Ephesians 4:15
Verse
Context
Unity in the Body
14Then we will no longer be infants, tossed about by the waves and carried around by every wind of teaching and by the clever cunning of men in their deceitful scheming.15Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ Himself, who is the head.16From Him the whole body, fitted and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love through the work of each individual part.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But, speaking the truth in love - The truth recommended by the apostle is the whole system of Gospel doctrine; this they are to teach and preach, and this is opposed to the deceit mentioned above. This truth, as it is the doctrine of God's eternal love to mankind, must be preached in love. Scolding and abuse from the pulpit or press, in matters of religion, are truly monstrous. He who has the truth of God has no need of any means to defend or propagate it, but those which love to God and man provides. Grow up into him - This is a continuance of the metaphor taken from the members of a human body receiving nourishment equally and growing up, each in its due proportion to other parts, and to the body in general. The truth of God should be so preached to all the members of the Church of God, that they may all receive an increase of grace and life; so that each, in whatever state he may be, may get forward in the way of truth and holiness. In the Church of Christ there are persons in various states: the careless, the penitent, the lukewarm, the tempted, the diffident, the little child, the young man, and the father. He who has got a talent for the edification of only one of those classes should not stay long in a place, else the whole body cannot grow up in all things under his ministry.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
speaking the truth--Translate, "holding the truth"; "following the truth"; opposed to "error" or "deceit" (Eph 4:14). in love--"Truth" is never to be sacrificed to so-called "charity"; yet it is to be maintained in charity. Truth in word and act, love in manner and spirit, are the Christian's rule (compare Eph 4:21, Eph 4:24). grow up--from the state of "children" to that of "full-grown men." There is growth only in the spiritually alive, not in the dead. into him--so as to be more and more incorporated with Him, and become one with Him. the head-- (Eph 1:22).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But speaking the truth in love,.... Either Christ himself, who is the truth, and is to be preached, and always spoken of with strong affection and love; or the Gospel, the word of truth, so called in opposition to that which is false and fictitious; and also to the law, which is shadowish; and on account of its author, the God of truth, and its subject matter, Christ, and the several doctrines of grace; and because the spirit of truth has dictated it, and does direct to it, and owns and blesses it: this, with respect to the ministers of the Gospel, should be spoken openly, honestly, and sincerely, and in love to the souls of men, and in a way consistent with love, in opposition to the secret, ensnaring, and pernicious ways of false teachers; and with respect to private Christians, as they are to receive it in love, so to speak of it to one another from a principle of love, and an affectionate concern for each other's welfare, to the end that they may grow up into him in all things which is the head, even "Christ": the work of grace upon the soul is a gradual work, and an increase of this in the exercise of faith, hope, love, and spiritual knowledge, is a growth; and this is a growth in all things, in all grace, as in those mentioned, so in others, as humility, patience, self-denial, resignation of the will to the will of God, and especially the knowledge of Christ; for it is a growing into him, from whom souls receive all their grace and increase of it; for he is the head of influence to supply them, as well as the head of eminence to protect them; see Eph 1:22 and now the preaching of the Gospel, or the sincere speaking of the truth, is the instrumental means of such growth.
Ephesians 4:15
Unity in the Body
14Then we will no longer be infants, tossed about by the waves and carried around by every wind of teaching and by the clever cunning of men in their deceitful scheming.15Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ Himself, who is the head.16From Him the whole body, fitted and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love through the work of each individual part.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Man's Petty Kingdom
By Art Katz19K43:46DenominationsDEU 11:22JOS 3:3MAT 6:33JHN 1:17ACT 2:42EPH 4:15In this sermon, the speaker begins by acknowledging his role as a messenger of God and emphasizes the importance of radical choosing and repentance. He highlights the two categories of people at the Jordan: those who are curious or indifferent and those who are broken and contrite, longing to be joined with God. The speaker emphasizes the need for a radical descent into death and separation from selfishness, ambition, and worldly desires. He references the story of Joshua and the crossing of the Jordan as a call to choice and obedience to God's leading. The sermon concludes with a mention of a critical time at the Jordan when God called the people to choice and the importance of following the ark of the covenant as a guide.
