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NASB | Ephesians 4:12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Ephesians 4:12 [and He did this] to fully equip and perfect the saints (God's people) for works of service, to build up the body of Christ [the church]; |
Subject: How is the body built? |
Bible Note: Thanks for the reply EdB! I am delighted that you have chosen to think on these things. I know that there are issues that "divide" the Forum at times, so it is my desire to not be inflammatory in my questions. As I think about this, I am wondering if we confuse sanctification with "building the church?" Obviously, the Body of Christ will be stunted if the individual members are not growing, but should we be more thoughtful about separating the two processes? What about times when we are not in agreement. I think of the sharp disagreement between Paul and Barnabas (the encourager!) over John Mark (Acts 15:39). Did this have a weakening impact upon the church, or did the separation that occurred contibute to church growth elsewhere? Can we have unity without uniformity? I am bothered by this because I do not always agree with the "theology" I hear from the pulpit. How can I challenge a teaching without being divisive or being labelled as one who "breaks the unity" of the body? mommapbs PS: If you prefer not to tackle these questions, let me know and I'll re-post! |