Last week we focused on the word “rather” in Ephesians 4:15-16. Instead of not speaking truth or speaking truth in an unloving way, we are to choose the third way: followers of Jesus are to speak the truth in love.

Jesus is the head of His church—we are His body. The concept of body is spiritualized here, but the physical use of our body is also an important part of our faith. From time to time, some have claimed only our spirit matters. Therefore, we can do whatever we want with our bodies. This is referred to as “Gnosticism.” The Greek word “gnosis” means “to know.” An “agnostic” is someone who does not know. Paul wrote strong words about the use of the body to the churches. Our message emphasizes “rather” (don’t live by what a secular worldview says) with the conclusion—“make the body grow … in love.”