As we pursue ways to edify one another as Christians, let us understand that it is really the Lord Himself working through us to edify His own people. Keeping that in perspective keeps us from boasting in ourselves. We are to edify one another. Edify literally means, “to build a house.” That is exactly what we are doing when we pour our life into others, we are edifying them, or literally building on the Lord’s house (1 Corinthians 3:10-17). How does God bring about edification in the Church?
- Through gifting of the body of Christ – (Ephesians 4:11-12)
- Through each member of the body of Christ doing their part – (Ephesians 4:13-16)
- Through kind and graceful words to one another – (Ephesians 4:29)
- Through bearing the scruples (weaknesses) of our brethren – (Romans 15:1-6)
- Through the Word of God (Scriptures) – (Acts 20:31-32)
But have you ever wondered what can hinder the edification (building up) of the Church?
- Carnality in our faith – (1 Corinthians 3:1-4)
- Teaching and listening to false doctrine – (1 Timothy 1:3-4)
- Friendship with the world – (James 4:1-4)
Let’s be careful to spend our day (days) in edifying the body of Christ, not tearing down by complaining or pointing a finger, but in love for His Church building her up.