Taking Time to Wait on God - Part 2
By Derek Prince14K33:19PSA 118:13MAT 6:33JHN 15:4ROM 8:14EPH 4:15COL 2:19HEB 12:6In this sermon, the speaker discusses the four main functions of a head in relation to the body. The first function is to receive input, where every part of the body has the right to communicate with the head. The second function is to make decisions, as the head decides what the body is to do. The third function is to initiate action, emphasizing the importance of taking the initiative. Lastly, the head coordinates the activity of the members to carry out its decisions. The speaker also highlights the significance of our relationship with Jesus and the church, emphasizing the need to dwell in His presence and rely on Him for growth and effective functioning. The sermon references Ephesians 4:15-16 to emphasize the dependence of the body on the head for growth and edification.
Rivers of Living Water
By Bill McLeod7.2K46:21Personal RevivalPSA 85:10JHN 7:31JHN 7:37EPH 4:15In this sermon, the speaker uses a scenario to illustrate the state of people's lives and minds. He describes a field with a flowing fountain representing life and mind. Several trucks with names like "anger," "laziness," "lust," and "covetousness" come and dump their loads into the fountain, causing it to gradually decrease in height. The speaker emphasizes the importance of the church as God's channel for blessing the world and expresses concern about the current state of evangelical circles. The sermon references Proverbs 5 and the Song of Solomon 4:12 to highlight the need for the church to be open and flowing with the Holy Spirit.
(Pdf Book) the Spirit of Truth
By Art Katz5.8K00:00EbooksTruthAuthenticity in FaithPRO 20:17JHN 7:16JHN 14:6ACT 5:11CO 2:1EPH 4:15PHP 2:31TI 3:152JN 1:3REV 21:2Art Katz emphasizes the critical importance of truth in the Church, arguing that the institution has become inauthentic and predictable due to a lack of genuine commitment to truth. He reflects on the necessity of aligning one's spirit with the words spoken, as true truth must be lived out in every aspect of life. Katz warns against the dangers of hypocrisy and the spirit of lies, urging believers to embrace the Spirit of Truth to transform their lives and the Church. He calls for a radical commitment to truth, which is essential for experiencing the fullness of God's grace and power. Ultimately, Katz encourages a return to a humble, authentic faith that reflects the character of Christ.
Gospel Healing for Hurting Marriages
By Voddie Baucham5.7K48:39Marriage ProblemsEPH 4:11EPH 4:15EPH 4:25EPH 4:32EPH 5:31In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of people coming to church when they are facing difficulties in their closest relationships. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the difference between right believing (orthodoxy) and right behaving (orthopraxy). The first three chapters of Ephesians focus on salvation and what Christ has done, while the last three chapters focus on how to live in light of that salvation. The speaker encourages the audience to walk in a manner worthy of their calling, urging them to consider their conduct in Christ.
(Sermon Preparation) Lecture 02
By Alan Redpath5.4K26:28Sermon PreparationPSA 37:23PRO 3:5MAT 6:33JHN 8:32EPH 4:152TI 2:15JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of embracing one's own individuality when preaching and proclaiming the gospel. He highlights that the New Testament writers had different styles, and therefore, each preacher should be themselves and not try to copy others. The speaker emphasizes that the gospel is communicated through individuals, and it is important to avoid becoming carbon copies of others. He warns against the tendency to repress one's personality and urges listeners to avoid copying others, as it is the worst form of flattery.
The Revolution of Love (Reading)
By George Verwer4.5K00:00Audio BooksPRO 3:5MAT 6:33ROM 12:21CO 13:4EPH 4:15PHP 4:13JAS 3:13In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of distributing Christian leaflets in a one-day campaign. Despite already distributing a large number of leaflets, the speaker and a few volunteers decided to continue distributing more late at night. The speaker emphasizes the desperate state of the world, with millions of people suffering and dying without knowing the love of God. The speaker challenges the audience to examine their own love for others and their willingness to serve and sacrifice for them. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the importance of spiritual balance and growth in the Christian faith.
Gleanings From the Garden - Part 1
By Art Katz3.6K1:16:42Garden Of EdenPSA 41:9PRO 27:6MAT 7:211CO 5:6EPH 4:152TI 3:51PE 4:17In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of engaging in conversations with students at a university. The speaker emphasizes the importance of engaging in discussions about ultimate questions and values. The sermon also touches on the influence of media and the need to be discerning about what we consume. The speaker highlights the prophetic dilemma of having to confront and offend, but also emphasizes the universal nature of the condition that needs to be addressed in contemporary Christendom.
