humble and healed

The Beauty of Humble Community

Please open your Bible to Ephesians 4:1-16. Highlight the word “one” when you read through the passage.

Paul is writing from prison (v.1)—and still calling for unity. He knows the real chains are the ones that divide. In a world full of hurt, community can feel risky. But in Christ, it’s also redemptive.

Verses 1–6 call us to live worthy of our calling—with humility, gentleness, patience, and love. We’re reminded: we are one body, one hope, one faith, one baptism, one God. The repetition of "one" is no accident—unity is the heartbeat of healing. The reason why we can feel hurt is because we have lost the unity with someone. However, we cannot allow these moments to define how the Holy Spirit is keeping the bond of peace between us and God. 

Verses 7–10 reminds us that Jesus ascended and descended—He’s not distant. He reigns over every realm, having conquered death and sin. He came low and now lifts us high. The other gods and goddesses were limited in power (according to the myths recorded about them). The false gods and goddesses could either ascend or descend, but they could not do both. Jesus proved His supremacy by being able to ascend and descend and conquer His Victory. We are defined by the God that has declared His Victory over every power, and He is sharing His power with His Believers through the Holy Spirit. 

Verses 11–16 speaks of how Christ is blessing the church—leaders and shepherds given to build up the Body. The apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers are Christ’s gift to the church. All of us are called to grow up into Christ, the head. Every part matters. Every wound healed helps the whole.

How many times did you highlight the word “one?”

Why does the feeling of being hurt make me resist community?

To learn more, please download “Healing through Belonging".