What is the meaning of Ephesians 4:14? Then we will no longer be infants Paul pictures a church family that has grown past spiritual babyhood. Infants are precious, yet they lack strength, discernment, and stability. God’s goal is maturity—people who know His Word, reflect Christ’s character, and contribute to the body’s health (Ephesians 4:13). • Hebrews 5:13–14 contrasts “everyone who lives on milk” with those who eat “solid food” and “have their senses trained to distinguish good from evil.” • 1 Peter 2:2 urges believers to “crave pure spiritual milk” so they can “grow up” into salvation. Growth is not optional; it is the normal outcome of abiding in Christ and receiving sound teaching. Tossed about by the waves Without maturity, believers can be as helpless as a small boat on stormy seas—always reacting, never grounded. • James 1:6 warns that “the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.” • In Matthew 14:30–31 Peter begins to sink when he takes his eyes off Jesus. The antidote is a steady gaze on Christ and consistent intake of Scripture, which anchors the heart when circumstances surge. And carried around by every wind of teaching Winds change direction; so do fads in doctrine. Paul envisions believers lifted off their moorings by whatever new idea blows through the church. • 1 John 4:1 says, “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God.” • 2 Timothy 4:3–4 foresees a time when people “gather around them teachers to suit their own desires.” Stability comes from comparing every message with the whole counsel of God’s Word, accepting what is true and discarding what contradicts Scripture. And by the clever cunning of men in their deceitful scheming False teachers often appear polished, persuasive, and even spiritual. Paul exposes the motive behind the mask: deliberate trickery. • 2 Corinthians 11:13–15 reveals “false apostles, deceitful workers” who masquerade as servants of righteousness. • Colossians 2:8 cautions, “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception.” Believers guard against such schemes by knowing Scripture thoroughly, walking in the Spirit, and staying accountable within a healthy local church. summary Ephesians 4:14 paints a vivid contrast between spiritual infants and mature disciples. God intends His people to be settled, Scripture-anchored, and discerning—unmoved by shifting teachings or manipulative voices. As we grow in Christ, receive solid doctrine, and stay rooted in biblical truth, we stand firm amid every wave and wind that blows. |
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