(Biographies) John Newton
By John Piper3.1K1:34:52PSA 19:1MAT 6:33MAT 27:46ROM 1:16EPH 4:152TI 2:24JAS 1:19In this sermon, the preacher reflects on his experience of witnessing an eclipse of the moon and relates it to the darkness that Jesus experienced on the cross. He emphasizes the importance of illustrating truth in concrete language and not abstracting or generalizing, as this can lead to boredom and spiritual death. The preacher then discusses the challenge of bringing light into people's darkness, using the analogy of a two-watt light bulb in a dark room. He urges the congregation to examine whether they are more inclined towards tenderness or toughness and encourages them to focus on obedience in the midst of life's complexities.
Finishing the Course - 01 Staying Within Our Boundaries
By Zac Poonen3.0K57:41Spiritual GrowthBoundaries in ChristFinishing WellGEN 2:8EPH 4:15COL 1:24Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of growing in all aspects of our Christian life and staying within the boundaries God has set for us. He warns against the dangers of complacency and becoming busybodies in others' matters, which can hinder our spiritual growth. Poonen uses the analogy of a child coloring outside the lines to illustrate how we often neglect our own responsibilities while getting involved in things that do not concern us. He encourages believers to focus on fulfilling God's specific calling for their lives and to avoid distractions that lead us outside our designated boundaries. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to finish the course God has set for each of us, reflecting on the need for humility and obedience in our walk with Christ.
(Basics) 37. Jesus Valued All People
By Zac Poonen2.5K13:06MAT 6:33MAT 23:27MAT 23:33JHN 1:141CO 13:1EPH 4:15EPH 5:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of balancing grace and truth in our lives, using the example of Jesus as the perfect model. He compares the need for bones in our physical bodies to the need for balance in our spiritual lives. The speaker highlights the significance of loving and valuing all people, regardless of their social status or appearance, as they are made in the image of God. He emphasizes Jesus' love for humanity, which led him to willingly sacrifice his life to free people from sin. This love gave Jesus the authority to speak against sin with conviction.
Effective Prayer - Part 1
By William MacDonald2.3K28:36Effectual PrayerPSA 30:5PRO 15:1PRO 18:21MAT 6:33EPH 4:15EPH 4:29JAS 1:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of commenting on the answers we receive after asking questions. He highlights the joy that comes from someone sharing a thought that adds depth to the conversation. The speaker also mentions the significance of speaking the truth in love, referencing Ephesians 4:15. Additionally, he discusses the key of expecting meaningful conversations and the need to consciously think about our words. The sermon encourages taking the initiative in asking meaningful questions, being a good listener, and being mindful of the impact of our communication.
The Peculiar Sleep of the Beloved
By C.H. Spurgeon1.7K43:34PSA 127:2MAT 10:32JHN 5:39GAL 6:7EPH 4:151TH 4:132TI 3:16The sermon transcript discusses the consequences of dying unprepared, unconverted, and unsaved. It emphasizes the fear of judgment and fiery indignation for those who do not have a relationship with God. However, the sermon also offers hope to believers, assuring them that they need not fear death. The speaker encourages Christians to embrace the knowledge of the Savior's name and look forward to meeting in heaven. The sermon concludes with a question, asking the audience if they truly believe they belong to the beloved mentioned in the text.
Four Things to Flee From
By Zac Poonen1.6K1:01:47EPH 4:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of fleeing from idolatry, immorality, and the love of money. It highlights the need to prioritize Christ's preeminence in all aspects of life, to run from self-worship, and to focus on glorifying Jesus rather than seeking personal recognition or honor. The message encourages a shift towards selfless living, humility, and a deep commitment to following Christ's example.
Standing Against Misunderstandings
By David Rubio1.6K1:18:42Exposing False DoctrinesMAT 6:33ROM 12:21CO 15:58EPH 4:15PHP 4:82TI 3:16JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker addresses four misconceptions of the Christian life that can lead believers astray. The first misconception is that the Word of God can change, but the speaker emphasizes that its principles remain constant. The second misconception is that if a believer is facing problems, they are unspiritual. However, the speaker points to Philippians 4:8-9, which shows that even true Christians face troubles but are not distressed, in despair, forsaken, or destroyed. The speaker warns against trying to find loopholes in God's principles by renaming things, and encourages believers to allow the Spirit of God to convict and guide them in specific areas of their lives.
