Day 9: that we would be grounded and not tossed to and fro
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. (Ephesians 4:14 ESV)
It is easy for churches to get tossed to and fro and carried about by every wind of doctrine. If you don’t believe me check the clearance aisle at your local Christian book store. We love to chase fads looking for a talisman to reach people and ignite our churches. It seldom works.
What is interesting is that God has already given us the remedy for being grounded. If you look at the logic and order in this verse we see first that God gives the church leaders to equip the saints for the work of ministry. And then as the saints do ministry alongside one another we grow in Christ-likeness (4:13). The result of this being built up is our not being tossed to and fro. But instead (4:15) we are speaking the truth in love to one another and being built up in Christ. Our answer, then, isn’t to develop a new fad to help us not be tossed to and fro—our answer is simply and faithfully do life together.
Lord, you have given us everything we need for life and godliness. You have equipped your church to do what you have called her to do. Let us have faith in your power and your word and not flit away our time pursuing the latest fad. Keep us grounded in your provision. Forgive us for the times we go about chasing the wind. Thank you for loving us through our wandering. Anchor us in You. Amen.
