Wind & Fire - ReflectionsSample

Written by Javier De La Rosa - Discipleship Minister at City on a Hill Melbourne

“And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. 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 4:11-16 (ESV)

God’s design for our formation has always been communal. In Ephesians 4, Paul shows us that maturity in Christ is not something we achieve alone, but something God grows in us through the church. Christ gives gifts to His people, leaders, teachers, shepherds, not to elevate a few, but to equip all the saints for the work of ministry.

The Holy Spirit uses these gifts to build up the body, shaping us toward unity and maturity. As we are taught, encouraged, corrected, and loved, we are slowly formed into people who reflect Christ more clearly. Formation happens as truth is spoken in love, as gifts are exercised faithfully, and as each member contributes what God has supplied.

Paul’s vision is of a living body, joined together and held firm by Christ Himself. When every part is working properly, growth follows, not chaos or competition, but stability, depth, and love. The Spirit forms us together, protecting us from spiritual immaturity and drawing us toward the fullness of life found in Jesus.

This means that showing up matters. Participating matters. Using your gifts for the good of others is one of the primary ways God shapes you into Christ’s likeness. The church is not merely a place we attend; it is the context in which God forms us for His glory.

Reflect:

Based on today’s reading:

How is the Holy Spirit inviting me to respond today, for God’s glory and the good of others?

Pray:

Lord Jesus, thank You for giving Your church the gifts it needs to grow. Help me to receive what You are teaching me and to faithfully use the gifts You have given me for the good of others. By Your Spirit, form us into a united and mature body that reflects Your glory. Amen.