Lies Women Believe and the Truths That Set Them Free
By Nancy Leigh DeMoss1.5K1:30:16PSA 119:29ISA 55:8EPH 4:15EPH 4:25This sermon focuses on acknowledging God as our teacher and the source of truth that sets us free. It emphasizes seeking God's face, thanking Him for His wisdom in creating male and female, and the importance of conforming to God's image. The speaker highlights the need to align our thoughts with God's Word to shape our beliefs and identity, rather than being influenced by worldly views. The message also addresses the misconception that God's ways are restrictive and the importance of prioritizing God's transformation of our hearts over solving problems.
Zion
By Milton Green1.4K04:56MAT 6:33JHN 8:32JHN 14:6ROM 3:23EPH 4:152TI 3:161PE 1:23In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of repentance and having a genuine love for the truth. He warns against relying on religious traditions and doctrines that do not align with God's word. The preacher also highlights the role of the powers of darkness in promoting teachings that do not conform to godliness. He emphasizes the significance of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, which provides a place for repentance and forgiveness of sins. The sermon emphasizes the need to turn away from criticism, hatred, and worldly practices, and instead, focus on the blood of Jesus for healing and transformation.
Fathers, Bring Them Up in the Discipline and Instruction of the Lord
By John Piper1.4K51:36EXO 20:12PRO 22:6MAT 6:33ROM 8:15EPH 4:15EPH 6:1HEB 9:26In this sermon, Johnny Piper reflects on the lessons he learned from his father's preaching. He emphasizes the importance of being transformed and obedient in the Christian faith. He also discusses the balance between speaking the truth in love and not using Bible doctrine to beat people up. Piper shares how his father's absence due to ministry work made him realize the reality of hell and the urgency of spreading the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. Overall, the sermon highlights the preciousness of life, the need for trust in God, and the mission to spread a passion for the supremacy of God.
Three Stages of Spiritual Growth - Part 3
By Zac Poonen1.3K10:17EPH 4:15This sermon emphasizes the transition from being spiritual children who only receive blessings from God to becoming spiritual fathers and mothers who give and bless others. It challenges believers to move from a mindset of constant receiving to one of giving and being a blessing to those around them, highlighting the importance of spiritual growth and maturity in the Christian walk.
Three Stages of Spiritual Growth - Part 4
By Zac Poonen1.2K09:13ACT 20:351CO 13:11EPH 4:151JN 2:13REV 3:20This sermon emphasizes the importance of allowing Jesus into every area of our lives, particularly our minds, to use our abilities and resources for His kingdom. It challenges believers to move from being spiritual children who only receive blessings to becoming spiritual fathers and mothers who give sacrificially and bless others. The message highlights the choice we have in either remaining self-focused or embracing the responsibilities and blessings of spiritual maturity.
Book Review
By George Verwer1.1K1:11:04Book ReviewsPSA 119:105PRO 4:7EPH 4:152TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 1:221PE 2:2The video is a summary of a book called "Discipleship" by William McDonald. The book aims to present principles of New Testament discipleship and emphasizes the practicality of these principles in the modern age. McDonald acknowledges the impact of a group of young believers who demonstrated the effectiveness of these principles in their lives. The video also mentions other influential books like "Through Gates of Splendor" and "Grace Awakening" that complement the teachings of "Discipleship." Overall, the video encourages readers to embrace the Savior's terms of discipleship and make the best use of their time in pursuing spiritual maturity.
Living Like Christ Lived (Kannada)
By Zac Poonen1.1K58:10PRO 3:5JHN 16:14JHN 17:3JHN 21:25ROM 5:101CO 13:11GAL 5:22EPH 4:15HEB 5:12JUD 1:3This sermon emphasizes the importance of moving beyond a focus solely on Christ's death on the cross to also understanding and embodying His life on earth. It highlights the need to be led by the Holy Spirit to live a Christ-like life, showing love, humility, and patience in all situations. The speaker encourages believers to grow beyond being spiritual babies, to be mature and loving individuals who reflect Jesus in their daily interactions.
K-516 a Prophetic Scenario (2 of 2)
By Art Katz1.1K46:36PropheticJER 1:9MAT 10:16MAT 16:24MAT 24:351CO 9:161CO 13:2EPH 4:15In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience of being reproached for going over the allotted time for his message. He explains that he received a note to finish his sermon in 45 minutes, but due to blurred vision, he misunderstood and believed it said 45 minutes. Despite facing criticism and being labeled as independent, the speaker prays for the message to be imbued with the spirit of truth and hopes that it will help others understand the call of God, the creative and prophetic word, and the obedience required as sons of God. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the importance of death and resurrection in the church and in Israel's restoration, stating that just as Jesus had to taste death to birth the church, Israel too must go through death and resurrection.
