Ephesians 4:16 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.

Continuing on where we left off yesterday, identifying our place in a church body is performed by the love that abides within us. Love edifies itself because the head, Jesus Christ, knows best how each part will edify those connected parts.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words defines Edification used as a verb in this way: Edification, Edify, Edifying: lit., “to build a house”

(a) usually signifies “to build,” whether literally, or figuratively; the present participle, lit., “the (ones) building,” is used as a noun, “the builders,” (in some mss.; the most authentic have the noun oikodomos); 

(b) is used metaphorically, in the sense of “edifying,” promoting the spiritual growth and development of character of believers, by teaching or by example, suggesting such spiritual progress as the result of patient labor. It is said

(1) of the effect of this upon local churches,

(2) of the individual action of believers towards each other,

(3) of an individual in regard to himself, where it is translated “emboldened,” the Apostle uses it with pathetic irony, of the action of a brother in “building up” his brother who had a weak conscience, causing him to compromise his scruples; “strengthened,” or “confirmed,” would be suitable renderings.

We must not enter in to a new church meeting with an attitude of what we can do for this church or what can this church do for me. We should recognize that the abiding love of Christ will work in each member, including ourselves, to supply that which is needed to build upon what is already there in them and in us. We build together.

Ephesians 4:16 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.

Yesterday I made mention of being one part of the family of God. Here is another expression of inclusion where we should feel included in this family. Having moved because of a new job, a marriage, or any reason caused a change of churches, we will often look to see where we fit in with a new church.

Think as a Christian who is aware of this scripture in terms of finding a place within a new worship body. A church is a part of Christ but is not the whole body of Christ. More than a building, a church is an administration of the spirit, working in each member to cause unity, harmony, and effectual workings. As such these church administrations need members to fill roles to function.

When walking into a church for the first time, is there the sense of an open or closed membership? Do they make room for others? Do they want to get to know new comers? Do they share their space or try to close ranks around their comfort zone. That is a first indication of God being at work in that church. The very first indication in Ephesians 4:16 is fit. We cannot fit in if there is no room made available. Finding a place within this new or established church will always be the same. Those members will see where new comers fit if they are looking to complete their body.

I don’t trust men who walk into a church and announce with pride, “I am a (name it) and you should (claim it).” Name it and claim it personalities only look to themselves and their agendas. God will show gifts. Members will discover talent.