Taken from a sermon by George Wright, Senior Pastor, Shades Mountain Baptist Church
“I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love.”
Ephesians 4:1-2
The Gospel isn’t just a message to believe– it’s a mission to live. When you trust Jesus, you’re not only saved from sin; you’re sent into the world with purpose. The Christian life is more than attending church or checking spiritual boxes– it’s about “living sent,” living each day on mission for Christ.
Paul wrote these words from a Roman prison, yet he spoke with joy and conviction. He reminded the believers in Ephesus that their faith was not to be hidden but lived out in a way that reflected the One who called them. “Walk worthy of the calling,” he said. That’s not a suggestion; it’s a command for every follower of Jesus.
As pastor J.D. Greear put it, “The Great Commission is not a calling for some; it is a mandate for all.”
We don’t have to wait for a special sign from heaven. The call has already been given: Go and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). The question isn’t if you’re called– it’s how you’ll respond.
So, how do we walk in a manner worthy of that calling? Paul gives the blueprint: “with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love.” These aren’t personality traits– they’re the very character of Christ.
Humility and Gentleness – (Matthew 11:28–29)
Jesus described Himself as “gentle and humble in heart.” Humility means valuing others above yourself. Gentleness is strength under control– using your influence to lift others, not yourself. As Timothy Keller once said, “Gospel humility is not thinking more of myself or less of myself—it’s thinking of myself less.”
George Wright, Sr., my grandfather, modeled that kind of humility better than anyone I’ve known. He lived a full and faithful life, but what made him extraordinary was how he made others feel. Whether you were a friend, stranger, or child, he genuinely cared and listened. You left his presence encouraged because he lived with gospel humility and love.
Patience – (1 Timothy 1:15–16)
If patience is hard for you, remember God’s patience toward you. When we shift our focus from how others frustrate us to how graciously God has treated us, true patience begins to grow.
Bearing with One Another in Love – (1 John 4:10–12)
Love is what holds it all together. When we choose to love people the way Christ loves us, the world gets a glimpse of God’s heart through us.
So what does it mean to live sent?
It means living surrendered to the Holy Spirit, submitted to God’s direction, and willing to go wherever He leads.
The mission isn’t for a select few– it’s for all of us. The question is, are you walking in a way worthy of your calling?
DIG DEEPER
Read “If You Love Jesus, Care for Others” by Bryant Wright
