thinking bible.

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how does paul's call for unity in ephesians relate to jesus's prayer for unity in john 17?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Ephesians 4:1-3

I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to walk worthily of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and humility, with patience, bearing with one another in love; being eager to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

The Apostle Paul, writing from prison, urges the Christian communities in Ephesus to live in a way that reflects their shared calling. This passage comes after he has described God's grand plan for humanity and the church's place within it.

How might cultivating virtues like humility and patience in our daily interactions contribute to a larger sense of unity?

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Read alongside it

  • John 17:20-23

    Jesus prays for his followers to be united, reflecting the unity he shares with the Father.

  • Colossians 3:12-14

    Paul calls believers to put on virtues like compassion, kindness, humility, and patience, culminating in love, which binds everything together in perfect unity.

  • 1 Corinthians 12:12-13

    Paul describes the church as one body with many members, united by one Spirit despite diverse backgrounds.

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