Let Your Light Shine

Living Before the World

A Call to Holiness and Love

 Living for Christ in a Watching World

Suffering, Holiness, and Hope

Living as Witnesses to God’s Glory

Reflection on 1 Peter 2:11–4:19

As believers, we are described as “temporary residents and foreigners” in this world (1 Peter 2:11). Our true home is with God, as Revelation 21:3 promises: “God himself will be with them.” This understanding shapes how we live before the watching world, emphasizing holiness, love, and steadfastness, even in suffering.

Peter’s exhortation echoes Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” This blog explores how Peter’s teachings guide our lives as Christians living in a culture that often opposes God’s ways.

1. Living as Strangers in the World (1 Peter 2:11-12)

Peter urges believers to abstain from sinful desires and live honorably among unbelievers. Matthew Henry notes, “Though Christians are in the world, they must not be of the world. Their holy conduct should point others to God.” Similarly, C.S. Lewis writes, “If you read history, you will find that the Christians who did most for the present world were precisely those who thought most of the next.”

Peter’s call to good works aligns deeply with Paul’s instructions in Ephesians 6:7: “Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people,” and Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” Both apostles emphasize that our daily actions—whether at work, home, or in public—are opportunities to glorify God. Our integrity, diligence, and kindness demonstrate the transformative power of the Gospel, inviting others to see God’s love through us.

2. Christ as Our Example in Suffering (1 Peter 2:21-25; 4:1-2)

Peter reminds us that Christ never sinned but suffered for our freedom. Eugene Peterson, in The Message, paraphrases Peter’s teaching: “He used his servant body to carry our sins to the Cross so we could be rid of sin, free to live the right way.”

Jesus’ suffering was part of God’s plan (Matthew 16:21-23) and serves as a model for us. Dallas Willard encourages us to see suffering as transformative: “In the midst of suffering, we learn to trust God in ways we never could otherwise.” Pain and trials reveal our true values and help align our lives with Christ’s purposes.

3. Influencing Others Through a Changed Life (1 Peter 3:1-7)

Peter highlights the power of a transformed life, especially within families. Christian wives, through their inner beauty and quiet strength, can influence unbelieving husbands. Proverbs 31:30 reminds us, “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”

William Barclay notes that 1 Peter 3:7 emphasizes a radical shift in how marriage was understood in Peter’s time: “In a world where the rights of women were often trampled on, Christianity brought in a new regard for the dignity of women.” He highlights that husbands are called to cherish their wives not as property but as equal partners in grace.

Matthew Henry further elaborates: “The woman was made out of Adam’s side; she was not made out of his head to rule over him, nor out of his feet to be trampled upon, but out of his side to be equal with him, under his arm to be protected, and near his heart to be beloved.”

Peter’s exhortation to husbands in 1 Peter 3:7 calls for a Christ-like love marked by honor, understanding, and partnership. Husbands are to treat their wives with gentleness and respect, recognizing them as equal heirs of God’s grace. Though physically weaker in some cases, wives are spiritual equals, deserving of the same dignity and care. Paul echoes this in Ephesians 5:25: “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” Such love fosters unity and ensures unhindered prayers, reflecting God’s heart for marriage.

John Stott affirms, “Holiness is not a condition for salvation, but it is the characteristic of those who are saved.” A life marked by godliness and love has the power to draw others to Christ.

4. A Call to Unity and Love (1 Peter 3:8-9; 4:7-9)

Peter lists five virtues that should characterize believers: harmony, sympathy, love, compassion, and humility. Rick Warren observes, “Unity is a witness to the world. When we walk in love and forgiveness, we reflect Christ to others.”

We are also called to live expectantly, knowing Christ’s return is imminent (4:7-9). Love and hospitality are essential marks of readiness. Henri Nouwen writes, “Hospitality means primarily the creation of free space where the stranger can enter and become a friend.”

5. Suffering as a Mark of Faithfulness (1 Peter 4:12-19)

Peter teaches that suffering for being a Christian is not shameful but a blessing. He reminds us of Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:11: “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.”

Alexander Maclaren adds, “The world may sneer, but God smiles. There is no greater honor than to suffer for His name.” Trusting God in trials refines our faith, as Hebrews 12:7 highlights: “Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children.”

Living Before the World: Final Thoughts

As temporary residents, our lives should reflect the values of our eternal home. N.T. Wright reminds us, “Our task is to bear witness to God’s new creation in the midst of this present world.”

When we live honorably, embrace suffering with faith, and prioritize unity and love, we point others to Christ. As Richard Foster says, “The world is desperate for a people who live what they profess.”

