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Book of Ephesians - Chapter 4 - Verse 15

4:15
But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:

Meaning

It is important to understand the context of Ephesians 4:15 to fully grasp its meaning. In this verse, the Apostle Paul is encouraging believers to speak the truth in love. This means that when sharing the gospel or engaging in discussions about faith, it should be done with compassion, kindness, and respect. By speaking the truth in love, believers can help each other grow spiritually and become more like Christ.

The goal of speaking the truth in love is to help believers mature in their faith and become more like Jesus. As Christians grow in their relationship with Christ, they should strive to emulate His character and values in all aspects of their lives. By following Christ's example and allowing His teachings to shape their thoughts and actions, believers can become more like Him and experience true spiritual growth.

Ultimately, the verse emphasizes the importance of love and truth in Christian communication. By speaking the truth in a loving and respectful manner, believers can build each other up, strengthen their faith, and become more like Christ. This verse serves as a reminder to approach discussions about faith with love, humility, and a desire for spiritual growth.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of the verse 'But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:' highlights the importance of combining both truth and love in our speech and actions. This verse emphasizes the necessity of not only sharing the truth but doing so with love and compassion. By speaking the truth in love, believers are encouraged to mature spiritually and grow closer to Christ, who is the ultimate example of love and truth. The act of speaking the truth in love not only benefits the individual but also contributes to the unity and growth of the entire body of believers. Through this practice, Christians can strive to be more like Christ, who embodies both truth and love perfectly.

A word study of the verse can provide additional insights into the original Greek words used in the passage. For example, the term 'speaking' can also be translated as 'living out' or 'practicing.' This suggests that embodying the truth in our everyday lives is just as important as verbal communication. The word 'grow up' implies a continuous process of spiritual growth and maturity, indicating that becoming more like Christ is a journey that requires ongoing effort and commitment. By understanding the nuances of the original language, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the richness and depth of the message conveyed in this verse.

American Standard Version

but speaking truth in love, we may grow up in all things into him, who is the head, [even] Christ;
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