Chapter
1 2 3 4 5 6
Verse

Ephesians 4:4

ESV There is one body and one Spirit — just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call —
NIV There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called;
NASB There is one body and one Spirit, just as you also were called in one hope of your calling;
CSB There is one body and one Spirit —just as you were called to one hope at your calling—
NLT For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future.
KJV There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;
NKJV There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling;

What does Ephesians 4:4 mean?

This verse begins a classic repetition of "ones," forming a well-known passage from the New Testament, running through verse 6. By repeating the concept of "one-ness," "unity," and so forth, this section emphasizes the closeness and harmony we are meant to demonstrate as believers. First, the unity Paul refers to in verse 3 requires a common focus as a united body. In other words, there are not actually different churches, but one true, universal church of Christ. Every saved believer in Christ is a member of this one body, even if they consider themselves part of some secondary denomination.

Second, the Holy Spirit is the one and only spiritual force which unites all believers in Christ.

Third, all believers are called to the same hope of a future eternity with Christ (1 Peter 1:3; 3:15). Paul discussed this calling in Ephesians 1:4, 18 as well as the very beginning of this chapter.

Interestingly, all three parts of the Trinity are again in view. This verse mentions the Spirit. Verse 5 mentions the Lord Jesus. Verse 6 includes the Father. Paul's emphasis on all three persons of the triune God as equally divine has been developed multiple times in this letter.
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