4:1
There is a very clear split in Ephesians between the “theological” section and the “practical application” section, with half the letter on each. Though it should be noted that there is plenty of theology in the latter half as well! This is a fairly common pattern in Paul’s letters, and there is an important point. The gospel does lead to changed lives, but the foundation for this is what God has done in Christ, not in our trying harder. Now we do put effort in, as the latter sections of Paul’s letters make clear, but it is built upon the foundation of what Christ has done.
“I therefore ...” What Paul is going to say is built upon the foundation of Christ and His work. So Paul urges them to live a life worthy of their calling, “to which you have been called”. We have nit just been saved, rather we have been saved for a purpose.
4:2
“With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love”. These are the qualities or attitudes with which we are called to live a life worthy of our calling. The goal and the way we get there are equally important. We are definitely not to seek to attain the goal with selfish and ruthless ambition. We are also to bear with one another. We are all sinful and weak human beings, so there will be times when all of us are really struggling, we need to be patient with one another in those times.
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