Week 5 | Day 3
GROW UP
Ephesians 4:1-16
In Ephesians 4:1–16, Paul turns from doctrine to daily living and urges believers to “walk in a manner worthy of the calling” they have received. We begin to learn that salvation isn’t the finish line; it’s the starting line for this thing called the Christian life. It’s the beginning of growth, intimacy, missional living, and Great Commission priority. It’s an invitation to maturity—marked by humility, gentleness, patience, and love. Still, unity in the body of Christ isn’t automatic; it must be diligently preserved. We are one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father. This shared foundation creates both responsibility and opportunity.
We also learn that Jesus has given gifts to the church—leaders who equip the saints for the work of ministry—so that the body may be built up. The goal is clear: maturity unto mission. Thus, we’re not meant to remain spiritual children, tossed by waves of false teaching or emotional instability. Instead, we’re called to grow up in all aspects into Christ, who is the head. As each member functioning faithfully so that the whole body grows, building itself up in love. This means that spiritual growth is both personal and communal.
We also learn that Jesus has given gifts to the church—leaders who equip the saints for the work of ministry—so that the body may be built up. The goal is clear: maturity unto mission. Thus, we’re not meant to remain spiritual children, tossed by waves of false teaching or emotional instability. Instead, we’re called to grow up in all aspects into Christ, who is the head. As each member functioning faithfully so that the whole body grows, building itself up in love. This means that spiritual growth is both personal and communal.
Application
Live Worthy of Your Calling
Grace calls us to a life that reflects the character of Jesus. To grow in this manner begins with intentional pursuit of knowing Jesus and walking in obedience under the guiding influence of the Holy Spirit in accord with God’s Word. God’s Word is God’s will—and the Holy Spirit’s job is to help us to walk in step with truth.
Guard Unity with Humility
Pride fractures what Christ unites—and since we can’t live the Christ-life independently of the Holy Spirit and one another, we have to daily seek to strengthen these relationships with all humility.
Cherish the Gift of Spiritual Leadership
While every believer has a role in building up the body, God has called particular men and women to provide spiritual leadership and influence over you. Cherish these individuals and seek to make their ministry a joy by desiring the things of God, seeking first God’s kingdom, and participating in the Great Commission.
Pursue Doctrinal Stability
Maturity protects against deception. So, strive daily to ground yourself in God’s truth to avoid being tossed by error. Seek to know WHY you believe WHAT you believe.
Grow in Love as You Grow in Truth
Faith that works doesn’t just talk the talk—it walks the walk. Truth without love wounds; love without truth misleads—to be healthy, we need to both truth and love working together in us, being expressed through us.
Grace calls us to a life that reflects the character of Jesus. To grow in this manner begins with intentional pursuit of knowing Jesus and walking in obedience under the guiding influence of the Holy Spirit in accord with God’s Word. God’s Word is God’s will—and the Holy Spirit’s job is to help us to walk in step with truth.
Guard Unity with Humility
Pride fractures what Christ unites—and since we can’t live the Christ-life independently of the Holy Spirit and one another, we have to daily seek to strengthen these relationships with all humility.
Cherish the Gift of Spiritual Leadership
While every believer has a role in building up the body, God has called particular men and women to provide spiritual leadership and influence over you. Cherish these individuals and seek to make their ministry a joy by desiring the things of God, seeking first God’s kingdom, and participating in the Great Commission.
Pursue Doctrinal Stability
Maturity protects against deception. So, strive daily to ground yourself in God’s truth to avoid being tossed by error. Seek to know WHY you believe WHAT you believe.
Grow in Love as You Grow in Truth
Faith that works doesn’t just talk the talk—it walks the walk. Truth without love wounds; love without truth misleads—to be healthy, we need to both truth and love working together in us, being expressed through us.
Closing Prayer
Father, help me walk in a manner worthy of the calling You have given me. Grow me into maturity so I am not unstable but rooted in truth and love. Teach me to value unity and faithfully use the gifts You have entrusted to me. Shape me into a part of the body that strengthens others and reflects Christ. In Jesus’ name, amen.