Summary: This is a message that deals with church growth

“TO BE BUILT UP OR EDIFIED IN THE FATITH”

Text: Col.3: 16-4:6 W. Max Alderman

Introduction: To be edified or "built up" in the faith requires that a man be filled with the spirit and obedient to the Word. In reality a person cannot be filled with the spirit who is not obedient to the Word.

I. Edification requires a dependence upon Scripture. (V. 3:16a)

A. For one to be rich in wisdom. (V. 3:16a)

B. For one to be right in the Word. (V. 3:16a)

II. Edification results in delightfulness in singing. (Vv. 3:16b-17)

A. This kind of singing causes the heart to be taught. (V. 3:16b)

B. This kind of singing causes the heart to be tender. (V. 3:16b)

C. This kind of singing causes the heart to be thankful. (V. 3:17)

III. Edification results in direction by submitting. (Vv.. 3:18-21)

A. Submitting produces control as needed in your relationships. (V. 3:18)

B. Submitting produces charity as needed in your relationships. (V. 3:19)

C. Submitting produces chastening as needed in your relationships. (Vv. 3:20-21)

IV. Edification results in dutifulness in serving. (Vv.3:22-24)

A. Service ought to be done consistently as unto Christ. (V. 22)

B. Service ought to be done conscientiously as unto Christ. (V. 23)

C. Service ought to be done with commitment as unto Christ. (V. 24)

V. Edification results in a difference in speaking. (Vv. 4:1-6)

A. Speak differently unto servants. (Vv. 1-2)

B. Speak differently as servants. (Vv. 3-6)

1. Speak of the grace of God. (Vv. 3-5)

2. Speak with the grace of God. (V. 6)

Note: The difference is a language that is different from the world.

Conclusion: A person who is truly edified will witness forth that fact by his right relationships with his different relationships.