Insights Into the Power of Unity: Ephesians 4:16

 "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 4:16, KJV). https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/Ephesians-4-16

Greetings,

The concept behind gardening and farming is that it is vital that the irrigation hoses are maintained and joined correctly. "If there is an obstruction in the water output, the flow of water will be disrupted." causing the hoses to burst. Improper maintenance of the hoses and connections can lead to leaks, resulting in a lack of water supply to the plants' commonly grown areas, ultimately hindering the growth and productivity of the plants. 

It's essential to ensure proper maintenance of the hoses to prevent such instances from occurring. Likewise, as appropriate connections are vital in farming and gardening, we must remain sufficiently connected to Christ and our brothers and sisters in Christ. 

The imagery suggests that growing and working together has benefits, namely growth. Just as important is that the Gospel be taught and spoken in truth. Without this acknowledgment, the Gospel becomes polluted and not understandable to all. We must refrain from deceiving those we minister to through error and immaturity. Also, verse 15 of Ephesians states, "But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head even Christ." 

The truth we share is found only in Jesus Christ. 

Our continuance in the growth and knowledge of Christ produces an understanding of how significant each member is in the body of Christ. In essence, the goal of working together is unity.

 

How is this accomplished?

 

Through Grace given, each member of the body of Christ has been given spiritual gifts (Romans 12:6-8) for "perfecting of the saints, for the work of ministry; for the of the body of Christ" Ephesians 4:12. The Word of God says at least one gift. However, with that one spiritual gift, our responsibility is to discover your gift and minister in how the Spirit empowers us. As we mature spiritually and become more like Christ, our relationships with other believers strengthen, allowing for growth as each person contributes (vs. 16). 

What person ministering the Word of God does not want to experience growth? 

Even if we do not hold a leadership position in the church, such as a pastor or elder, we still play a crucial part in the body of Christ. We all can contribute towards the growth and building up of others in our unity through Christ.

Question: What would you say to someone who argues that one can have a strong relationship with Christ without being involved in a community of believers?

The Power of Unity,

Minister Sylvia Joyner

You Will Come Through This Too and Be Stronger!!!

 

Malachi 3:1-3

The Lord declared through the prophet Malachi: "Behold, I send my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me. And the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple; and the messenger of the covenant in whom you delight, behold, he is coming, says the LORD of hosts. But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? For he is like a refiner's fire and like fullers' soap. He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, and they will bring offerings in righteousness to the LORD" (Malachi 3:1-3, ESV).

Do your life's battles (conflict, struggles, clashes) seem never-ending? 

I agree, and it's an overpowering experience we all experience.

However, God's word provides the secure anchor needed to see beyond the battles that, if left unchecked, will uproot our faith. I have learned through each action encountered they are growth opportunities. I know, I know, battles, growth, and opportunities. It seems like an oxymoron.

Think about the last battle you encountered; what did you learn?

What happens in the process of growth? As indicated by Malachi 3:1-3 referenced, in refining metals, the metal is heated until it melts, which releases the impurities from it, and then skimmed off, rising to the surface, leaving the pure metal. Without this action of skimming and melting, there could be no purifying. Hence, this action of impurities skimmed off the top allows for the worker's reflection to manifest. So it is with us; as God purifies us, his reflection in our life will become increasingly apparent to those around us. 

So why is refining an essential process for growth? 

As mentioned earlier, opportunities provide levels of growth needed for areas of purifying. Opportunities to grow are everywhere. Ephesians 5:16 says, "Making the best use of time, because the days are evil" (ESV). And Hebrews 4:7 emphasizes, "Again, he limited a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts" (KJV).

 The scripture asks: But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? God is coming back for a prepared people devoid of impurities.

Is God's reflection in your life increasingly apparent to those around you? 

Stronger in the Lord,

Minister Sylvia Joyner