing of the Holy Spirit, which reveals Christ's glory and empowers them to serve in unity and strength within the church. He urges the congregation to press into their spiritual rights and live fully in God's will, becoming fruit-bearers for His glory. The sermon calls for humility and a deep connection with God through the Holy Spirit.
People Grace
By David Wilkerson0Compassionate MinistryGraceEPH 3:7EPH 4:7David Wilkerson emphasizes the concept of 'people grace,' highlighting that while God uses angels, He primarily relies on caring individuals to share His grace with others. This grace is not only a gift we receive but also a responsibility to dispense to those in need, as illustrated by the Apostle Paul's ministry. Wilkerson encourages believers to recognize their own healing through grace and to become channels of comfort for others, especially during times of suffering. He challenges the congregation to consider their role as stewards of God's grace, urging them to move beyond self-focused prayers to actively minister to others. Ultimately, our struggles can cultivate a deeper desire to extend mercy and grace to those around us.
Different Measures and Degrees of Holiness
By Thomas Brooks0GraceHolinessROM 12:31CO 12:42CO 9:8EPH 4:7PHP 2:121TH 5:24HEB 12:14JAS 4:62PE 3:181JN 1:8Thomas Brooks emphasizes that while all saints are equally justified and accepted by God, they do not all possess the same degree of holiness. He explains that holiness varies among believers, with some receiving more grace and holiness than others based on their individual needs and circumstances. This variation is part of God's divine plan, as He equips each saint with the necessary measures of holiness to fulfill their unique roles and challenges. Brooks encourages Christians to appreciate their own measure of holiness, to improve upon it, and to walk humbly in gratitude for God's grace.
The Essential Service of the Church
By T. Austin-Sparks0Individual Responsibility in MinistryThe Church's MissionEPH 4:7T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the essential service of the church as the body of Christ, which is called to fulfill God's divine purpose of filling all things with His presence. He illustrates this through the story of Esther, highlighting that the church is not merely for its own benefit but is a ministering instrument for the good of others. The sermon stresses that every individual in the church has a responsibility to contribute to the body, using the gifts given by Christ to build up the church and reach the fullness of Christ. Sparks warns against a self-centered approach and encourages believers to actively engage in their calling as ministers of Christ. Ultimately, the church's mission is to be a channel of God's grace and life to the world.
Mentality of the Spiritual Warrior (2 Corinthians 10:3-5)
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual WarfareRight MentalityLUK 6:38LUK 9:24LUK 14:27ROM 12:32CO 10:3EPH 4:7PHP 2:7T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the importance of having the right mentality in spiritual warfare, as outlined in 2 Corinthians 10:3-5. He warns against a self-centered approach to faith, where believers focus on what they can receive from Christ rather than what they can give to Him. Sparks highlights the need for Christians to recognize their role in a larger spiritual conflict, the true purpose of the Church, and the significance of ministries and relationships within the body of Christ. He encourages believers to cast down false imaginations and to bring every thought into obedience to Christ, fostering unity and purpose in the fight against spiritual adversaries.
The Measure of Christ (Colossians 1:27)
By T. Austin-Sparks0Indwelling ChristSpiritual GrowthROM 8:292CO 3:182CO 13:5GAL 4:19EPH 1:23EPH 4:7PHP 3:20COL 1:27COL 3:101JN 5:12T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound truth of 'Christ in you, the hope of glory' from Colossians 1:27, urging believers to recognize the significance of Christ's indwelling presence. He explains that true salvation, sanctification, and service are not mere concepts but are intrinsically linked to the person of Jesus Christ, who embodies these realities. The preacher highlights that spiritual growth is not achieved through effort but through a relationship with Christ, who transforms believers from within. Sparks calls for a focus on Christ as the central figure in all aspects of life, asserting that the measure of everything is determined by the manifestation of Christ. Ultimately, he encourages believers to yield to the work of the Holy Spirit, allowing Christ to be fully formed within them.
Questions/answers on Heaven
By James Blaine Chapman0EPH 4:7James Blaine Chapman delves into various questions about heaven, the afterlife, and the eternal abode of the saints, providing insightful answers based on biblical references. He discusses topics such as the glorified state, the descent of Jesus into hell, the understanding of languages in heaven, the immediate presence of the saints in heaven upon death, the eternal value of culture, the recollection of sin in heaven, degrees of reward in heaven, and historical events related to figures like John Calvin and Michael Servetus.
