Most of us think maturity is about knowing more.
Paul says it is about growing up.
Ephesians 4:15
But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.
The goal is not that we become sharper debaters.
The goal is that we resemble the Head.
Truth by itself can be sharp as winter air. Clear. Cutting. Precise. But stand in it too long without warmth and you begin to shut down.
Love by itself can feel warm and inviting. But if there is no light, you start bumping into furniture.
God never separates what He joined together.
Truth gives direction.
Love gives endurance.
Think of a forge. Metal is shaped by both heat and design. Heat alone only softens. Design alone only measures. But together, they form something strong and useful.
So it is in the body of Christ.
Ephesians 4:16
From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
Growth is not random. It is joined. Compacted. Supplied.
Every joint supplies something. Every ligament holds something steady. Remove one, and motion becomes jerky. Ignore one, and strain follows.
When someone speaks truth without tenderness, the body tightens.
When someone offers affection without clarity, the body drifts.
But when truth is wrapped in love, and love is anchored in truth, the whole body strengthens itself.
You are not here by accident.
You are not an extra piece.
You are a joint in the design.
And the fire that shapes us is not argument or sentiment. It is Christ Himself. Full of grace. Full of truth.
If we stay near that fire, we will grow up.
Not just informed.
Formed.
Leave a Reply