Prayer

Heavenly Father, 

Thank You for calling us to be Your people in this world. Help us to live as faithful witnesses, reflecting Your love, holiness, and grace in all we do. Strengthen us in suffering, guide us in love, and fill us with hope as we await Christ’s return. May our lives bring glory to Your name and lead others to know You. 

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Living in Unity

Walking Worthy

Unity in Diversity

Insights from Ephesians 4:1-16 

The Book of Ephesians offers profound insights into the nature of the Church and the Christian life. In Ephesians 4:1-16, the Apostle Paul transitions from theological teaching to practical exhortation, urging believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling. This passage serves as a roadmap for unity and maturity within the body of Christ, emphasizing the importance of spiritual gifts, growth, and love. Paul begins with a personal plea, urging believers to embrace their collective calling to live out God's purpose in unity. The passage highlights the balance between being childlike in faith—exhibiting trust and humility—and maturing in understanding and responsibility. It explores how unity is rooted in God’s nature, enriched by diverse spiritual gifts, and sustained through love, ultimately calling believers to grow together into the fullness of Christ.

Walking Worthy of Our Calling

Paul begins with a personal plea: "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received" (Ephesians 4:1, NIV). The imagery of being a prisoner highlights the seriousness of his appeal. Our calling as Christians is not just a matter of personal salvation but a collective invitation to live out God's purpose in unity with others.

C.S. Lewis writes, "The Church exists for nothing else but to draw men into Christ, to make them little Christs. If they are not doing that, all the cathedrals, clergy, missions, sermons... are simply a waste of time. God became Man for no other purpose" (Mere Christianity). Lewis emphasizes that our calling is centered on becoming like Christ, which naturally leads to unity.

Living a life worthy of our calling means embodying the character and mission of Christ. It is through becoming "little Christs" that we foster true unity within the Church, as our collective purpose is aligned with God's will. Our personal transformation and commitment to Christlikeness directly contribute to the health and unity of the entire body of believers.

The Call to Unity - Inward-Outward-Upward-Onward

Verses 2-3 stress the attitudes necessary for unity: humility, gentleness, patience, and love. These virtues enable believers to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace" (Ephesians 4:3). Unity is not merely an abstract ideal but a practical reality sustained by intentional effort and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Paul emphasizes the theological basis for unity in verses 4-6, listing seven elements that bind believers together: one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father. These affirmations remind us that our unity is rooted in the very nature of God and the core tenets of our faith. 

This understanding of unity as both a reflection of our divine identity and a work of the Holy Spirit helps frame our approach to fostering peace and harmony within the Church. It calls us to actively cultivate these attitudes while relying on the Spirit to maintain the bond of peace.

William Barclay comments, "Christian peace is not the absence of trouble. It is the presence of God." In his commentary on Ephesians, Barclay explains that true unity is not the absence of conflict but the presence of peace brought by the Spirit of God. This perspective reminds us that unity does not mean a lack of challenges or disagreements, but rather a shared commitment to maintain peace through God's presence.

Eugene Peterson, in The Message, paraphrases Ephesians 4:4-6 as "You were all called to travel on the same road and in the same direction, so stay together, both outwardly and inwardly." Peterson highlights the intentional effort required to maintain unity among believers. This calls us to actively work towards harmony, recognizing that unity is both an internal attitude and an outward expression of our shared journey in Christ.

John Calvin observes, “No man is fit to be reckoned among the children of God, who is not one of the brethren, who does not in a sense of duty cultivate peace and love, who does not endeavor to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Calvin underscores that unity is intrinsic to our identity as God's children. It is not merely a desirable trait but a reflection of our shared commitment to living out God's peace and love.

Adam Clarke adds, “This unity is maintained only by the Spirit of God; it cannot be preserved by any human means or power.” Clarke highlights that true unity is a divine gift rather than a product of human effort. It is the Holy Spirit who sustains and nurtures unity among believers, reminding us that our efforts alone are insufficient without divine support.

The call to unity involves both the cultivation of Christ-like virtues and the deliberate effort to live in peace with one another. It is through humility, gentleness, patience, and love that we can truly embody the unity that Paul envisions, fostering a community where God's presence and peace prevail. The inward transformation of our character, the outward pursuit of peace with others, the upward connection to God's nature, and the onward commitment to the Holy Spirit's work all paint a picture of unity that is dynamic and holistic that Paul calls us to embody. It is not a passive state but an active, living reality shaped by our relationship with God and one another. This approach challenges us to see unity as a lifelong journey, one that continually draws us deeper into God's presence and into loving community with others.

