How can we contribute to the "growth" of the church in our context? Foundation Verse: Growth Rooted in Christ “From Him the whole body, fitted and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love through the work of each individual part.” (Ephesians 4:16) Key Observations from the Verse • Christ is the sole Source: “From Him.” • The church is an interdependent body: “fitted and held together.” • Love is the atmosphere: “builds itself up in love.” • Every believer has a role: “through the work of each individual part.” Why This Matters for Us • Growth is more than numbers; it is spiritual maturity and expanded witness (Colossians 2:19). • When each member functions, the whole body flourishes (1 Corinthians 12:27). • Neglect of our part stunts collective growth (1 Corinthians 12:21-22). Practical Ways We Contribute to Church Growth • Abide Daily in Christ – John 15:5: apart from Him we can do nothing. – Personal worship, Scripture intake, obedience keep us aligned with the Head. • Discover and Deploy Spiritual Gifts – Romans 12:4-6; 1 Peter 4:10: gifts are given “to serve one another.” – Take inventory, seek confirmation from mature believers, and step into service. • Cultivate Loving Relationships – Acts 2:42, 47: fellowship and favor preceded numerical growth. – Practice hospitality, intentional encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Serve Sacrificially – Galatians 5:13: “serve one another in love.” – Look for needs others overlook; be the “supporting ligament” that holds things together. • Proclaim the Gospel Clearly – Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8: every believer is sent. – Share personal testimony, invite others to gatherings, support missions. • Pray Persistently – Colossians 4:2-4; Ephesians 6:18: pray for open doors, boldness, and spiritual strength. – Corporate and individual prayer fuels supernatural growth (Acts 4:31). • Model Holy Living – Philippians 2:14-16; 1 Peter 2:12: a blameless life validates the message. – Repent quickly, pursue integrity, shine as lights in a crooked world. • Give Generously – 2 Corinthians 9:6-8: cheerful, abundant giving supplies ministry needs and sparks thanksgiving to God. – Time, talents, and treasures invested advance the gospel. Living It Out Today When we stay connected to Christ, love one another authentically, and each do our Spirit-empowered part, God causes the whole body to “grow and build itself up in love.” Our context may differ from first-century Ephesus, but the divine pattern remains unchanged—and the promise of growth is just as certain. |
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