Physiology and theology

Instead, by speaking the truth in a spirit of love, we must grow up in every way to Christ, who is the head. Under his control all the different parts of the body fit together, and the whole body is held together by every joint with which it is provided. So when each separate part works as it should, the whole body grows and builds itself up through love. (verses 15,16)

Read Ephesians 4:1-16

Basic physiology informs us that there are at least three key parts to a healthy body. The head is essential; without it the body has no direction or purpose. There are also the ligaments, which hold the parts of the body together and coordinate their movements. Then there is the blood, pumped by a strong heart, which circulates through the body, fuelling its efforts and helping it to grow.

Basic theology informs us that there are at least three key parts to a healthy church. Again, the head, Jesus Christ, is essential. He provides the church with teaching and leadership. There are also the people of the church, who are tied together by faith and commitment, and their purpose is to do God’s work. Then there is the power of God’s love, flowing powerfully through the church, building up its members with assurances of forgiveness and hope, motivating them to their own acts of love towards others.

That’s how the church works. And that’s where God has placed me.

Lord, thank you for my family, the church. Help me to play my part in it and to follow your directions, doing the work you want me to do. Amen.

By Richard Hauser, in “God’s Peace for each day” (LCA, Openbook Publishers (2005)

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