Blog

In this sermon, we explored Paul’s powerful call in Ephesians 4:1-16 to grow together as a church into spiritual maturity. The passage challenges us to reflect on three key points:

1. We Have the Life of the Trinity Within Us

Paul reminds us of an astonishing truth: as Christians, the life of the triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—dwells within us. Through faith in Jesus, we are united with Him as members of His body. The same power that raised Christ from the dead is now at work in us, shaping and transforming us.

This reality sets Christianity apart. It’s not about following rules or being “good people.” It’s about being made new—filled with the life of God. Yet, while we carry this incredible gift within us, Paul also points to a sobering truth: we are still spiritually immature.

2. We Are Still Spiritually Immature

Though we have God’s life in us, we begin our faith journey as spiritual infants. Paul says that spiritual babies lack discernment, are self-centered, and are unsteady. Like physical infants, they struggle to distinguish good teaching from bad, are easily hurt or offended, and lack consistency in their faith.

But God doesn’t want us to remain as infants. His desire is for us to grow into spiritual maturity, becoming more like Christ. Paul highlights the role of the church in this process, explaining that pastors, teachers, and evangelists are called to equip believers for ministry so that the entire body of Christ is built up.

Spiritual maturity isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about becoming people who are discerning, selfless, and steady in their walk with God. It’s about reflecting the character of Christ in our lives.

3. How Do We Grow? Unity in the Church

Paul shows us that spiritual growth doesn’t happen in isolation. Growth happens in the context of the church, as believers deepen their relationships with one another and build unity in the faith. In verses 15-16, Paul uses the image of a body, explaining that the church grows “as each part does its work.”

Key to this growth is “speaking the truth in love.” Truth without love can be harsh and damaging, while love without truth fails to challenge us to grow. Both are essential for spiritual maturity. When we speak truth in love, we build each other up, just as Christ does for us.

Jesus is the ultimate example of truth and love. At the cross, He showed us the truth of our sinfulness and the depth of His love for us. This Gospel truth transforms how we relate to one another, creating a community where honesty and grace go hand in hand.

Application for the Church

Paul’s message challenges us to reflect on our own spiritual growth and our role in the church:

Be Patient with Each Other’s Growth
Spiritual maturity takes time. Just as physical babies need time to develop, so do spiritual infants. Let’s be patient with one another, but also challenge ourselves to grow beyond where we are.

Commit to Community
Spiritual growth doesn’t happen alone. We need deep, meaningful relationships with other believers where truth and love are shared. If Bethel is your church, remember that you need this community, and this community needs you.

Build Unity and Encourage Growth
Let’s strive to be a church that’s committed to each other’s growth. By speaking the truth in love, encouraging one another, and working together, we grow into the fullness of Christ—bringing glory to God.

As we reflect on this passage, let’s embrace Paul’s call to “walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which we have been called.” Let’s grow together, deepening our relationships with God and with one another, until we reflect the unity, love, and maturity that Paul describes. This is how we become a church that glorifies God and lives out His calling.