Diversity of Gifts

While unity is crucial, Paul also acknowledges diversity within the body of Christ. In verses 7-11, he explains that grace has been given to each believer according to the measure of Christ’s gift. This diversity of gifts is not meant to create division but to enrich the Church. Paul mentions specific roles such as apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, which are given "to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up" (Ephesians 4:12).

Richard Foster writes, "Spiritual gifts are not toys to play with. They are tools to build with, and if they are not used in love, they become weapons to fight with" (Celebration of Discipline). Foster underscores that the purpose of spiritual gifts is to serve and build up the Church, promoting unity rather than division. This perspective highlights the critical role of love in using our gifts, ensuring they foster cooperation and growth rather than conflict and fragmentation.

Matthew Henry notes in his commentary, "The diversity of gifts comes from the same Spirit, and for the common good. This diversity contributes to the greater good of the whole, making it more perfect and complete." Henry emphasizes that the diversity of gifts is essential for the Church's health and growth. Each unique gift, when utilized for the common good, complements the others, leading to a more robust and unified body of Christ.

Reflecting on these insights, we see that the diversity of gifts within the Church is a divine design meant to enhance unity and strength. When spiritual gifts are exercised in love and for the common good, they contribute to the overall health and maturity of the Church. This diversity, grounded in the same Spirit, enriches the community, making it more complete and effective in fulfilling God's purpose. 

Diversity reveals that the varied gifts within the Church are designed to work in harmony, enhancing the Church's mission and promoting unity. Each member’s contribution is vital to the body’s overall health and effectiveness.

Growing to Maturity

The ultimate goal of this diversity and unity is maturity. Paul envisions a Church that reaches "unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ" (Ephesians 4:13). Maturity involves stability in doctrine, discernment, and a commitment to truth spoken in love. This maturity is not an individual pursuit but a corporate experience as each member contributes to the growth of the whole body.

John Wesley emphasizes, "There is no holiness without social holiness. There is no religion but social religion." Wesley stresses that maturity in Christ is not a solitary pursuit but a communal journey. Holiness, according to Wesley, is inherently social, reflecting Christ's love and holiness in our interactions with others. This means that our spiritual growth is intertwined with our relationships and responsibilities within the Church community.

Reflecting on the theme of growing to maturity, we see that true maturity in the Christian faith involves a collective journey towards Christlikeness. It requires believers to take responsibility not only for their personal spiritual growth but also for the growth and well-being of others. This communal pursuit of maturity leads to a deeper unity within the Church, as each member supports and builds up one another, striving together to reflect the fullness of Christ.

Spiritual maturity is a dynamic and holistic process. It requires both doctrinal clarity and relational depth, aiming for a Christlike love that binds the Church together and propels it toward its full potential.

Love as the Binding Force

Paul concludes this section by returning to the theme of love, the driving force behind true unity and maturity. "From him, the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work" (Ephesians 4:16). Love is the adhesive that holds the body of Christ together, enabling it to function effectively and reflect God's glory to the world.

C.S. Lewis reminds us, "Love is not affectionate feeling, but a steady wish for the loved person's ultimate good as far as it can be obtained." This understanding of love aligns with Paul's exhortation to build each other up in love, seeking the ultimate good of others. Lewis's perspective emphasizes that love is an active, enduring commitment to the well-being of others, transcending mere emotions to become a steadfast pursuit of their highest good.

Eugene Peterson describes love as "the warp and woof of life in Christ." In his writings, Peterson underscores that love is the essential fabric that holds the Church together, enabling it to function as the body of Christ. This metaphor illustrates that love is interwoven into every aspect of our Christian life, providing the strength and cohesion necessary for the Church to operate effectively and harmoniously. unity and maturity within the Church.

Matthew Henry writes, “Love is the cement which holds the stones of the spiritual building together. Without this, all will be disjointed.” Henry emphasizes that love is the critical element that binds the diverse parts of the Church into a cohesive whole. Without love, the various members of the Church remain disconnected, undermining the unity and effectiveness of the body.

Albert Barnes adds, “Nothing will so promote the growth and edification of the church as love. The church is united in the spirit of love, and the love of Christ constrains us.” Barnes highlights that love is not just a binding force but also a driving force for growth and edification. It’s through the love of Christ that the Church is motivated and empowered to grow and build itself up in unity and purpose.

Love is indispensable for maintaining the Church’s unity and fostering its growth. It’s the deep, abiding love that connects members and ensures the body functions effectively as a unified whole, reflecting Christ’s love in all aspects of Church life.

Reflecting on the theme of love as the binding force, we see that love is the essential element that unites and matures the Church. It is not simply a feeling but a profound commitment to the welfare of others, a foundational principle that sustains and builds up the body of Christ. In embodying this love, we fulfill the calling to live out our faith in a way that reflects Christ's own love and sacrifice, ensuring that the Church grows in unity and purpose.

