The Church Is To Edify

The Church Is To Edify

Introduction

1. Today I would like for us to discuss "The Church Is To Edify."

2. This is a very vital part of the mission of the church.

3. A church that neglects or forgets its mission of edification will be weak and may disappear.

Term Defined

1. The word "edify" means "to build up, strengthen."

2. As Christians, we are in the business of building up and strengthening one another.

Why Is Edification So Important?

1. Knowledge is essential to salvation. (Jno. 8:32; Eph. 5:17).

2. Christians who are edified are more effective and enthusiastic.

3. Christians who are weak in knowledge and strength are more likely to become discouraged and effective and may fall away from faith.

What Are Some Ways We Can Build One Another Up?

1. Bible Classes

What can we do to make our classes more edifying?

Some answers

More Bible content and practical application

Opportunities to use knowledge

2. Preaching (1 Tim. 4:1,2).

3. Speaking words of encouragement (Heb. 3:13).

4. Looking for the good in others

We often see what we are looking for in others.

Let's look for good in others and be quick to praise it.

5. Providing opportunities to serve

Service builds up.

Those who lead should encourage everyone to serve and become involved in the Lord's work.

6. Keeping our services scriptural and inspiring

We should strive to keep our services both scriptural and refreshing.

Services all intended not only to praise God, but "edify". (1 Cor. 14:4,5,12,17,26).

7. Devotionals

Home

Church

Out in nature

8. The assembly (Heb.10:24,25).

Singing & prayers

Be positive and warmly greeting one another

The writer of Hebrews looked upon the assembly as being vital to one's spiritual welfare.

9. Kindness

Ephesians 4:32

Harshness and lack of mercy destroy others - not build them up.

10. Support groups

Alcohol

Drugs

Many members of the church have personal problems with drugs and alcohol or have friends or family members with addictions. It is vital that they receive strength and support from Christians.

11. Visitation

There are innumerable visits of all kinds that need to be made.

Caring visits from Christians edify.

12. Bearing one another burdens (Gal. 6:1,2).

How To Get Started

1. Remember a better world begins with me.

2. Encourage leaders to emphasize and develop edification programs.

3. Do not be a slave to programs.

Programs come and go.

Programs have ups and downs.

Even if there is not a program or a good program, we must constantly work to build ourselves and others up.

Conclusion

1. It is vital that Christians be busy "edifying one another."

2. The salvation, influence and growth of the church depends on edification.