Speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.  From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.

Ephesians 4:15, 16

Paul’s words are as true today as when he wrote them to the Ephesian believers of many tribes and cultures.  I must admit, as I read the phrase we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ, I find myself thinking that I will try to understand this sometime.  That time has come.

The Lord expects us, aided by Holy Spirit, to grow, continually and purposefully.  We are not artificial plants that represent the real ones.  We are the real plants, growing and reaching out, always on the move.  We never stop growing.  I am almost 90 years and still at it!

What is the object of this growth?  To become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.  Again, we are reminded of our calling, to become like Jesus, our head.  Is there a higher calling?  I think of none.  It is high, indeed, to become in every respect the mature body of Jesus.  Jesus is the BODY and we become that body as well.  A profound invitation.

What does that mean for you and me?  It means that we should take our places, side by side with all true believers, to make up the real, authentic Body of Christ on the earth!  That is a mystery.  But as we ponder it, we are awed by the privilege we have – to become like Jesus as we walk with all believers.

Our lives take on a lofty calling.  Listen to Paul.  From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.  So simple, so profound!