Silence, Inwardness, and "Love Unto All the Saints"
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.1K39:58SilenceMAT 25:40EPH 1:17EPH 4:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of love among believers. He references the early Christians who were willing to die for one another, as a demonstration of their love. The preacher highlights the need for repentance and a realization of our spiritual poverty. He urges the congregation to come to Jesus with hunger and wakefulness, warning that without a deep connection to Christ, the church will spiritually die. The preacher also shares a personal story of a soldier who experienced a revival through fervent prayer. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the transformative power of love and the need for a genuine relationship with Jesus.
Peacemakers
By George Verwer1.0K35:48PeacemakersPRO 11:14MAT 5:9JHN 4:23ROM 12:18EPH 4:15PHP 2:31TH 5:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of tailoring the message of the word of God to different cultures. He mentions the Prosperity Code and extremism in America, contrasting it with the mentality in India where the focus is on accomplishing the work without seeking credit. The speaker also discusses the tension between Mr. Hard Work and Mr. Work is Hard, highlighting the need for teamwork and allowing others to share in speaking. Lastly, he mentions the importance of consolidation and prioritizing goals in order to avoid unnecessary stress and tension.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But, speaking the truth in love - The truth recommended by the apostle is the whole system of Gospel doctrine; this they are to teach and preach, and this is opposed to the deceit mentioned above. This truth, as it is the doctrine of God's eternal love to mankind, must be preached in love. Scolding and abuse from the pulpit or press, in matters of religion, are truly monstrous. He who has the truth of God has no need of any means to defend or propagate it, but those which love to God and man provides. Grow up into him - This is a continuance of the metaphor taken from the members of a human body receiving nourishment equally and growing up, each in its due proportion to other parts, and to the body in general. The truth of God should be so preached to all the members of the Church of God, that they may all receive an increase of grace and life; so that each, in whatever state he may be, may get forward in the way of truth and holiness. In the Church of Christ there are persons in various states: the careless, the penitent, the lukewarm, the tempted, the diffident, the little child, the young man, and the father. He who has got a talent for the edification of only one of those classes should not stay long in a place, else the whole body cannot grow up in all things under his ministry.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
speaking the truth--Translate, "holding the truth"; "following the truth"; opposed to "error" or "deceit" (Eph 4:14). in love--"Truth" is never to be sacrificed to so-called "charity"; yet it is to be maintained in charity. Truth in word and act, love in manner and spirit, are the Christian's rule (compare Eph 4:21, Eph 4:24). grow up--from the state of "children" to that of "full-grown men." There is growth only in the spiritually alive, not in the dead. into him--so as to be more and more incorporated with Him, and become one with Him. the head-- (Eph 1:22).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But speaking the truth in love,.... Either Christ himself, who is the truth, and is to be preached, and always spoken of with strong affection and love; or the Gospel, the word of truth, so called in opposition to that which is false and fictitious; and also to the law, which is shadowish; and on account of its author, the God of truth, and its subject matter, Christ, and the several doctrines of grace; and because the spirit of truth has dictated it, and does direct to it, and owns and blesses it: this, with respect to the ministers of the Gospel, should be spoken openly, honestly, and sincerely, and in love to the souls of men, and in a way consistent with love, in opposition to the secret, ensnaring, and pernicious ways of false teachers; and with respect to private Christians, as they are to receive it in love, so to speak of it to one another from a principle of love, and an affectionate concern for each other's welfare, to the end that they may grow up into him in all things which is the head, even "Christ": the work of grace upon the soul is a gradual work, and an increase of this in the exercise of faith, hope, love, and spiritual knowledge, is a growth; and this is a growth in all things, in all grace, as in those mentioned, so in others, as humility, patience, self-denial, resignation of the will to the will of God, and especially the knowledge of Christ; for it is a growing into him, from whom souls receive all their grace and increase of it; for he is the head of influence to supply them, as well as the head of eminence to protect them; see Eph 1:22 and now the preaching of the Gospel, or the sincere speaking of the truth, is the instrumental means of such growth.