27 September 2025
“…for building itself up in love by the proper working of each individual part”.
Christ’s design for His church is both beautiful and practical. Growth comes as “each individual part” works properly. As Mark said, “From Him the body promotes the growth of the body for building itself up in love by the proper working of each individual part. This is the miracle of the body. The proper working of each individual part causes growth. Every ligament. Every joint. Every member. Working together. Working properly.” Christ is the source of growth, but He uses His people to bring it about. No one is useless. No one is redundant.
Paul’s picture is vivid. The body is “fitted and knit together by every supporting ligament.” Every joint matters. Every connection counts. Mark reminded us, “We’re not a one man show. We’re a whole body activity. And when we get it right we flourish. We’re alive. Things get exciting. And we grow.” A healthy church is not built on a few shoulders. It is built when every believer plays their part, no matter how visible or hidden that part may be.
This principle pushes against consumer Christianity. Many sit on the sidelines, expecting others to serve and build. But that is not Christ’s design. “Connected to Him we grow. We are built up. We work. Our growth is not self-generated. Our strength is not self-made. Our work is not self-powered. Everything flows from Jesus. The ascended Victor. The generous Giver. The supreme Head.” When each part functions as Christ intended, the church builds itself up in love, displaying the power of His life at work among His people.
You can participate in this miracle. Identify your part. Perhaps it is encouraging others, serving behind the scenes, teaching, praying, or giving. Every contribution matters. As Mark said earlier in the series, “This week, I want you to take a step. One step out of the stands and onto the field.” Start small, but start. The health of the body depends on the obedience of its members.
Parents, involve your children in this truth. Do a simple chore together as a family, like setting the table. Then talk about how much easier it was when everyone played their part. Remind them that Jesus designed His church to work the same way.
Discussion question: What is one way you can use your gifts to build up the body this week?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for placing me in Your body. Help me to work properly, in love, for the good of Your church. Use my part to build up Your people, for Your glory. Amen.
Read the sermon notes here.