Ephesians 4:15-16; KJV
[15] but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: [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.
Colossians 2:2-3; TPT
[2] I am contending for you that your hearts will be wrapped in the comfort of heaven and woven together into love’s fabric. This will give you access to all the riches of God as you experience the revelation of God’s great mystery—Christ. [3] For our spiritual wealth is in him, like hidden treasure waiting to be discovered—heaven’s wisdom and endless riches of revelation knowledge.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7, TPT
[4] Love is large and incredibly patient. Love is gentle and consistently kind to all. It refuses to be jealous when blessing comes to someone else. Love does not brag about one’s achievements nor inflate its own importance. [5] Love does not traffic in shame and disrespect, nor selfishly seek its own honor. Love is not easily irritated or quick to take offense. [6] Love joyfully celebrates honesty and finds no delight in what is wrong. [7] Love is a safe place of shelter, for it never stops believing the best for others. Love never takes failure as defeat, for it never gives up.
The building of the church depends on love as the bonding element. Ephesians 4:15-16 describes the church as a body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, in love. Love is not merely an emotion but the divine nature expressed through us as we abide in Christ.
We teach and emphasize that love unites believers and provides the environment for spiritual growth. Colossians 2:2-3 shows that being knit together in love leads us to a deeper understanding of Christ. Love also governs our behavior toward one another, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, which describes love’s enduring qualities.
When the church lives in and expresses Christ’s love, it grows and builds itself up in Him. This love is a testimony of God’s presence among His people.
Thought of the day/Main points – Love is the key to building the church.
– Being knit together in love leads to spiritual understanding and growth.
– The church’s testimony is rooted in the love of Christ
Prayer Confessions:
Lord, fill my heart with Your love, that I may love others as You love me.
Knit us together in love as Your church, building us up into Your fullness.
Let our love be a testimony of Your presence among us, Amen.