So That the Body of Christ May Be Built Up

“So Christ Himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip His people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.” ~Ephesians 4:11-12

These “occupations” are unique - they choose you, not the other way around. They call you with an intensity that cannot be ignored, even if you try (think Jonah). They are not 9-5, they are continuous and all-consuming.

My grandfather was a pastor - but it was years after the initial nudge. He was newly married and didn’t think that he would be able to support a wife on a clergy salary. But as time went one, it was clear that he was unsettled and unhappy with work. Finally, my grandmother encouraged him to follow his calling. She recalls a ‘night and day difference’ once he listened to the voice of the Holy Spirit. I know he had an impact on many people and that was Christ’s intent.

This passage goes on… “until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God [and continues with verse 15-16]….Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into Him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. “

Is this an accurate picture of Christianity today? Or of our respective churches or even our families?? Unity is of utmost importance to God. Working TOGETHER. Love is the noun and verb, the subject and object. When the Lord is present, hearts are open and this is possible. Those joints stop creaking, the bones stop aching and the body functions as designed. The body of Christ, who is our head.

“So that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” ~Romans 15:6

Have a blessed day!

Bonnie
Blessed Be Boutique

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