Building Up the Body of Christ
Once again emphasizing the collective nature of the church and the collective responsibility of every Christian, Paul says that every saint should be equipped “for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” No congregation should see itself as having only one, or even a handful of “ministers.” Ministers are not just paid staff members. Every member of a congregation should see himself or herself as a minister, with the goal of making “the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.” When each part of the body is working “properly,” love and growth will be the result. )Scripture: Ephesians 4:1-16)