The assembly must edify one another

Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers (Ephesians 4:29)

Therefore comfort each other and edify one another…pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all (1 Thessalonians 5:11, 15)

These verses teach that we are to build each other up. The Greek word for edify (oikodomé) means “to build.” It’s the same word for building a house. We build up the house – the assembly – through mutual edification.

The assembly is the place where you should be finding your encouragement and comfort, because the assembly is your spiritual family, your spiritual and heavenly house. Just as you share things with your families at home and you help one another, so it is to be in the assembly.

How do we edify one another? Edification can occur in many ways. It includes giving thanks to someone for things they do for the church. It includes complimenting each other, praising someone’s good works, or encouraging people in specific callings they have. Words like that impart grace. They let the person know that you care and that they are making a difference. It is important in any family unit to know that you are a valued member – no less than in the church family! Find ways to thank and compliment your assembly-members.

Edification includes lifting someone up when they are in despair. Imagine that you go to worship and ask someone, “How are you?” They respond honestly: “Things haven’t been so good.” In that moment, they need to be uplifted and you have the opportunity to speak words of comfort to them. How can you do that quickly and easily?

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