Edification

The job of edification is for everyone.

““The one who prophesies speaks to people for edification, exhortation, and consolation […] All things are to be done for edification.”—1 Corinthians 14:3, 26 NASB

Unity can be fragile and easily destroyed when people think about themselves first, when they forget that everything is a gift from God, when they become competitive and think of other Christians as rivals, or when they enter into a spirit of comparison or jealousy.

Paul urges us to think of ourselves in the context of the body of Christ—remembering that we’re all part of the same body and recognizing how much we need each other. Yes, there are “varieties of gifts” (1 Corinthians 12:4), but there is only one Spirit and one body.

Paul emphasizes the importance of the body by using the word “edification” four times in 1 Corinthians 14. This word focuses on the importance of “building up” the body—doing what it takes to make the body stronger and more unified in order to increase its impact.

Each of us has a vital role to play in this process of edification. We all are part of the same body, and we all have something to contribute. We should “seek to excel” in our individual roles, because this will encourage “the edification of the church.” It will bless others, advance the Kingdom, and please the Lord.

Today, remember that your time, talents, and treasures are all gifts from God. Seek to edify others and build up the body. You have been blessed so that you can be a blessing!

Reflection Question: How can you encourage someone today?