Paul sees an alienated humanity being reconciled, a fractured humanity being united, even a new humanity being created. It is a magnificent vision.

Starts with ‘I beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called.

What is this new society?

First it is one people.

Second, it is a holy people, distinct from the world.

They must show their unity. Show their purity.

Depends on the charity of our character and conduct (v.2)
• ‘Humble’ recognition of the worth and value of other people
• ‘Gentle’ the golden mean’ Aristotle
• ‘Bearing’ mutual tolerance
• ‘Love’ is the crown and sum of all virtues

It comes from our unity to God (v.3-6)
• One faith
• One body
• One baptism

It is enriched by the diversity of our gifts (v.7-12)
• The giver of the gifts is the ascended Jesus
• The gifts are varied
• The purpose of the gifts is service
• The Church is the body of Christ, every member of which has a ‘distinctive’ function

It demands the maturity of our growth (v.13-16)
• It grows in truth and love

God’s new society is to display charity, unity, diversity and growing maturity.

Paul’s primary concern is not for structures.

He begins and ends with love.