April 27, 2021
Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. Ephesians 4:15-16 ESV
“Speaking the truth in love” is one of those biblical memes that is often taken out of context to set someone straight who has irritated or hurt us or someone we love. In context, Paul is referring to lovingly confronting others to build up the body of Christ—not tear it down. This will only happen if we first spend time in prayer remembering our propensity to sin and then seeking God’s perspective of the situation. Sadly, and all too often, we rush into a confrontation under the guise of speaking the truth in love all the while driven by fear or anger. But when we speak the truth in love from a heart of compassion and humility the body of Christ will flourish.
Rev. Gordon Green, M.Div., M.A. Counseling
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