When I think of the word “conversation” I think of a discourse between at least two people. When considering our conversation as expressed in God’s Word, it refers to one’s manner of life and character – one’s behavior and general actions accompanied by attitudes.
Ephesians 4 primarily deals with those things which create unity among believers and those things which cause division. So many things pull at the affections of those who follow Christ – theological issues – worldly pursuits – human philosophies – political associations – and, physical attractions.
Divisions may come from any number of unguarded areas in our lives. Taken to an extreme, we may divide over which brand of soft drink is best – which auto manufacturer has the best quality vehicle – which college or university we would fight for – and, the list goes on.
Such divisions among those who claim the name of Christ Jesus grieve God’s Spirit because these divisions engender:
1. Bitterness (that which produces bitter fruit),
2. Wrath (passionate fierceness),
3. Anger (desire for harm),
4. Clamour (noisome outcry),
5. Evil speaking (maliciously hateful words)
6. Malice (desire to see someone hurt),
These things should never enter into the mind or heart of a true believer. When found they should immediately be repented of and abandoned. Within the body of Christ, no believer should allow these sinful attitudes and expressions to identify us. Our lives as believers should be such that exemplify the character of the One we serve.
Paul sums up this chapter by giving to us what is expected.
We are expected to be kind one to another. The word “kind” (chrēstos) speaks more than of a cute smile and a tipping of the hat. It requires action toward another that is profitable to them – something virtuous and pleasant.
We are expected to be tenderhearted. The word “tenderhearted” (eusplagchnos) speaks of being compassionate toward another – easy to be entreated. It requires a deep patience which allows ourselves to spend and be spent for those who are in need or for those less fortunate.
We are expected to forgive one another. The word “forgiving” (charízomai) speaks of showing deference to someone – to make a show of kindness in respect of another – to give or bestow a thing willingly. The implication is that we are do something personally (not farming it out to a florist or caterer) that will bestow a blessing upon another.
How are we to do this? Paul is writing to believers (See Ephesians 1.1 where the epistle is addressed to the “saints – redeemed ones) explaining that we are to do in the same manner as God has done toward us. “Hath forgiven” is something God did at a singular point for which He will never revisit the process. In other words, once and for all, Christ’s work on the Cross was accomplished completely.
By maintaining our focus upon Christ, we have opportunity to disagree without being disagreeable and to live in peace with each other according to love.
“Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.” II Corinthians 13.11
“Let brotherly love continue.”Hebrews 13.1
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