As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

Ephesians 4:1 – 2

Paul is not a prisoner of mighty Rome, he is the prisoner for the Lord.  Not of the Lord but for the Lord.  He is in the embrace of God’s love and forgiveness, a prisoner of grace!  It is a place of freedom, joy and true affection.  Paul is not complaining, but is exalting the wonderful provision that all have in Christ Jesus.

Paul’s calling to follow Jesus dominated his life.  He knew its challenges and joys.  But he encourages the believers in Ephesus who are also called, to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.  They had the same calling that Paul had and that we have today, no matter where we are or who we are.  Paul urged the followers of Jesus to live their lives consistent with their calling, that was, of course, with mercy and grace.

He goes on to explain how that will be, a word of advice and encouragement to all of us who have become disciples of Jesus Christ.  We should be completely humble and gentle.  Not vindictive or critical, but bearing the Cross of Christ in humility.

Paul goes on that life in Christ is a life of patience, not of pride, demanding rights, etc.  It is a life of looking out for our brothers and sisters in Christ, encouraging one another because the way is difficult.  We are those who are bearing with one another in love.  The way of holiness is a walk with other believers, all bound together by the same blood of Christ, a love that goes beyond all human loves.  We need one another desperately.  This is yet another provision from God himself.