INCREASE OF THE BODY
By John Fredericksen
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 4:16
How does a local
church and individuals within the local church continue to grow? Most Christian
book stores have manuals with programs and contests that the writer assures will
bring growth; but the real answer is not in human wisdom or fleshly activities,
even when done with the best of motives. God's formula for corporate and
individual growth in the Body is found in Ephesians 4:16.
Once again, the
Apostle makes the comparison between the human body and the Body of Christ to
parallel our instructions, First, we must understand that "the whole body
[is] fitly joined together." God's marvelous wisdom has properly placed
the foot, the head, the eye, and all the parts of the body in exactly the right
place to function at its very best. This is also true for believers. In His
wisdom, God sovereignly leads us to the place where we best fit in and where He
can best use us in the cause of Christ. Secondly, we must see ourselves as
being "compacted by that which every joint supplieth." In the human
body, the joints connect different parts of the body together so each vein,
each muscle, and each limb functions as intended. Every saint is to serve in a
similar capacity. Through the use of our spiritual gifts, we are to supply a
needed aspect of ministry which enhances the needs of other believers. Thirdly,
we need to understand that it is ONLY
when "EVERY PART" of the
Body of Christ is functioning in this way that growth' is sustained. No one is
excluded from this needed exchange of mutual ministry. No member is too obscure
or feeble to contribute something that will benefit others. Therefore, when
each of us seeks to edify other believers, this "effectual working ... [is
what] maketh increase of the body."
If you or your
church are not growing, perhaps it is because you are not doing the part God
would have you do in the work of the ministry.
Dispensational Chart
How
God Saves Men
Believing
Christ DIED, that’s HISTORY.
Believing
Christ DIED for YOU SINS and Rose again that’s SALVATION.
Read
Romans 1:16, Romans 10:9-10 and 1. Corinthians 15:1-4
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