What does it mean for the body to be "nourished and knit together"? Setting the Context - Colossians 2:19: “...and not holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body, nourished and knit together by its joints and ligaments, grows with a growth that is from God.” - Paul contrasts those drifting into human philosophies with believers firmly connected to Christ, the Head. - The “body” is every believer, locally and universally, functioning as one living organism. Key Phrase in Colossians 2:19 - “Nourished” – life-sustaining supply coming from Christ. - “Knit together” – divinely woven unity that makes the Church a single, coordinated body. - Both actions flow from “the Head,” underscoring our absolute dependence on Jesus for health and cohesion. Understanding “Nourished” - Christ continually feeds the body through His Word (Matthew 4:4; John 6:63). - Spiritual nourishment produces growth “that is from God,” not manufactured by human programs. - It involves: • Daily intake of Scripture (Psalm 1:2-3). • Ongoing work of the Spirit illuminating truth (John 16:13). • Faithful preaching and teaching (2 Timothy 4:2). Understanding “Knit Together” - The Greek term implies joints being firmly connected, preventing dislocation. - Unity arises from shared life in Christ, not mere organization (Ephesians 4:3-6). - It expresses itself through: • Mutual love (John 13:34-35). • Coordinated service where every part matters (1 Corinthians 12:18-27). • Willing submission to Christ’s direction (Ephesians 5:23-24). How Nourishment and Unity Happen 1. Holding fast to the Head—personal and corporate devotion to Christ. 2. Receiving the Word—regular, sound doctrine that feeds and aligns. 3. Exercising spiritual gifts—each member serving, thus strengthening connection points. 4. Practicing biblical love—bearing one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). 5. Guarding against false teaching—protecting purity keeps the body healthy (Titus 1:9). Practical Implications for Believers Today - Stay tethered to Christ first; every ministry effort flows from Him. - Value every member; even unseen “ligaments” are crucial. - Pursue teaching that faithfully expounds Scripture, not trends. - Engage in accountable relationships; unity deepens when believers share life. - Expect genuine growth—numerical and spiritual—as God supplies life through the Head. Supporting Scriptures - John 15:5 – “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” - Ephesians 4:15-16 – The body “grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” - Acts 2:42-47 – Early Church model of nourishment (apostles’ teaching) and being knit together (fellowship). - 1 Peter 2:2 – “Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation.” - Psalm 133:1 – “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!” |
    |