The Church Which Is His Body
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0ACT 1:6ACT 15:13ROM 11:251CO 12:12EPH 1:22EPH 4:7EPH 5:292TI 2:12REV 20:6Lewis Sperry Chafer preaches about the new purpose of God in this age, focusing on the formation of a heavenly people who are part of the kingdom in its present mystery form but not related to the Messianic earthly kingdom of Israel. The disciples, being Jews, initially struggled to understand Jesus' sacrificial death and the ministry of the new gospel age, which was later revealed through divine compulsion and the first church council. The Apostle Paul received a special revelation about the church as the 'called out ones,' a new body formed by both Jews and Gentiles, united in Christ and destined to be His bride and body, fulfilling the eternal purpose of God in this age of grace.
Epistle to the Ephesians
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0ACT 19:24ACT 20:31EPH 3:1EPH 4:7EPH 4:11EPH 4:17EPH 4:20EPH 5:1EPH 5:3Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the city of Ephesus, the temple of Artemis, and the Apostle Paul's ministry in Ephesus. He emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God, walking in love, and imitating Christ in our actions. Gaebelein highlights the unity of the Spirit in the body of Christ, the gifts given for ministry, and the purpose of these gifts in building up the Church. He urges believers to walk in holiness, righteousness, and separation from the ways of the world, following the example of Christ's sacrificial love.
Find Your Security in the Love of God
By Zac Poonen0MAT 10:30JHN 17:23ROM 8:32EPH 3:16EPH 4:7PHP 4:41TH 5:18HEB 4:31PE 5:7Zac Poonen preaches on the transformative power of knowing God as a Loving Father and a Sovereign God, emphasizing the revelation that the Father loves us just as He loved Jesus. He highlights the importance of being rooted and grounded in God's perfect love to overcome spiritual problems, anxiety, and insecurity, leading to a life of contentment and praise in all circumstances. Poonen stresses that victory in the Christian life comes through faith in God's love, not self-effort, and that finding security in God's love eliminates competition, jealousy, and the need for validation from others.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Unto every one of us is given grace - Grace may here signify a particular office; as if the apostle had said: Though we are all equal in the respects already mentioned, yet we have all different offices and situations to fill up in the Church and in the world; and we receive a free gift from Christ, according to the nature of the office, that we may be able to discharge it according to his own mind. So the free gift, which we receive from Christ, is according to the office or function which he has given us to fulfill; and the office is according to that free gift, each suited to the other.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But--Though "one" in our common connection with "one Lord, one faith, &c., one God," yet "each one of us" has assigned to him his own particular gift, to be used for the good of the whole: none is overlooked; none therefore can be dispensed with for the edifying of the Church (Eph 4:12). A motive to unity (Eph 4:3). Translate, "Unto each one of us was the grace (which was bestowed by Christ at His ascension, Eph 4:8) given according to," &c. the measure--the amount "of the gift of Christ" (Rom 12:3, Rom 12:6).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But unto everyone of us is given grace,.... Which may refer to the saints in common, and may be interpreted of justifying, pardoning, adopting, sanctifying, and persevering grace, bestowed upon them all, freely and liberally, not grudgingly, nor niggardly, and without motive and condition in them; or to the ministers of the Gospel, and so design gifts fitting for the ministry, which every one has, though differing one from another, and all of free grace: according to the measure of the gift of Christ: either according to the gift of grace to Christ before the world began, and the measure of it, which he communicates to them in time, even grace for grace; or according to that measure of gifts which Christ received from men at his ascension: it may be observed that every member of Christ, and minister of his, receive more or less grace and gifts from him; and that what they receive is all of free grace, and in measure; and though they may have gifts differing one from another, yet all are useful; so that there is no room for pride, envy, and contempt, which would break in upon the unity of the Spirit; for what is said from Eph 4:3 contains so many arguments to stir up the saints to endeavour to preserve that.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:7-16 Though believers share a common faith, God has given different special abilities to each individual believer for building up the church. 4:7 He has given each one of us a gift of his grace for building up the community of believers (see 1 Cor 12:7; cp. Rom 12:6; 1 Cor 12:11).