Christ's Purpose in Giving Gifts

Ephesians 4:13-16 Christ’s Purpose in Giving Gifts I. The object of the building up of the body of Christ (v. 13) A. Unity 1. Of the faith 2. Of the knowledge of the Son of God B. Maturity C. Fullness II. The result of the building up of the body of Christ (v. 14) A. Expressed negatively – no longer immature 1. Tossed to and fro 2. Carried about by every wind of doctrine a. Through trickery b. Through cunning 3. Deceived B. Expressed positively – maturity (v. 15) 1. The means a. Speak truthfully b. Speak lovingly 2. The end a. We grow up b. Into Him 1) the head 2) even Christ c. In all things III. The power behind the building up of the body of Christ (v. 16) A. The person of the power – Christ B. The plan behind the power 1. The whole body together… a. In its unity… 1) Fitted together 2) Held together b. And diversity… c. Working together… 2. Grows the body to maturity… 3. Through love. 1