Transformed to Reflect Christ: A Call to Live in Love and Light

Ephesians 4:1 begins with a bold call: “I urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called.” With these words, Paul transitions from explaining what we believe (chapters 1–3) to showing us how to live it out (chapters 4–6). It’s a powerful reminder that the Christian life is not just about believing the right things—it’s about living them. This is the progression from knowledge to wisdom. Knowledge is the acquisition of information and wisdom is the application of that information in our lives.

Unity in the Body of Christ

Paul begins by emphasizing unity in the church. He reminds us that we are one body, with one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God (Ephesians 4:4–6). Unity doesn’t mean uniformity. It means different people, gifts, and backgrounds coming together under Christ. Each believer has a part to play in building up the body in love (v. 16). Your gifts are not for yourself, but for the benefit of the church. This means we should be using our gifts to love and serve others. When we walk in humility, patience, and love, we reflect the character of Christ to the world.

Putting Off the Old Self

Paul challenges us to no longer walk as the world does, caught in the futility of their thinking. Instead, we are to put off the old self, which is corrupted by deceitful desires, and be renewed in the spirit of our minds (Ephesians 4:22–23). This is more than behavior modification—it’s heart transformation. Change takes work and dedication. It can be difficult to break habits of our old way of life and develop Godly habits that are pleasing to the Lord. However, God did not ask us to do this alone. He gave us the Holy Spirit to guide us and help us transform our hearts.

Paul gives practical examples of what this change looks like: stop lying and speak truth; replace unrighteous anger with forgiveness; stop stealing and instead work honestly so you can give generously. Even our words should be used to build up, not tear down (v. 29). This is what it means to live differently because of the Gospel.

Walk in Love, Light, and Wisdom

In chapter 5, Paul says plainly: “Be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love” (Ephesians 5:1–2). Our lives should reflect God’s sacrificial love, just like Christ who gave Himself up for us. When I think about imitating God, it seems like a task to big to conquer. But I have learned that I cannot let that keep me from giving my best effort everyday. Some days, I will mess us and and miss the mark. But with continual practice, I will improve.

He calls us to walk not just in love, but also in light—leaving behind impurity, greed, and darkness. As children of light, we are to live in a way that is pleasing to the Lord and exposes what is dark. Paul reminds us that “at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord” (Ephesians 5:8). That is a powerful identity shift. I am the Light of the Lord", so I need to align myself with that truth and my actions will follow.

Finally, we are urged to walk in wisdom—making the most of every opportunity, understanding God’s will, and living by the Spirit. Walking in wisdom comes from studying the Word of God. This must be a daily practice in our life in order to live in this fallen world.

Living the Transformed Life

Ephesians 4:1–5:20 paints a picture of a radically different life—one that is shaped not by the world, but by Christ. When we walk in unity, truth, love, light, and wisdom, we become evidence of the Gospel at work in real life. This is what it means to live a transformed life.

So, how is God calling you to walk differently this week? What part of your “old self” do you need to put off, and what “new self” is He inviting you to embrace? Comment and let us know how you need to change and what changes you have already made.

Let His light shine through you—and live the life you were called to live.

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