Conclusion

Ephesians 4:1-16 challenges us to embrace both unity and diversity within the Church. As we walk worthy of our calling, we must cultivate attitudes that foster unity, recognize and celebrate the diversity of gifts, and strive toward spiritual maturity. In doing so, we become a living testimony of God's grace, reflecting the fullness of Christ in our communities and beyond. Love serves as the essential binding force that unites and matures the Church, ensuring that our faith is not just a personal journey but a communal endeavor. Through our collective efforts, we can reflect Christ’s love and grace to the world, becoming a vibrant and effective Church that glorifies God in all things. May we, as the body of Christ, grow together in love, unity, and purpose, fulfilling the calling God has placed upon us.

Soli Deo Gloria

United in Christ - St. Paul's letter to the Ephesians

There is 

One body and 

One Spirit, just as you were called in 

One hope of your calling; 

One Lord, 

One faith, 

One baptism; 

One God and Father of all, 

Who is above all, and 

Through all, and 

In you all.”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4:4-6‬ ‭

St. Paul wrote to the Ephesians to encourage and strengthen them in their walk of faith, and challenge them to be the united Body of Christ in the world today. He frequently used the phrase "in Christ" to highlight the new relationship that believers had with Christ. He was convinced that in Christ all the spiritual and social barriers are removed, and in so doing we become one in Christ through bonds of peace and love (Eph 4:3).

Ephesus, a harbor city (in modern-day Turkey), was one of the most influential churches that St. Paul established during his missionary journey. St. Paul first visited Ephesus on his return from his second missionary journey. He left Priscilla and Aquila his fellow workers in Christ to teach and train those living in Ephesus (Acts:18:19-21). On his third missionary journey, St. Paul made Ephesus his center for evangelism, as it was well connected to the other churches in Asia. He stayed in Ephesus for three years (Acts 20:31), teaching the church community there.

The city at that time was famous because of the temple of the Roman goddess Diana (Greek Artemis), it was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. The following is a timeline of the temple of Artemis and other wonders of the world (courtesy Wikipedia).

During his time in Ephesus, St. Paul's preaching ministry was so effective that the local silversmiths, saw a steep fall in the demand for the goddess Diana idols. They forced him to leave the Ephesus and set off for Macedonia (Acts 20:1)

The letter written while St. Paul was in prison in Rome in the early 60s, refers to him as "a prisoner for Christ" (Eph 3:1) and "ambassador in chains" (Eph 6:20). He wrote this letter towards the end of his life, and his writing is more reflective and prayerful. When St. Paul started his ministry, there was a sense of urgency that Christ's coming may occur in his lifetime. However as the years went by and his possible martyrdom approached, his letter to the Ephesians was written looking at a long term perspective (Eph 1:4-5), to strengthen the members, explaining the substance, mission and life of the church.

Tychicus of Ephesus visited him while he was in prison and probably carried the letter to the Ephesians (Eph 6:21-22). Although the letter was sent to the Ephesians, in those days a general letter like this was circulated to other churches in the neighboring cities (Col 4:16).

The key thought in Ephesians is the reconciliation of all things together in Christ (Ephesians 4:15). Ephesians comprises of six chapters. In the first three chapters of Ephesians he talks about doctrines and the vertical relationship of love with God. In the last three chapters he speaks of daily living and the horizontal relationship of love with the church community. When by grace our faith (vertical relationship) in God is strong, then Christ's love transforms our fellowship with each other (horizontal relationship). In other words Ephesians (Eph 1:15) tells us what we should believe and how we should behave.

In accepting one another as brothers and sisters in Christ we live to the praise of His glory. Let us pray that through this message, we may begin to see as Jesus sees all of us as one, just as He and the Father are one in us (John 17:20-21).

Unity Leads to Faith - Disunity Leads to Doubt

Jesus Prays for Believers 

Jesus prayed for believers  saying,

O Father may I be in them and You in Me, 

That they may become Perfectly One, 

So that the world may know that 

You loved them even as You loved Me.

John 17:23

Questions for Reflection

1. How do we as Christians from different denominations see ourselves as united in Christ?

2. In what ways can we live as Christ's ambassadors in the world today?

3. What poems, songs and pictures remind us of Christian unity?

4. What are some of the fears of identity and change that creep into our thoughts when we are called to live as a community?

Note on Authorship of Ephesians:- The Epistle clearly states Paul as the author (Eph 1:1), there is no use pointlessly arguing of other authors.