Imagine trying to climb Mount Everest all alone—no guide, no team, and no backup. In May 2025, speed climber Tyler Andrews attempted this feat but had to stop after several setbacks like gear failure and exhaustion. Despite his skills and support from Sherpas, he realized one thing clearly: even the strongest need others.
Our spiritual journey is no different. We’re made for connection—a place where we feel accepted, understood, and supported. But beyond just feeling connected, we need relationships that encourage us to grow deeper in Christ. Without this kind of community, it’s easy to slip back into old habits and stop growing.
Paul’s letter to the Ephesians gives us a clear picture of how this growth happens—not alone, but together. In Ephesians 4:17–5:2, Paul moves from talking about who we are in Christ to how that identity should change the way we live with others. Spiritual maturity happens in community.
Two Key Ways to Build Each Other Up
1. Remind One Another of Who We Are in Christ (Ephesians 4:17-24)
Paul challenges believers to leave behind their old ways of thinking—marked by ignorance and hardness of heart—and instead live as people renewed by Christ. This isn’t just a personal transformation; it’s something we need to encourage in each other.
In life groups or communities, helping one another remember our identity in Christ is vital. We are not defined by past mistakes or old patterns but by the new life God has given us. Through encouragement and accountability, we help each other live out this renewed identity—holy, renewed, and created to be like God.
2. Relate to One Another Based on Who We Are in Christ (Ephesians 4:25–5:2)
Knowing who we are is just the start. This new identity should shape how we treat each other daily. Paul moves from identity to action—calling us to speak truthfully, resolve conflict without sin, share generously, and use words to build up rather than tear down.
It means being kind, tenderhearted, and quick to forgive—just as God forgave us. In our communities, this looks like honesty balanced with grace, loving confrontation when needed, and always aiming to reflect Jesus’ love.
When we live out these practices, we don’t just help each other grow—we show the world what Christ’s love looks like.
Why This Matters
So how do we build up one another? By reminding each other of our new identity in Christ and relating to each other based on that identity. When we do this, our communities become places of grace, growth, and love.
Transformation isn’t just about what happens inside us—it happens in our relationships too. Together, we thrive.
Practical Steps for Your Community This Week
Remind someone of their worth in Christ. A simple word of encouragement can make a big difference.
Choose to love like Jesus. Whether through forgiveness or kindness, extend grace.
Engage deeply in your life group. Don’t just attend—build up others through honest conversation and prayer.
Questions for Reflection or Group Discussion
What “old self” habits still try to influence your life? How can your community help you put on your “new self”?
How can your life group be more intentional about reminding each other of your identity in Christ?
Which relational practice from Ephesians 4:25–5:2 is most challenging for you? How can your group support growth in this area?
Let’s commit to building each other up—one conversation, one act of kindness, one prayer at a time. Because together in Christ, we grow stronger.