Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ…For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. Ephesians 4:3-16
All are equal. No masters (only Christ) “Whoever exalts himself shall be abased.” We are never to have any ear for any other voice or word than His. The church is subject unto Christ in everything. Subject, not sovereign; servant, not ruler; to obey, not command; obey Christ, not fallible man. The church is made up of God's elect. All converted, sanctified, with repentance towards God. Faith in the word of our Lord Jesus Christ. Holiness of life and conversation, they hate sin and love Christ. They all worship with one heart, led by one Spirit, all builded upon the one Foundation, all draw religion from one book, all joined at one great Centre, all say with one heart “Hallelujah”, all respond with one heart and voice, 'Amen and amen.” The church is not dependent on ministers on earth, does not depend on church membership, baptism, the Lord's supper (although valued) e.g. the thief on the cross. One great Head, Shepherd and chief Bishop – Jesus Christ. He alone admits members. Let a man repent and believe the gospel and he is at that moment a member. No minister can prevent him, or disfellowship him if faithful. If members only left with the presence of Christ and His Spirit they cannot die (forever). Only the church with true unity and all spiritual analogies of one mind will fulfil Christ’s plan.
